Yikes !! This thread has forced me to stop and think about what I actually do. I would think that most of the time I see a fabric that I really like. Then I buy it and other pieces that would go with it. As far as amounts, I never have a clue as to how much to buy. Then I bring whatever I have purchased and put it in the stash. Then when I have a need (either need a gift, or need to just quilt, or need to try out a pattern) I go into my stash and see what fabrics I'd like to put together for the pattern. Unfortunately sometimes I have to go back to the store to find something else to add to what I have at home. I know this sounds very bad, but in my twisted mind, it makes sense.