For scraps you only need to buy a 1/4 yard here and there, maybe 1/2 if you really like it. That way, you only spend a few dollars at a time. That is how I started. Now I think I have too much. But I haven't sewn since my accident in June. Started feeling better last week, so starting to get the itch. With all that I have seen here lately, my head is swimming with ideas!