The amount of money and time put into each quilt can make it extremely expensive to create. This thread definately makes me consider who will receive finished quilts more seriously. I want to thank all of you who offered more affordable options when purchasing fabric. I have shopped on the internet and at the LQSs but never thought of looking for local salvage companies or fabric mills. Now that I am enlightened about total cost per quilt I will be searching for smaller quilted projects to make for gifts. Its kind of funny I wouldn't even consider buying presents for acquaintances that are above $30 yet I would make a baby or lap quilt without giving it a second thought. Its strange how there aren't any boudaries when making quilty gifts while there are definite price limits on store bought gifts. I think most quilters spend more money on gifts for others than we do on gifts for ourselves. There is little hesitation when purchasing fabrics for bed sized quilted gifts but alot of hesitation when we want a new sewing machine. I personally would rather use the money on something that will benefit me or my family personally. I know it sounds selfish. I've read about so many quilters who are coveting a new machine but it just isn't in their budget. Well if we did fewer projects for others we would have the money for what we really want in no time at all.
Lisa