When I first started quilting, I told everyone. Then for birthdays and Christmas, I'd tell my DH and kids "Don't forget to go to the fabric store and pick out 3 or 4 fat quarters each - just something you like." That's how I built my stash. It's also nice to see what your loved ones like to look at in fabric. When you finally use one of their pieces - you hear - "hey, that's my fabric - you used my piece - how cool". I really really love that part.