feline fanatic

Hmm, sounds like you need to go to more or different shows. The big national shows do have some computer guided quilting but the lions share is still hand guided and the last AQS show I just attended 90% of the ribbons were on non computerized quilting. In fact the only ribbon I saw on a quilt that could be remotely considered computerized was one where it was all done with machine embroidery and that still takes some skill to execute. Edited to add that AQS still has a category for hand quilting and there were numerous handquilted quilts there too. In fact two hand quilted quilts were in the "best of" winners circle. One for hand quilting and one for best original design.

Some quilters use computer programs like EQ to design their quilts but it is a far cry from designing a quilt on a computer program and then executing it on your sewing machine.

Dodie, you sure brought back some memories. I too can remember when JC Penney had a fabric dept and also Woolworths!

tessagin

I use what's handy for a stiletto, Butter knife, skewer, craft (popsicle) stick. Old Tupperware citrus peeler. Not about to spend money on something I have a substitute to use.

SandySews

I don't drink, smoke, or have any vices that cost money except quilting. Most shops have a mark down section and I buy a lot of fabrics from those sections. I watch for JAF coupons and Hobby Lobby is always 30% off. I don't feel bad for what I spend since it's my form of enjoyment... My first husband spent a lot of money on fishing and hunting so I bought sewing stuff........ Our kids were taken care of first of course... My second hubby is a golfer....That's very expensive so I do not regret what I spend on quilting. After all I can't take a nickel with me when I leave this world.

SewingSew

Rennie, That sounds like the kind of thing I would have done.

Gerbie, I would have had an anxiety attack just thinking about cutting into that fabric!

Dodie, something tells me you have a mechanical sewing machine. I wouldn't want to be without my mechanical machines. They'll still be working long after the other ones are in a landfill. And if something goes wrong with them, it's not rocket science to fix them.

twinkie

As far as a stiletto, just wanted to let you know that I buy a package of wooden skewers in the housewares dept at WalMart. They make wonderful stilettos.

Onebyone

That isn't true of the bigger shows and $10 won't get you in the door anyways. LOL

TeresaA

It sounds like the fabric was either an import like Liberty's of London or maybe something from Australia. It could also be something in super wide yardage and intended as upholstery fabric?

I saw an article lamenting the shrinking quilting industry. I suspect if it is shrinking, price is a big part of that.

tessagin

Estate sales are a great source for fabric especially if it's a quilter's estate. I got 2 bags of batting 80/20 the other week for $5.00 Both queen size and unopened. Spoke with one woman who was interested in a Bernina that was for sale at 50% off since it was the last day. Looked down at a box that had attachments for it on another table. Gave it to her and said to check if they would give the attachments along with the machine. She got all for $25.00. I had my "test" kit with me. They let her plug it in and couple passes with the needle and my borrowed kit, sold. The manual was sitting with some magazines. They were going to charge her $5.00 for it till I opened my big mouth and said that should be part of the deal since it is the original with the machine and was probably included in the original purchase. Felt like I did my good deed for the day. I did pretty good along with the batting. Got 4 pair of Big and Tall mens' shirts and 3pr corduroy pants (xxxl) $10.00.

JenniePenny

Quilting can be expensive, but savvy quilters can and do find lots of bargains. In response to the original question, I think I've paid $17 a yard once for some exquisite Dutch Java batik fabric, and it was 65" wide. Was it worth it? Yes, it was. (And did I cut into it? Yes.)

klswift

I rarely, rarely pay for than $7 per yard for cotton. NEVER buy at full price. I often buy fabric on etsy and ebay (usually my focus fabric). Then I watch for a sale price for the coordinating fabrics. If you are selling your products, you can not buy at retail prices and make any profit. I price notions at the store and take into account what the coupon price would be. Then I check online. I almost always buy rotary blades online. Please remember that anything sharp or mechanical bought at Harbor Freight is the reason they have the rep as the 'one time tool store'. But they are a great resource for things like organizers, magnetic boards and bowls, rulers etc. People have said that this takes too much time, but, like any other thing, if approached like a business, you will succeed. Making a profit on my product allows me to not worry about the money spent on gift quilts or quilts for charity. One feeds the other! Also, back in the 70's, gas also cost less than 40 per gallon and movies were $1!!