What Are Your Strategies for Finding Inexpensive Quilt Fabrics?

Quilting doesn’t have to break the bank. You can try frugal quilting tips like shopping thrift stores, joining fabric swaps, or using inexpensive fabric from clearance racks. Many quilters worry about costs—making a queen-sized quilt can cost hundreds, which stops some people from starting.

If you want to stretch your budget, look for creative ways to reuse materials and check out reliable sources like Fanda Fabrics for quality quilting supplies. What Are Your Strategies for Finding Inexpensive Quilt Fabrics? With a little resourcefulness, you’ll find options that fit your needs.

Key Takeaways

• Shop thrift stores, estate sales, and fabric swaps to find cheap, unique quilting fabrics.

• Use repurposed clothes, old sheets, and fabric scraps to save money and reduce waste.

• Buy precut fabric bundles and check clearance sales for quality fabrics at lower prices.

• Join loyalty programs and time your purchases around sales to get the best deals.

• Organize your fabric stash well to avoid buying duplicates and make the most of what you have.

What Are Your Strategies for Finding Inexpensive Quilt Fabrics?

Thrift Store Finds

If you want to stretch your quilting budget, thrift stores can be a goldmine. Many quilters ask, What are your strategies for finding inexpensive quilt fabrics? One of the best ways to buy cheap fabric is to check out local thrift shops and charity stores.

You might find sheets, curtains, or tablecloths made from cotton or blends that work perfectly for quilting. Sometimes, you’ll even spot bundles of fabric or scrap bags tucked away on a shelf. These finds often cost just a few dollars, making them one of the most reliable ways to buy cheap fabric.

You can also look for deadstock fabric—overproduced or slightly imperfect fabric that stores sell at a discount. Some quilt shops offer lucky dip parcels or scrap bags, which give you a surprise mix of fabrics at a low price.

If you’re patient and visit thrift stores regularly, you’ll discover new treasures each time. Many experienced quilters say that sourcing fabrics from thrift stores is not only budget-friendly but also adds unique character to your quilts.

Tip: Always check the fabric for stains, odors, or damage before you buy. A quick inspection saves you from surprises later.

Estate and Garage Sales

Estate and garage sales are another answer to the question, What are your strategies for finding inexpensive quilt fabrics. These sales often feature quilting fabrics, sometimes even more than apparel fabrics.

You might come across fat quarters, yardage, or even vintage wool fabrics like Pendleton wools. Sometimes, you’ll find sewing notions, patterns, and tools bundled with the fabric, which can be a bonus for your quilting projects.

When you visit estate or garage sales, look for boxes or bins marked “craft supplies” or “sewing.” You may find fabric remnants, rolls, or even entire collections from someone’s stash. This is one of the most exciting ways to buy cheap fabric because you never know what you’ll find.

Just remember to inspect the fabric for stains or odors before you buy. Many quilters have built their fabric collections by sourcing fabrics from these sales, and you can do the same.

Note: Arrive early for the best selection, but check back later in the day for deeper discounts.

Community Groups and Swaps

Community groups and fabric swaps are fantastic if you want to save money and connect with other quilters. Many people ask, What are your strategies for finding inexpensive quilt fabrics, Joining local or online groups is always high on the list.

These groups, including Facebook fabric destash groups, let you trade unused or leftover fabric scraps with others. You can refresh your stash without spending much, or sometimes nothing at all.

Facebook fabric destash groups are especially popular. You can join these groups to swap, sell, or buy fabric from other quilters. This is one of the most effective ways to buy cheap fabric, as you get access to a wide variety of prints and colors.

Local crafting events and online forums also offer fabric swaps, helping you find new materials and make friends in the quilting community.

These swaps help reduce fabric waste and keep your costs down. Networking with fellow crafters through Facebook fabric destash groups or local meetups means you always have a fresh supply of fabric scraps. This approach not only saves money but also supports a sustainable quilting practice.

Tip: Stay active in your favorite groups and swaps. The more you participate, the more likely you are to find great deals and unique fabrics.

If you want a reliable source for quality and value, Fanda Fabrics offers affordable options for quilters. Their quilting fabric bundles and collections make sourcing fabrics easy, especially when you want both variety and quality at a good price.

Buy Cheap Quilting Fabric Online

Shopping online opens up a world of options when you want to buy cheap fabric for your next quilt.

Even though a 2025 survey shows that only 22% of quilters purchase fabric online compared to 51% who shop in local stores, you can still find some of the best deals on the internet. Let’s look at the top ways to buy cheap fabric without leaving your home.

Fanda Fabrics Quilting Fabric Bundles

If you want convenience and value, Fanda Fabrics makes it easy to buy cheap fabric. Their quilting fabric bundles give you a curated mix of colors and patterns, so you don’t have to spend hours searching for matching pieces. You get high-quality cotton in pre-cut sizes like fat quarters and charm packs.

This is one of the smartest ways to buy cheap fabric because you save both time and money. You can explore their bundles for everything from modern designs to classic prints. Fanda Fabrics updates its selection often, so you always have fresh choices for your projects.

