Thread: I actually have to 'START" my stash

Originally Posted by A1penny

HI FROM A LONG TIME AND BIG STASH QUILTER!
Don't buy too much fabric when you first start, your taste will change as you see more fabric, and get better and better. Finally you'll say when you look at your first fabric purchases....."what was I thinking?" I do think that what you are doing in only buying small quantities is a great idea. I have had to give away so many of the fabrics I first thought were so wonderful.........! You will find that different thread counts make a difference in the fabric finish, the type of dying, etc.
But have FUN and learn about fabric as you go along and discover your favorite fabric companies and types of fabric!
One thing I had problems with is making myself use a beautiful fabric that I think is too good to cut up! What has helped me get over that is that my best friend and quilting partner died with all her beautiful fabric left......I cleaned out her studio and have all her glorious fabric that she was too afraid to actually use! I realize I don't want to die and not have used all her, and my wonderful fabric in a quilt that would be loved by a relative or friend. If you buy it......use it!

I certainly agree with your statement about your taste changing over time. I see some of the first "Country" colored fabric I bought and have that same thought of ,"What was I thinking?" Geometrics are another I just don't ever seem to use in a quilt, but give me a Batik and then it's, "Yes, I want that!"

A1penny, I love your philosophy. I also need to start using my pretty fabrics. I think maybe one of my resolutions (it's not too late to make one is it?) would be to not buy new fabrics and just sew from what I have. My closets and totes could definitely benefit from this, along with my bank account.

Originally Posted by kathyd

A1penny, I love your philosophy. I also need to start using my pretty fabrics. I think maybe one of my resolutions (it's not too late to make one is it?) would be to not buy new fabrics and just sew from what I have. My closets and totes could definitely benefit from this, along with my bank account.

I seem to have that thought and then start looking for fabrics from my stash and usually find some that will work, but not enough and then end up going shopping anyway.

Having a stash is soooo much fun. But really watch buying cheaper fabric you put so much time and effort into making them you want them to last. I know in PA Lancaster area you can get to so many wonderful fabric shops. Some owned by the Amish, they are so willing to help you, the fabrics are so reasonable to buy and the quality is wonderful.

OH MY GOODNESS! Look what I got today!!! Is it my birthday? Nope - just another wonderful person from the board doing something so very nice. Thank you soo much N.J. linda!!!!

You can't tell here - but the white has a very pretty pattern to it!

One more :)

Wow, what a wonderful surprise. Quilt Angels really do exist.

I used to make a stash when I was working. But when I had to move it a couple of times without a moving company I decided to nix that concept. Now I buy the the project that is at least in the planning stages and never buy a fabric just because I like it.

Not to rain on anyones parade. This is just what I do.

Congratulations! What fun to start a stash :)
Don't forget to stock up on the tone on tone fabrics. I don't even buy white or muslin fabric anymore. I just stock up on the tone on tone when my local quilt store has them on sale. Really adds interest to a block/quilt. I even use them on my machine embroidery blocks. About the most versatile fabric for a new stash. :)