I like going to thrift stores on our Island.. I have been lucky finding fabric, and shirts in the mens department, and sheets for backing.. .. Everything gets washed, and dried straight from the bag.. The thought of hitch hikers scares me... I also wash fabric to make sure the dye won't run.. Right now I have burgandy sheets that I've washed five times, and they are still running.. I just got Retayne, and I'm going to try using it.. then run a wash cycle with dye catchers..
Barri

I believe good fabric brings good results, less dye bleed issues. That said, use cheaper material for sampler blocks as you learn techniques and master 1/4" seams, then move onto quality fabrics. IMO sewing on colors and fabrics I like is much more enjoyable. Join a guild or classes at LQS to learn, make friends, gather tips, and receive advice. Welcome to quilting, have fun with learning and I'm sure you'll do wonderful.

I would pre-wash whether is good quality or not, just my opinion!

I don't actually know your definition of "good fabric," but I wouldn't start with real expensive fabric. It is too easy to cut a piece wrong or not make good 1/4 inch seams when you first start, or at least it was that way with me. I have been quilting a little over 2 years, and I buy most of my fabric at Wal-Mart, Hobby Lobby, or Hancock's. There are two quilt stores in town, but I just can't pay that much for their fabric. My quilts turn out good, and yours will too. The decision is really yours though. I would never advise a beginner to use expensive fabric.

Dina

Perhaps beginning with a small project like a table runner would let you afford nice material without breaking the bank if you mess up.

Do what fits in your budget. My first quilts were done with fabrics from walmart and joanns I've never lived in a place where a LQS was i always had to make a special trip. Now because if where I live I have to buy online. I just got word that theres a shop an hour away and I plan to visit. I love charm packs because I spend very little to get a sample of whats out. Moda is my favorite. Only , thing I will tell you is whatever you choose to buy 2yards min. I used to buy 1/2 yard of the prints I loved and I'm struggling using them for quilts. I think the article was probably addressing getting what you pay for. If you buy high quality it will last longer, lower quality (thin fabric) may not last as long thru washings. You got to figure in agitation and heat that pioneers of quilting didn't have. Quilts have to stand up to a lot more now going thru the washing cycle.

Better fabric will be easier to work with; after it is washed, it will have more body. Won't ravel; will hold its shape when pressing. So the construction process will be less frustrating. But it will cost more. Your choice. If you choose to use cheaper fabric, prewash using hot water and starch.

You should buy the best fabric that you can afford. Having said that, I think you should make smaller projects until you are confident that you will not waste your fabric. Better quality fabric wears better and the colors stay vibrant. Cheaper fabrics fade and wear differently. When you spend hours making a quilt, you want the fabric to hold up. JMHO
Sue

Use coupons at JoAnn's, shop the sales and buy what you like. I don't prewash unless it is flannel. I haven't had any problem. This fabric will probably outlive us. Paying $12.00 a yard for fabric would keep many from quilting. Slipping in an expensive piece now and then that you love is a good thing. Work with fabric you love.

my dad always said to buy the best you can afford