there are no hard and fast 'rules' when it comes to buying fabric!! I have purchased an entire bolt down to a single fat quarter....and all lengths in between. If it is a focus fabric, I would try for at least 2 yards and if it is a backing fabric, at leat 5-6 yards. solids and tone on tones, I try for a half yard. I do a lot of scrappy styles and can usually go into my stash room and pull out what I need. When in doubt...buy more....there is no experation date on fabric. I just pulled out a Valentine print with the year 2000 on the salvege.....cute little cupids and hearts!!
Jodi in Kansas