in this day and age, you have to prioritize your spending. I never go to LQS because I can't afford to, and I go to Walmart for backing and batting. I go to garage sales, thrift stores and cut up cotton clothing. Our grandmothers didn't have LQS. they made beautiful quilts that have stood the sands of time and I expect mine will too. There are others who wouldn't think of buying anywhere but a quilt shop. I'll let them keep the shops in business.