If I see a fabric I have to have I buy between 2 -3 yards, however, when I see fabric on sale, I will buy 6-8 yards, especially if it is a white on white or being tone on tone, as these are my basics for backgrounds. If I see a great fabric I will buy the 2-3 yards, but then also buy one or two other pieces to go with it, but buy only 1 to 1 1/2 yard pieces. I guess it just depends on what I see, if it's a good price, and if I have the money to buy it, especially since I'm on a fixed income. It's a good thing I brought lots of my stash with me when we downsized, so I generally "shop" in my totes, although sometimes there is just a piece I have to have.