I love this question. My answer is simple ~ I build my stash one piece at a time. LOL Actually, I have my fabric categorized by color. Batiks and specialty fabrics including ones I've dyed or surface designed are separate. I keep most of it visible and can tell at a glance the colors I am low in. I rarely buy anything full price. I'm a patient shopper, will wait for sales or make do with what I have. My stash has increased greatly from relocating/downsizing friends and garage sales.