We pay these prices because we don't have any choice, generally quilt shops and shows are the only places to buy our fabric and they are few and far between. I never buy even a metre of fabric, it is fq or long quarters and you learn to make it go a long way, wasting little. Backing is a problem and so far I have used calico, which I believe you call muslin, which is cheaper.
I, like a lot of you have very little money to spare.
I guess import tax and v.a.t is the reason it cost so much, they are both high over here.
Never mind, I could not give up this hobby, just have to eat less.!!!! good way to slim.