I use plastic sandwich bags for my quilt pieces. At the lab, we get alot of clean, sterile items in plastic sandwich bags. Those bags usually go in the trash but I have been saving them, bring them home, and using (and reusing) them. I haven't had to buy bags in two years. I also save cardboard that comes in various things and use it for templates. I also use the subscription card things in magazines for templates too. I save all the ends of thread, floss, yarn, and fabric pieces for stuffing. Don't know why...just do.