It depends on what quilt I am making. If it is a Block of the Month - the material comes monthly and the price can include the backing or not. If it is a Mystery Quilt the material is bought at one time and sometimes the backing only. I have made 3 and working on 2 more, where I pick and choose as I go along from my stash for the blocks then buy the sashing and the backing when I am ready for it.

I usually buy most of the material for an idea I have or a pattern I want to make. Sometimes I just like the material and the companion fabrics and buy that with no pattern in mind. If what I have brought does not look like it will achive what I want then I may buy other fabrics to go with it. It all depends. Other times I just buy a fabric, just because I like it and want to build my stash.
I guess this isn't much help. It is about as clear as mud. LOL

I buy everything at once, but usually change things as I look at it more and more!

I buy everything at once, but usually change things as I look at it more and more!

I buy as I make the quilt....usually borders after the piecing and then the backing, batting and then the binding.

btw, I am just barely south of Charlotte in Weddington. The Quilt Nook in Waxhaw is the shop I usually go to...just got to NC in August....

Do you belong to a Guild?