I was at an estate sale the other day where they had fabric stuffed into maybe quart sized freezer bags for $10 a bag. It seemed like a fair deal, except that I would have wanted to choose the fabric at that price (the lady in front of me grabbed the bag of batiks, darn!).
I've also been part of sales where people pick and choose and pay by the pound. Yes, a good scale is necessary, but it's an enjoyable way to shop!