Joann's prices the fabric higher so that you feel you are getting a 'deal' with a coupon or a sale since they know most of those who buy a lot of fabric wait for the sales.
I DO use Joann's quilter's fabric (on a sale) for tied quilts or wall hangings or 'general' gifts. I save the quiltshop fabric for projects for myself or gifts for family and friends or swaps. I don't hesitate to use Joann's fabrics for children's quilts because kid's tastes' change every 3 or 4 years as they age. Note: I use quilt shop 'scraps' to make quilts for hospitalized kids as the quilts often become part of the family's therapy. I want them to last.
Don't beat yourself up. If you can't afford the higher prices of quilt shop fabric, my suggestion is to buy only when there is a sale OR simply make fewer quilts and enjoy your higher quality materials. Alternatively, just choose to save for it. Lots of quilters in my area use the sales primarily to buy backing only.
Last edited by IAmCatOwned; 10-04-2013 at 02:49 PM.