Tip: Pre-cut bundles help you avoid waste and make it simple to start a new quilt right away.

Online Marketplaces

You can find quilt shop bargains on several online platforms. Each marketplace offers something unique, whether you want bright prints or affordable basics. Here’s a quick look at some popular options:

You can compare prices and shipping deals to find the best ways to buy cheap fabric. Many quilters use these sites to score quilt shop bargains and unique prints that local stores may not carry.

Clearance and Remnant Sales

Clearance sections and fabric remnants are goldmines for budget quilters. Stores like Joann’s often offer remnants at 50% off the regular price, and you can find pieces up to a yard, perfect for quilting. You might also spot 40% off coupons, making it even easier to buy cheap fabric.

Hancocks-Paducah lists brand-name quilting fabrics starting at $3.99 per yard, with extra sales for 20% off. Local quilt guilds sometimes sell fabric by the pound, which feels practically free.

• Remnants and clearance racks in local quilt shops or “back rooms” often hide the best deals.

• You can stock up on fabric remnants for future projects without spending much.

Note: Always check the sale and remnant bins first. You never know what treasures you’ll find for your next quilt.

Cheap Fabric for Quilting Alternatives

Repurposed Materials

You don’t always need to buy new fabric to make a beautiful quilt. Many quilters love to repurpose old clothes or home textiles as cheap fabric for quilting. You can dig through your closet for 100% cotton shirts, chino pants, or even denim jeans. These items often become the stars of memory quilts or add a personal touch to your next project.

Some quilters even use uniforms, baby clothes, or costumes, turning them into pillows or quilt blocks. If you have tiny scraps left over, don’t toss them! You can sew them together for pincushions, throw pillows, or even festive decorations.

Repurposing fabric not only saves money but also keeps your projects unique and eco-friendly.

Tip: Always check the fabric content and condition before you cut. Look for sturdy, clean, and mostly cotton materials for the best results.

Scrap Quilting

Scrap quilting is a smart way to use every last bit of fabric. Instead of buying the latest fabric lines, you can dig into your scrap bucket and create something amazing. Mixing solids and prints from leftover projects gives your quilt a one-of-a-kind look.

You can even sew smaller scraps together to make larger pieces for quilt blocks. Many quilters swap scraps with friends, which adds variety and helps you find cheap fabric for quilting without spending extra. Using scraps for borders, bindings, or even quilt backs stretches your budget and keeps waste to a minimum.

• Combine leftover blocks to make quilt backs.

• Use muslin or thrifted sheets as background fabric.

• Try crumb or string quilts to use up even the tiniest pieces.

Using Sheets and Linens

Old sheets and linens can be a great source of cheap fabric for quilting, especially for quilt backs. You might find these at thrift stores or in your own linen closet. Sheets are usually large, so you get a lot of fabric for very little money. However, keep in mind that sheets often have a lower thread count than quilting cotton.

This means they might wear out faster or feel less smooth. Always pre-wash sheets and linens to remove any extra dye and shrinkage. If you choose high-quality, gently used sheets, you can still make a cozy and affordable quilt.

Note: Quilts made from standard quilting fabrics usually last longer and keep their color better than those made from old sheets. Use sheets when you want to save money, but pick the best ones you can find.

Sales, Coupons, and Bulk Buying

Timing Purchases

If you want to save money on quilt fabric, timing your purchases can make a big difference. Fabric stores do not always follow a set schedule for sales, so you need to stay alert.

Some of the best deals pop up around Black Friday or during local quilt shop anniversary events. You might also notice that seasonal fabrics go on sale right before or after the season ends. Discounts can be huge—sometimes 40% to 75% off at places like Hobby Lobby.

• Watch for sales when you actually need fabric.

• Check clearance sections and marked-down bolts, which can drop as low as $3 per yard.

• Hobby Lobby often runs sales every other week, so it pays to check back often.

Tip: Sales are unpredictable. If you see a great deal, grab it before it’s gone!

Loyalty Programs and Newsletters

Joining loyalty programs and signing up for newsletters can help you score extra savings. Many fabric stores reward loyal customers with special coupons and early access to sales.

You might get a 10% coupon that stacks on top of a 20% sale, which means even more money stays in your pocket. Newsletters often include exclusive offers, free shipping codes, and alerts about upcoming promotions.

Loyalty programs can boost your savings by 10% or more, especially when you combine them with other discounts. You get the inside scoop on flash sales and special events, so you never miss out on a bargain.

Note: Always check your email for new coupons before you shop. Stacking deals is one of the easiest ways to cut your fabric costs.

Bulk Discounts

Buying fabric in bulk can lead to big savings, especially if you quilt often or share with friends. Many stores offer tiered discounts, such as 15% off when you buy 10 yards or 25% off for 20 yards. These deals add up fast, especially when you combine them with sales or loyalty rewards.

• Team up with quilting friends to split large orders.

• Use bulk discounts for quilt backs, borders, or group projects.

