Inherit fabric, accept gifts of scraps from friends, buy at garage sales or thrift shops. There are many ways to build a stash. I do also buy fabrics at quilts shops, Walmart, JoAnns, etc. but it is sometimes necessary to go a cheaper route if you are on a fixed income. You can use good parts of cast off clothing, linens, as well. I love making bags out of pillowcases and embellishing with parts of old embroidered linens. Yes, I have a stash of old linens, men's ties, goldwashed and sparkly fabrics for embellishment as well. Think outside the box!