A lot of women at imitated by the words QUILT SHOP..... it means $$$$$$$. I've tried to get my friend to go to my sister in law's shop in another state. All she can think abt is $$$$. There are so many cute small things a woman can buy and make that they probably would buy materials at a quilt shop. $40.00 is different than $400.00 for a quilt: if you can get a group in it adds up. I do not have a lot of money, yet, I'm attracted to the materials and patterns or, once I go into the shop. A yard here and there helps the store. Just need a calling card. With the price of cotton going up, that means the quilt stores have to pay more, so when we say sell cheaper, there would be no hope of selling at price. maybe if someone buys a certain amout of yardage, then give a sale of 10%-20% ??? classes and a drawing card :) good luck you quilt shops out there. I guess enough to keep your doors open and hang in there. prayerfully things will get better. :)