This sounds crazy but I use my phone camera a lot. I have a memo app and can attach a photo. I make a note like. This pattern>Joe or Jim. Then I may check my previous memos for size and yardage. I usually buy at least 1 1/2 yards. When I want denim, I check out the thrift stores or estate sales. Denim is usually quality and fairly cheap. I just bought a size 3x cotton dress for $3.00 and another long 2xL denim dress for $4.00 at the Goodwill and Salvation Army. Saturdays at Salvation ARmy here is 50% off everything in the store.