Best of Boston

Shorn of design hype, Zimman’s simply has the broadest selection of upholstery and drapery fabrics in the metro region. By buying directly from mills, Zimman’s offers tapestries, jacquards, chintzes, and damasks that escape the usual designer portfolios, freeing would-be redecorators from slavishly following whatever Ralph or Martha has dictated will be this year’s look. Self-service means no pressure as browsers wander and ponder nearly a million yards of cloth. The staff cheerfully helps calculate yardage and will even supply a short list of local upholsterers and drapery stitchers.