I would go to a quilt shop and look at patterns first, then buy what you would like to try. The yardages are given and you could select new material to make that pattern. THis method is safe and there wouldn't be much waste.

My advice is to go online to some of the quilt fabric mfgrs and look at their patterns and collections, when you find one you love, go for it. My personal favorite fabrics are from Moda.:)

So, you don't have to spend it all at once or right away...take your time, plan your quilt, shop around, and enjoy the whole process without any pressures.

Go to your LQS and check out the fabrics that are available and get some inspiration, mine has sample quilts all over the shop, it makes me want to get out my machine and sew

Look around and find a pattern you like and then match your fabric to it. There are so many free patterns online so spend some time and just look around. I'm sure you'll find something. :)

I would start with you LQS. I have a question for you. How far is Olathe, KS from Ogden,KS? The reason I ask this is because my Son in Law is in the Army and they are stationed at Fort Riley,KS. They have been there before and lived in Junction City, KS. Me and my daughter would look for local quilt shops but could never find any. I would like to go to a few whenever I go visit them If you could tell me where some are.

Are the gift certificates for just one place? Can they be combined with either coupons or sales to go farther? Look for a pattern or type of fabric that you have been wanting to try. Check out the books and see if there's anything in them that catches your eye. What a wonderful 'problem' to have. Happy New Year and happy shopping. Let us know what you pick out.

This is going to be soooo excitig for you! Have fun and I'm sure you will make a beautiful quilt!

go shopping! browse- take your time- look through the new patterns, books, look through a number of the magazines on the shelves---browse and fondle the fabrics- the perfect project will grab you- and only you will know -- THATS THE ONE!!! you will love it when you see it- you will know- that is the quilt i want to make---this is the fabric i have to use!!! just go -- do it leisurely- take your time- the gift cards will wait- maybe try something new- maybe do something you've just always wanted to- maybe make something for YOU---
i'd start with the magazines on the shelves at the grocery store- leaf through a couple and see if something grabs you= then visit the lqs---look through their selection of patterns- look at their store displays- look at their class offerings-
enjoy the process!

Take me with you! I can go thru 200 bucks in nothing flat!