Maybe this could be the "new post about economical sewing"
I use a number of strategies...
1. Use the rulers you have, most blocks can be made using standard rulers...granny didn't have anything fancy and I have a beautiful hexagon/star quilt she made in the 30's/40's.
2. You don't have to buy every pretty fabric that comes along! The designers aren't going anywhere, there will be more fabric.
3. I buy FQ's or half yards when I do need something as I tend to put 50+ fabrics in my quilts these days.
4. I use thrifted sheets for backings with no issues.
5. I bargain shop for fabric when I need it...EBay, Facebook de-stash pages, thrift store, or local warehouse that sells designer/name brand quilt fabric for $4/yard. Never pay full LQS price for fabric!
6. Hand or machine quilt the quilts yourself.
7. Buy batting on sale with a coupon.
8. Piece leftover batting for other projects.
9. Finish your projects! Don't leave UFO's sitting around.
There are probably more frugal tips, these just come to mind quickly.