Welcome! You'll likely find quilting a wonderful fun hobby in retirement - I sure did! I frequently buy fabric online at www.thousandsofbolts.com, and have been pleased. I started out making purses, to get some practice. Most of my embroidery thread is Madeira 40 weight rayon, and they have a website that will sell you spools at much lower prices than in stores. Go to Madeiramart.com, and an 1100 yard thread spool is very affordable. Have fun!
Bobbie