I started out buying FQ's, I still have those original FQ's. I never use them, guess I am one of those quilters that don't know what to do with them. I saw a episode on Simply quilts that said if she is buying for stash, then she never buys less than 3 yrds, thats how I buy. 3+ yrds at least. But I too am thrifty when it comes to buying, I usually buy not because I love it, but because I like it and its on sale. Good luck.