The easy answer is $5 to $7 dollars -- sorry couldn't resist -- my bad. I think, as many have said in the discussions, that you HAVE to look closely at the fabric and feel it. You will get experienced (if you aren't already) and will be able to feel how good or bad the fabric is. Bad fabric feels bumpy and the weave looks loose. There are definite deviations in the pattern. Look at the end of the bolt and see if the thread count is listed. I have had some that were and some that weren't. I would rather spend more money and get something that is going to last in my quilts than save $3/yrd and have something that falls apart in 3 to 5 years.