When buying quilting fabric just because I like it and not for a particular project,how much should I buy?

Question

For instance if I see some fabric I really like and want to make sure I have plenty for a later project,how much should I buy(1/2yard 1yard)?

Answer 1

I usually buy 2 yards.  Sometimes if it is a big pattern or especially wonderful, I'll go for 3.

Answer 2

This is my theory on fabric buying....if I like it, I will get 1 yard; if I really like it, I will get 3 yards; and if I just can't live without it, I will get 5 yards. Hope this helps!

Answer 3

When I see a piece of fabric that I like yet do not need at this time, I pass it up UNLESS it's on clearance.  Should is be on clearance and it's a piece I like, I buy what's left on the bolt.

I have learned never to pay regular price for fabric unless I need it right then and there.  Reason being, it would go on clearance and here I would have it in my stash and paid regular price for it.

Oh when I say clearance that is them clearing it out or on sale 1/2 or more off.

Answer 4

Alas, the question that always arises - how much do I get?

It's easy to answer the question, when you consider what size of quilts you normally make AND what type of fabric is it?  For example, if you normally make bed-sized quilts AND the fabric is a large, focal point fabric, then get 3-5 yards for borders & use in the center.

If you make smaller lap-sized or crib quilts and it's a focal fabric, then get 1-3 yards for border, use in center, & binding.  

If it's a background fabric, then consider:

lap-sized quilts = 1-2 yds.

bed-sized quitls = 3-5 yds.

Plus if it's a fabric color that you seem to use frequently, then don't be afraid to get an extra 1/2 yd.  

Also you might want to know that fabrics from chain stores can usually be re-stocked again and again.  Fabrics in locally owned quilt shops have seasons and usually cannot be re-ordered.

And lastly, if it's on sale, get a little more still yet.  Why not?

Answer 5

As a rule when I buy fabric with no paticular pattern or project in mind I get 3 yards.  I figure with 3 yards I can make an outfit for one or more of my Grandmonsters, I can make a couple purses, or it will make several quilt blocks.  And you can always use the "scraps" in a little project of some kind such as an I spy quilt, a headband or scrunchies.  Hope this helps!  Good Luck!!

Answer 6

If you really like, buy a yard or two. That way it'll be harder to run out!

Answer 7

I wouldn't buy less than 2 yards, and that really isn't going to go far.  Consider what you will do with it.  In a quilt, will it be an accent piece?  Will you need it in the border, for binding, or in matching pillowcases?  If I really liked it, I'd buy at least 3-5 yards for a quilt. If it is for a smaller project, you can do with less.