To answer your initial question - $4.00-$5.00 per yd depending on the brand. I was lucky recently to get some brand name that had been reduced for $2.50 per yd. Check out web site for New England Quilt Supply. They list the suggested retail price and wholesale cost would be 1/2 of what is listed. It sounds like you have a passion to do this but in my opinion now is not the time to go into the independent quilt shop busiess. However, the best thing would be to attend the fall Quilt Market in Houston. Check their requirements for attending and see if you can meet any and go.