Yes the quality of fabric has changed. I stopped buying really well wrapped fat quarters because some were really thin almost like starched cheese cloth. When I pull some fabrics from the early 90s the feel is totally different. They are heavier and denser. Much better quality. Even if you pay premium these days you can still get a dud, as well as really good fabric for a few bucks. I go by feel. That is all I can do but I stay in affordable price range. I cannot and I refuse to pay &12.99 for a piece of cloth.