If you go far back you will find that original quilt were all made from clothing that cannot be used any more. The beauty of those quilts is stunning. For batting you can use old thin blanket or if you are like me you will wait for that 50% cupon at AC Moore and buy it then. I keep all my batting leftovers and put them together for smaller projects. Also, Walmart clearance bin has $2 fabric which is cheaper than buying a second hand shirt. Browse craiglist, sometimes people give fabric away for free. Good luck! I went through 4 years of civil war and we had to make due. We made coats out of blankets and clothes from drapes.