36years. My first project was a Sun Bonnet Sue baby quilt for my niece. I was a junior in high school and wanted each dress to be a different pink print. Back then pink calico fabrics were not very plentiful. I begged scraps from every aunt and acquaintance of my moms. It turned out pretty cute.
My next quilt was a quilt as you go log cabin in browns for my in-laws new water bed.
I have never bought a kit for a quilt. I just figured our why while writing this post. I guess I have always enjoyed the "hunt" for just the right materials. I would rather find my own, making the quilt truly my own rather than just a copy of someone else idea as to how the quilt should look.