I make a lot of scrap quilts and use clothing bought at garage sales and thrift stores. I don't buy clothing with a lot of wear and tear. I usually look for the designer cotton clothing, especially Ralph Lauren. I don't know how to post just the thread but if you look at an old post of mine called - A few more quilts I have made - posted 4-18-2010 the one called Country Roses has a 100% cotton used in the center of the block, aqua with roses, this was from a pair of Ralph Lauren pants, and the brown border was from a bed skirt. It was just exactly the color I wanted. The one called Ice Princess was made from free old prom dresses. I managed to use already beaded satin for the border. I also buy 100% wool clothing and wash and dry for wool applique. I think if these clothes have been around for 10-15-20 years they are probably going to last for a lot more years.