What part of Wisconsin? I assume Milwaukee? I think it depends on the location a lot as well, when I am willing to pay a lot is when I am in a "pinch"... so when I want to start/finish a project and I am out of something or need something extra. So then I go to Joannes (simply because that is all that is nearby me), and pay whatever it costs to be stocked. I work on my stash building when fabrics are around the $3 per yard mark like someone else posted.
Good luck! I love your avatar as well.