I do both, but mostly chose my own fabrics. But when I see one on sale that is discounted enough that I really couldn't buy the fabric for that price and I love it then I buy it. I have always had plenty of fabric in the kits. I only buy them from reputable companies though. I won't buy one unless it is put together by the company and not by a seller making up the kit. That I would not trust. But for the most part, I am shocked by how much some of the quiting catalogs charge for kits. And I won't buy a pattern at regular price either when I have too many magazines and quilting books already. Of course I bought them on sale or at yard sales too!!