Wow! Thanks all for the ideas. Good thing my dream of using only velvet wasn't carved in stone - no wale corduroy would be a good substitute and felted wool also except for the expense. I 'll "force" myself to go junking and search the clothing racks - and I might as well seek out treasures in the kitchen area (and books and vintage patterns and, well, everything!) I still remember a few years back someone posted finding tons of brand new 30's repro. fabric at a thrift store! What a find! thanks again to all for helping me out!