When I first started quilting, I was buying 1 yard (listened to Alex Anderson about stashes). I was soooo pleased with myself that I had this large stash. Then, every project that I wanted to do called for 4-6 yards of one color :cry: Well, then I had to go out and buy more material :roll: so that I could make my project. (Okay, I admit it wasn't like going to the dentist going to the fabric store, however......)
Now, I just try to get at least 4 yards of any material that I really like so that when I go to make a quilt (usually queen or double), I have enough material.
I guess what I'm trying to say is, build your stash with what you normally need for a project. That way you aren't disappointed that you don't have enough of that special fabric that would look just right with that special pattern that you found.