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hairquilt 10-08-2011 05:02 AM

I use thrift store finds also-sheets,pillow cases,shams,crib sheets,drapes,clothing-don't buy unless label says 100% cotton. I get lots of beautiful fabric this way . I use the fat quarter rule for pricing. Must be larger than a FQ & cost less than $2.

Greenheron 10-08-2011 05:04 AM

Yes, since I was a child getting scraps from my mother. I also turned the collars on DH's shirts when we were newly wed, made baby sleepers from old cotton sweatshirts, denim toddler coveralls from worn thin jeans, patchwork cushions.

Over the years my stash has grown with bargain fabrics--sewing factory cuts, orphan blocks & patches, thrift & yard sale goods, rummage sales, immediate family worn clothing, feed sacks, wool blankets and clothing, and remnants. Now that I'm retired the stash is steadily becoming an organized fabric collection.

The funniest part is looking for cotton clothing to wear--but with an eye to its potential future use.

MS quilter 10-08-2011 05:19 AM

I am with you. I do it all the time. I can't imagine NOT doing it. Of course, some people (won't say who) think I'm crazy. Heck, maybe I am, but I love it. It's a challenge.

AprilG 10-08-2011 05:21 AM

I have always gone to the thrift stores for fabric. I never thought of looking for just fabric! I would buy formal gowns (they usually have tons of fabric and lace!). I would use the material in the gowns for dresses for my porcelain dolls. I have recently started doing life-like vinyl dolls. I made a christening gown for one of my babies. She was sold recently. I have asked the lady that bought it for a picture as mine was accidentally deleted from my camera. But now I look for fabric when I go. Old Curtains are a great source too. Escecially lined ones. Front and back of your lap quilt!

cherrio 10-08-2011 05:22 AM

yes, I made a quilt and 3 table runners from some of grandmas clothes when she passed. 1 for each daughter

miriam 10-08-2011 05:24 AM


Originally Posted by MS quilter
I am with you. I do it all the time. I can't imagine NOT doing it. Of course, some people (won't say who) think I'm crazy. Heck, maybe I am, but I love it. It's a challenge.

Is it the challenge for you too? I love the challenge. See what I can make out of ____!

Eliebelle 10-08-2011 05:33 AM

I think the blue/green thing may be a window valance, and if so, it's probably cotton/poly. GREAT finds!!!

AprilG 10-08-2011 05:34 AM


Originally Posted by butterjoy
I recycle everything that is fabric. Shirts, jeans, sheets, blankets, everything I can because I cannot afford to buy pretty fabrics. You have heard the saying "beggars cannot be choosers" well, that is me. :)

My old blankets and towels go to the local Animal Shelter. They really need these things and I would rather they get used that way then to incorporate them into a quilt. My kitchen towels (if they are not too grungy or faded) can be used to make quilts. Have made one. Just haven't gotten it quilted yet. Still working on that one. If you use new towels, be sure to wash first and check for bleeding! I bought a set of dish towels from LAKESIDE catalog. When I washed them, the solid green ones bled all over the white/green ones! Now I have two-tone green ones. It will still make a pretty quilt top.

Mona Marie 10-08-2011 05:57 AM

I am cutting up a shirt to make an apron. And have used old sheets for backing, and old blankets for batting.

grumpy90650 10-08-2011 06:05 AM

i love going to the thrift shops, garage sales, etc to find old stuff i can use...i have many things to use different things on, i can always find a bargain....looks like you did good!!!!


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