I get empty bolts when I go to fabric stores, but I can't keep up. So I went to the lumber compy and found 1/4" backerboard, had it cut into 12" X 8" tol get the most out of the 4' X 8" piece (15.99). Next time I am going to cut some larger sizes. I also have used some clip boards I got att Sam's. They kinda looked like the backerboard. I liked them because the clip held the fabric. I think they were about 4.00 for 6. But don't quofe me on that, I may get more of them if they are as cheap as I think they are. I too like my fabric standing up so I don't have to dig in.