Jeanne S

I have only been to one quilt show so am not much help. All I bought was a couple of packages of batting on sale the last day. I looked for things that I had never seen before or couldn't get locally, but really didn't see much that appealed to me. I think I got tired after all the walking around looking at the quilts which was my main focus.

Maggiemay

I've been wanting to make a food jar quilt. The last show I was at I collected a bunch of food fat quarters from different vendors. It was nice having so many choices in one spot. I had been trying to match a certain red for a quilt & was able to find the perfect match at a show too.

Grammahunt

I always make a list of what I am shopping for or have been wanting when I go to a show. That helps keep me from what I call passion purchases (stuff I really don't want and never use). As I get older and more experienced it is more difficult to find anything new and/or anything I really want. I'm now busy trying to clear out my (new) sewing room of stuff I don't want and don't use. But the minute I get rid of a tool I find a use for it! Go figure!

I, too, am interested in what Onebyone uses those 18 inch batting squares for. I have seen them for years but have no idea why people buy them.

maminstl

I like to keep an open mind, and plan to spend a little money on whatever strikes my fancy - I'm a sucker for a good demo, so will buy patterns, rulers or other gadgets. I've never bought fabric, but I don't really like looking at it in that environment, and from what I have seen, no bargain. In particular, if Deb Tucker is doing a demo, there is little chance that I will get out of there without buying something

Tartan

I would be interested in finding a thick ruler foot for my domestic sewing machine. I would pick up a set of thick quilt rulers to go with it for ruler work. Sure wished they made a thick ruler foot for my Bernina!

Onebyone

Oh my goodness! I use the batting squares for all types of items. They are perfect for QAYG, cut into smaller squares for rag quilt batting, piece four pieces together for a long table runner or square wall hanging, making throw pillows quilted tops, perfect for practicing fmq, tote batting, the list goes on. The last baby quilts I made I used the batting tape to tape six blocks together for wool batting. The six squares cost about .25 each. Maybe went up in price since my last purchase. I buy all I can carry at one time.

ManiacQuilter2

Hi Lynnie. I always look for the unusual that I don't see at my local stores. Just have fun and take a camera for later inspiration!!

thimblebug6000

And if you see an item made up that you love and they sell the pattern, buy it. Don't think you can remember it for later

Crqltr

I usually buy supplies for my embroidery machine..bobbins, stabelizers, ect. Cheaper to buy larger quantities and not much choice where I live.

lynnie

great answers. I go to a few a year, and never know what to buy. but I like the idea of getting things I can't buy at home. thanks everyone.