Wow ladies you have been so helpful... from reading the posts this is what I have generally decided. Most have agreed that 3 yards is good... Cost effective if you can't afford a bolt but enough to at least do a boarder. I had never thought of getting a whole bolt with my JoAnns 50% off coupon that is a great Idea. There are some colors you use in a lot of quilting like creams and white. Great Idea.