I pretty much buy based on the size of quilts I generally make and what I think I'll use the fabric for. If I think it's going to be a great border fabric for a queen size quilt I'll get 3 yards. If I think it's going into the scrappy twin size quilts I make I'll get a FQ. If I'm going to use it for the backing of a queen I'll get 8 yards. Accents and go withs I generally get one or two yards.

Don't forget, just because the pattern calls for 4 yards of X color doesn't mean you have to use all one fabric. You could use two yards of two colors. Or one yard of 4 colors. Or 16 FQs for a real scrappy look.

If I think I'll use it for a border or backing, I'll get 3-4 yards. If I don't have anything particular in mind, I'll get 1/2-1 yd. If I'm buying for a particular pattern, I round up to the nearest 1/2 or yard. Just in case!

If it multi color that I can use in a border I buy at least 3yds. If it is on sale and may be used as a backing I may buy the entire bolt, have done that, got 3 backings out of it; otherwise at least 7 -8 yds. I really hate to buy backings at retail price. Neutrals I buy 1- 3 yards, I like to use more than one fabric for backgrounds so usually buy 1 yds unless on sale.

I cant' bring myself to buy backing at retail price either! I have learned to not pass up a great fabric sale when I can get fabric for backing.

Thank you Bellaboo, that makes a lot of sense.

I usually buy 3 to 6 yards of something if I really like it. Fat quarters just aren't enough. I have to have yardage. If I am buying for a certain pattern, I will buy the required amount but if I am adding to my stash.......which I do more often than I should..(blushing) I buy quite a bit because by the time I get around to using it, I want to make sure I have enough. :)

I usually will buy 2 yards if I love it, 1 yard if I just 'really like' it ;-) I have been know to buy the rest of the bolt a time or two though. It all depends on my mood and how much is in my wallet at the time. Believe it or not, I have never purchased a fat quarter...just too small for me. :roll: