ckcowl

i often recycle and re-use fabrics...but if they are thin/fine they really are not suited for quilting- unless you add an interfacing to them to give them some body/substance- they will be too fragile & chances are simply fall apart with the first laundering. if the fabrics are good quality, not too thin, fine they will be perfectly ok to use. sheets are generally not recommended for a number of reasons, the thread counts are much more than the quilting fabrics we use-so they are not as easy to work with. you can use spray sizing or starch to make your recycled fabrics nicer to work with= but if they are thin/worn to the point that a spritz of starch does not give them body- they should be set aside for some other use (like to use for practicing/checking tensions/trying new stitches, a press cloth, or even foundations for 'paper *foundation* piecing...or if you love them & really really want to use them purchase some lightweight fusable interfacing *woven or non-woven* (not paper backed fusable for applique)and fuse it to the back of the fabrics...then use as desired.

cjsews

Don't forget to look at men's shirts at the thrift store. You can get close to a yard of fabric there.

cathyvv

Usually the threadbare sheets are more threadbare in the center than around the edges, so you may be able to get some usable fabric from them - if you already bought them anyway.

Otherwise, I agree that skipping threadbare or yellowed/graying sheets is a best.

GrannieAnnie

I use a lot of recycled fabric. My rule of thumb is if it's obviously used------------don't put it in a quilt.

cathyvv

Zappycat, if you're getting a set of flannel sheets for $11.99 with 30% off, you're getting an excellent deal! The flannel sheets make excellent backings and you can use the pillowcases 'as is' to hold/match the quilt. The fitted sheets - cut the elastic off, open the darts and lay it flat and you have another backing, plus scraps.

Buying a set of flannel sheets for $8.40 is better than any good will or thrift store buy.

delma_paulk

Buy the 100% cotton shirts and dresses and you will get better value. It's easy to take clothes apart and use for quilting and you get some wonderful colors and prints.

delma

pollyjvan9

I use a lot of recycled clothing in scrap quilts and other quilts, too. However, I usually buy the higher end clothing that is 100% cotton. Ralph Lauren for example has some gorgeous fabrics and they feel so wonderful. I buy men's shirts, but again I try to buy the designer or higher end shirts. If they have stains or tears I pass them buy unless I just can't resist the pattern or color, then I just work around the problem. I wash, cut apart, spray starch once or twice and press. I love them. By the way, did you know the "new" 3Rs is not really new. I believe it was started in the 1930's during the depression when the only way to get something was to use the 3Rs.

MisDixie

Look for bed skirts. Usually the fabric is fine, donated because some one changed up the bedroom. I use the white fabric that goes under the mattress for foundation peicing.