Rosalynd, For the most part, they just grow. And, once they start, it is hard to stop them. Having said that, specific to Arkansas, have you been to Marshalls Dry Goods in Batesville? They have fabric at great prices. Most of it is nice quality. There is also a little fabric shop called Catherines in Morrilton, take the exit like you are going to Petite Jean but at the light go right like you are going to go to the Walmart and she is in a small building across the street from Walmart.
I also hit a couple shops in Springfield, MO last week and one of them had good prices. If you are heading north any time soon send me a PM and I will get you their number.