I think people are surprised at exactly how much making a quilt would cost. I have never sat down and figured it out, but over the years, even buying fabric at great sale prices, it amounts to a lot. I'm especially weak when it come to fabric sales, etc., etc.; especially when shopping with my best friend who is an enabler. However, at the time I was working full time and quilting is far, far cheaper than therapy. That said, now that my DH and I are on Social Security, our resources are limited, but I have a good stash (which DH isn't happy about), but I've been making quilts, wall hangings, table runners, placemats, etc., etc. from that stash and only shopping for fabric when I need a certain color or I've run out of batting. I have been able to recoup a lot of the money spent on fabric by attending craft fairs, and, knock on wood, so far I've been fairly successful in making enough "mad money" so what I spend is all mine, which is a great feeling, especially on our limited budget. I'm addicted to fabric and quilting, so I doubt I'll ever stop.