SuzzyQ

Just a quick question ...
I'm in the process of writing a modern quilting project for 4-Hers (9-21). One of the topics is where to get the fabric the members use. At the price of fabric it would be a pretty expensive project to run - asking families to buy fabric and cutters and rulers etc.
I had thought of asking quilters in the area to donate their "What was I Thinking" /over-stash fabric (as well as encouraging the kids to pickup cotton shirts etc at thrift stores).
I mentioned it to the quilters in my circle and got positive responses except for one lady. Her thought was "Why do they want our cast-off? If I don't want it why would they?"
I'm one of those there is no ugly fabric, you just haven't cut it small enough quilters. I work with lots of fabric that have been donated to me and it is surprising what appeals to someone else or how different settings change the appeal of "ugly".
Your thoughts?

Panchita

One man's trash is another man's treasure?

Maybe ask for donations and then see what you get... Some fabric may be unsuitable for many reasons (too old, wrong weight, really, truly ugly) but some (hopefully most!) may be fine.

Perhaps if you don't advertise it as the 'ugly fabric throw out', but rather 'donations for a 4H project' the objector may no longer object?

OhCanada

I think it is a good idea. Just because I may not like a particular fabric doesn't mean it won't appeal to others.

BETTY62

I would go with your suggestions of where to get fabric as there are a lot of kids whose families just don't have the money to buy it in their budget. It would also teach the kids that being thrifty and recycling is a good thing that can have awesome results.

NJ Quilter

I see nothing wrong with your suggestions. As someone else mentioned 'another man's trash...'. And how many threads just on this board have there been about 'well, I bought this tool and I really don't like it'. I'm sure there are plenty of generous folks out there more than willing to help out your students. Good luck with the program.

MOBRIDGE MOM

Speaking as a former Extension Office Secretary (this was the office that ran the 4-H program in SD) if they go to the thrift shop and buy shirts or use what was I thinking fabric they could probably use it in another project under recycling.

Jeanne S

I like your idea. It would be really helpful for the families with limited resources. You could give them the option of bringing their own fabric if they want, and this would cover those that didn't like your collections or had access to other fabric they like better. It is just for learning projects anyway, probably won't be family heirlooms. Encouraging recycling is always a great idea too.

joyce blint

I think you have an opportunity to teach 2 things w this project. 1) the obvious....the sewing project, and 2) have them keep a record of their materials and costs. Then discuss expenses and cost-cutting ideas, etc. (this could include borrowing tools as opposed to buying them, sharing tools, the source of the fabric..gifted , thrift store, WalMart, LQS.)
Many young people don't get this sort of experience at home or school.

ManiacQuilter2

Who can afford to buy over $100 in supplies when first starting to quilt? When I started, I took hand me downs. These are still difficult financial times. I would ignore that woman. I make most of my charity quilts from donations.

toverly

I would go with Bonnie Hunter projects and use clothing. They are kids and nearly everyone has old clothes. Then the rotary cutters, mats and rulers could be shared. The only personal expense would be batting, thread, backing (unless you went with old sheets). If you purchase batting by the roll while on sale at J's, it is pretty low cost per foot.