personally, I take one of the dog's coller and leash with me and after it's in the bag I can always say it followed me home.. Nha, it doesn't work, but at least I do try to be inventive. I pretty much get at least 2 yards even if I know I only need 1. Sometimes that's the fabric that you only buy one, need more, go back and it's sold out. So as of right now I am ready for the fabric intervention that my kids want to go into. Then they see the newest fabric and tell me never mind because they haave something they would love for me to make for them... Sale time.. 50% off.. I always try for as much of the 108" backing fabric. and always at least three yards. To me that's the best way to built that particular expensive fabric into a very nice cushion.