I forgot to say Elizabeth that the Customs also charge tax at 19.6% of the value of the goods, and they include the shipping fee, (from non EU countries) which has to be paid on delivery - probably reason for the delay while they work it all out! I think it applies to private parcels coming in also, as they have to have a declaration.
One good source for fabric is charity shops - particularly childrens' clothes in cotton prints - always in good condition because the kids grow out of them so quickly. Cotton shirting worth keeping. I know a couple of ladies who go to such shops with suitcases to carry all their booty home.
I have several button boxes holding different categories - I make small patchwork items for Christmas markets etc - and can find uses for most things. Equally saving ribbons (from gifts, flowers etc), always handy to have.