A little planning goes a long way. When you time your purchases, use loyalty perks, and buy in bulk, you stretch your quilting budget and get more fabric for less.

Fanda Fabrics Quilting Collection

If you want to make beautiful quilts without spending a fortune, you’ll love the Fanda Fabrics Quilting Collection. This collection brings you high-quality fabrics at prices that make sense for your budget. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned quilter, you’ll find options that fit your style and your wallet.

Precut Bundles for Value

Precut bundles from Fanda Fabrics are a real game changer. You don’t have to buy yards and yards of fabric just to get a mix of colors and patterns. Instead, you get a coordinated set of fabrics, already cut into handy sizes like fat quarters, jelly rolls, or layer cakes. Here’s why these bundles are such a smart choice:

• You save money because you only buy what you need, not extra yardage that sits unused.

• You skip the hassle of matching fabrics yourself. Each bundle comes with colors and prints that work together.

• You save time since the fabric is already cut and ready to use.

• You get flexibility for different projects, from quick baby quilts to more detailed designs.

• You can mix and match pieces for unique looks or stick with the bundle for a cohesive quilt.

• You choose the bundle size that fits your project and budget.

Tip: Precut bundles help you start quilting right away, so you spend less time prepping and more time creating.

Variety and Quality

You want choices, and Fanda Fabrics delivers. The Quilting Collection covers a wide range of materials, patterns, and precut options. Take a look at some of the possibilities:

You also get to pick from fabric types like calico, muslin, fleece, gingham, jersey, linen, poplin, velvet, and more. Precut options include fat quarters, jelly rolls, charm packs, and layer cakes. No matter your project, you’ll find something that fits your vision.

With Fanda Fabrics, you get quality you can trust and variety that sparks your creativity. You don’t have to compromise—just choose what inspires you and get quilting!

Maximizing Your Fabric Budget

Mixing Scraps and New Fabrics

You don’t need a huge budget to make a quilt that stands out. Mixing scraps with new fabrics lets you create something unique and save money at the same time. Start by digging into your stash for leftover pieces from past projects.

Pair those with a few new prints or solids to tie everything together. This approach gives your quilt a personal touch and helps you use up every bit of fabric.

Many expert quilters suggest getting creative with what you have. Try using inexpensive household items as quilting tools. For example, a plastic eyeglass case makes a handy travel sewing kit. Flexible chopping mats can stand in for template plastic.

Even contact paper works for making stencils. You can also repurpose things like silicone potholders for pressing or bubble wrap to protect your quilt sandwich during basting. These tricks help you stretch your budget and make the most of your fabric scraps.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment. Sometimes the best quilts come from mixing unexpected colors and textures.

Smart Storage and Organization

A good organization helps you save money and avoid waste. When you keep your fabric visible and easy to reach, you’re more likely to use what you already own. Try rolling or folding fabric and stacking it on open shelves or in clear bins. This way, you can see your options at a glance.

Here are some simple ways to organize and maximize your stash:

• Keep a reusable bag near your sewing area to collect scraps for charity projects.

• Slow down and measure carefully before cutting to avoid mistakes.

• Plan your projects before buying new fabric to prevent impulse purchases.

• Donate or sell fabric you no longer love through local groups or online marketplaces.

• Use affordable storage solutions, like toothbrush holders for marking tools or small cutters.

If you have fabric you’re unsure about, set it aside for a while before deciding to donate. Taking inventory of your supplies also helps you avoid buying duplicates. When you manage your stash well, you spend less and enjoy quilting even more.

Conclusion

You can quilt on a budget with a little creativity and some frugal quilting tips. Try upcycling old clothes, shopping at thrift stores, and joining fabric swaps. Keep your stash organized, buy only what you need, and focus on skill-building over expensive materials. Here’s a quick list to help you save:

• Plan your purchases and check your stash first.

• Use scraps and repurposed fabrics.

• Hunt for deals at sales, swaps, and online.

• Choose versatile fabrics and precuts.

Share your favorite strategies below—your ideas might inspire another quilter!

FAQ

How do I know if a fabric is good for quilting?

Look for 100% cotton with a tight weave. Give the fabric a gentle tug. If it feels sturdy and doesn’t stretch much, you’re good to go. Always wash and press before you start cutting.

Can I mix different types of fabric in one quilt?

Yes, you can! Mixing fabrics adds texture and interest. Just remember, fabrics with similar weights and care instructions work best together. Test a small piece first if you’re unsure.

Where can I find the best deals on quilting fabric online?

You’ll find great deals in clearance sections, remnant sales, and fabric bundles. Check out Fanda Fabrics for affordable, high-quality options. Sign up for newsletters to catch exclusive discounts and flash sales.

What’s the best way to store my fabric stash?

Fold or roll your fabric and keep it in clear bins or on open shelves. This way, you can see everything at a glance. Label your bins by color or project to stay organized.

How do I avoid wasting fabric when quilting?

Plan your projects before you cut. Use scraps for smaller blocks or borders. Measure twice, cut once. Keep leftover pieces for future projects or swap them with friends.