Yankee

I went to a quilt show today. The brochure had some interesting facts about Civil War quilts. One thing I read was that because so much fabric was used up making quilts for the soldiers to keep warm, the cloth became scarce and the price for just one YARD was as much as $25.00.

The most I have ever paid was about $9.00 a yard.

Feel better? :-)

LivelyLady

I like the fabric and prices of Connecting Threads and try to find good sales. $25 a yard is too rich for my blood.

ghostrider

And the relative value of $25 in 1865 is $345 in 2010. We've got it pretty good I'd say! :D

Yankee

Gosh I had not even thought of that! It's usually the first thing in my head when I am watching an old movie and someone mentions a certain amount of money.

thepolyparrot

That's pretty interesting! $345 a yard - whew! Having quilting as a hobby would become quite a status symbol wouldn't it?

I'm not worried about higher prices, though - "shopping" in my stash is free. (that's quilter's logic ;) )

pab58

Another reason why the fabric was scarce and was selling for up to $25 per yard is due to the fact that there was a blockade on southern ports so no cotton could go out, and, therefore, no fabric could come in. ;)

TonnieLoree

I hemmed 2 pair of pants for my mother today the the package price on the seam binding said 15 cents.

JenniePenny

Yes indeeed. Plus the Union troops were known to destroy the southern cotton plantations by fire when marching through.

the casual quilter

Yep!

jillnjo

I like to use my stash,too,but then I think-what if I use it all up and have to start buying at even higher prices? I want to purchase at LQshops,but can't stand some of the prices.In my area,I am really lucky to have cheaper prices on great quality fabrics.Not all shops are cheap,though.It's hard to run a business these days competing with the big stores,I guess.