Welcome from sunny, Central Florida! Your bags are wonderful!! Very pretty!! I try to keep my costs down as well, and have taught two students my methods of conserving as much as possible. Thrift shops are a great way to keep the cost down. I go there too! The last pattern I designed was a border for a "Sleigh Ride" Christmas tree skirt which will go to my youngest daughter before Christmas. So far, I've mostly used free patterns off the internet. Although I do buy a few on sale here and there. I look forward to getting to know you!