While DH and I were able to work, buying fabric was not much of a problem, although I bought fabrics only on sale 90% of the time. I had friends who would give me their fabrics when they decided not to sew or quilt any more, my sister passed her fabrics on to me while she was alive and I inherited her fabric when she passed away. While I was recovering from spinal surgery and learning to walk again, a therapist heard that I quilted and gave me nearly 40 yds. of fabric a friend had given her that she wasn't going to use. Ultimately, I could not bring all my fabric with me when we downsized to an apt., but I gave away about half before I told my husband I was not giving away any more fabric. Granted I do still buy fabric when I need something in particular to finish a project, but it's nice to be able to head to my stash and "go shopping". Besides, quilting is cheaper than therapy. LOL

I always look at the sale fabric to use for backing a quilt. I buy it when it is 50% off. There have been times I've purchased backing fabric at 90% off. It doesn't matter if the back coordinates with the front. Sometimes it is nice to have something totally different - almost another quilt when you look at the back.

One thing I have found is that no one realizes how much you are going to be spending on insurance once you retire. My husband and I have additional insurance besides Medicare and it costs a fortune. My brother-in-law retired at 55 and went back to work as he couldn't afford insurance. It can cost anywhere from $500 to $1000 every three months per person. Unless people have pensions or other income, social security won't make it. My prescriptions used to cost $700.00 per month and I purchase prescription insurance as well. It can be tough unless you have really saved a nice nest egg.

I worked on building my stash for about the last 5 years I worked. I have enough now that I could sew for the next 50 years. At least I know I won't run out of fabric before I die! LOL

It is a disheartening, isn't it! I can't believe how much $$$ I spent on my last quilt for our newest grandbaby!! All of it but the backing was at least $10.75 per yd!

Thank you for this info... I am getting close to retiring and have been worried .. I don't drink or smoke, my quilting and crafts is what I do...

I started stocking up fabric and all other quilting notions, books, rulers and a new Janome 5 years before I retired.
Now I can go to my stash anytime for any project. Do I still buy..you bet..but not spending a lot of money:):)
And I do have 6 vintage sewing machines including two FW's that I take to quilt camp four times a year.

I have been retired for 4 years and have started using up my stash and usually only have to buy the backing. I'm finishing all my ufos before I start new projects. I watch sells, use coupons, and ask for gift certificates for quilt stores. I don't really need anything and the certificates makes easy shopping for my family!. Like any hobby budgeting is required.