I think compared to many or even most on this board, I have a very modest stash. It's pretty safe to say that I would have to buy at least *some* fabric for any project I might do, even if the majority is "stash shopping". I try not to buy without a plan in mind...now, that plan usually doesn't mean a pattern, but that I want to use it in a specific quilt. I try to organize my fabrics together, so that fabrics for a planned project are together. I think the only time I've really bought fabric just for the sake of buying fabric was when I first started quilting and found a local lady who was de-stashing and selling her quilting fabric for *VERY* cheap. I bought a lot from her, and had a plan for none of it except for a couple of pieces.

When you can't get into the sewing room/closet/storage room, then I guess it's gotten too big.

I try to make sure I purge fabric regularly. It's the only way the fabric I do want to use stays easily accessible and neat.

I have a fair amount, but I've been destashing- giving to dds and bffs that now want to quilt. I'm enjoying seeing the "half full" tubs instead of full tubs. And I'm only buying to finish out projects- some panels and complimentary fabs for quilts for the grands.

Goal is to finish the UFOs, work on my "someday I want to make" list and no new fabric buying of any new lines is allowed. Goal is to use up.

My thought too!

Never?

I guess it will be too big when the fabric companies stop designing fabrics and I continue to pay top dollar for rare and OOP fabrics..

A few months ago I may have commented differently about this, but today I am going to say it is NEVER too big!

When I started quilting about 7 or 8 years ago it was so eacy to buy fabrics that were roughly $5/yard. This past month I went into my LQS and fabrics went from $8.50/yard to $9.50-$10.15. The thing that got me was that she even increased all of the OLD bolts that have been on the shelves forever.

I walked out feeling extremely thankful that my stash overflows at home with fabrics that I still love. It made me appreciate the fact that I have built up that stash and that I will use what I have instead of paying $10/yard for any new fabrics.

So, instead of feeling like it's too much, feel like it's your retirement "fund", or at least a wonderful inheritance to some lucky quilter years from now.

I will NOT pay $10/yard for regular 42" cotton fabric!

Thanks,

Suzanne in VT

I say a stash is never too big. However, you have to be smart enough about the space you have for storage. In my house my space is very limited so I have a small stash and most of it is scraps. I have used some of my scraps to make a quilt top for my bed, but I still have 2 large plastic totes full of scraps. I guess I will make a scrappy quilt for family or friends. Jeanniebelle

[quote=Suzanne in VT]


I will NOT pay $10/yard for regular 42" cotton fabric!

Do I agree?!? You bet your life!