I purchase batting by the 40 yard bolt *roll* when ever I need more batting- I generally find ways to use free shipping, or a coupon that makes up for any shipping charges- if you order through joann's you can have it shipped to the store to save on shipping fees. it comes in a huge plastic bag- I keep it stored in that bag- when I need it I take it out, cut what I need, and put it back- it stands next to a dresser in my quilting room. pretty much out of the way. when I need to cut a batt I usually take the roll (the batting is folded in 1/2 so it is only 45- 54" tall) into the bedroom- I lay it out on the bed & pull out what amount I need- using a tape measure- then I cut off the amount I need. sometimes I may need to use a ruler and mark the line to cut on- sometimes I can 'eye ball' it.