What a wonderful thread reading all the different ways people collect their fabrics and when they started planning for retirement. I started quilting in the early 80's with a pair of scissors, a pencil, a cardboard template and a used sewing machine. I made a queen size quilt like my grandmother did. And I never sewed. I have collected fabric since then but only small pieces so now I can make great scrap quilts. I still love to sort through it and look at it and love finally having my own sewing room after so many years. I practice new things on fabric that was bought years ago. I call them my practice quilts. Smart idea to buy a good sewing machine and batting before retirement. I think I will do that! And of course stash cash!