Thrift Haul - Alternate Fabrics at My Local Thrift Store Other Than Men's Dress Shirts

[@heatherpike5230]

Interesting little fact on colour. Greens are tricky because the human eye can see more shades of green than any other colour. It's an evolutionary thing, so we can identify which plants to eat.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

OMG! I’m not supposed to have favorites, but this is my favorite comment today! ❤️ You know I love learning, and am insatiably curious, so this is super exciting to me! *immediately goes on Google deep dive of green color theory* Thanks for sharing!! ❤️

[@AnitaSouthall]

As a horticulturalist I am definitely interested in identifying all kinds of green stuff. Trees 🌳 🌲 🌴 especially. As a picture framer I worked with colours in artwork, now as a quilter that experience helps to train my eye.

[@homesteaderfiftywmartha603]

And I don’t believe in evolution , yet I love green!

[@jwestfalldavis3574]

True confession here. During the pandemic I made a mask out of some of my brother's boxers (found in his deceased wife's scrap bag) to make for a guy who jilted me years ago. I am laughing because he mailed me a check for it. If he only knew:)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

LOL! 😂

[@jodylatwesen5487]

You are a hoot! I mean this in the best way possible! I love going to the thrift store and I’ve noticed that usually there’s not a lot of crafty items. I would love to open up a thrift store that specializes in arts and crafts. But it wouldn’t be just about selling items, I would incorporate space for classes so people could come in and try something new without paying a fortune. So many people think that they are going to like a hobby and then when they try it, they don’t like it. I think it would be so much fun for a community to get together and share their talents with others, and share how to live a little greener by using things for unconventional ways.

[@pamd6532]

I thought this exact thing yesterday!

[@rhondahenderson9327]

I love buying linen fabric at thrift stores. I always go down the aisles with women's dresses, shirts, and skirts. I will often find a longer length dress with tons of usable fabric. I have gotten 100% linen shirts or dresses for as little as 75 cents!!

[@faintlyartistic7803]

Nice haul! I recently found an XL men's dress shirt that looks like Liberty of London fabric (which i love but would never buy due to price). It definitely came home with me! I made an entire quilt, dust ruffle and valance for one of my boys out of plaid men's pj pant legs. I turned them into pj shorts for my 3 boys and used the leg fabric. Almost all of my clothing comes from the thrift stores, and I am frequently complimented at work 😜. Your sense of humor cracks me up! I would happily thrift shop with you anytime!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness...if I found a Liberty of London-like shirt, I would snatch it up too! 🤩 I love the quilt-from-pjs idea! I bet they loved it! Glad I can make you laugh!🥰 And thank you...we would have fun, no doubt!!❤️

[@jonnaosborne1832]

You just have to be in the right place at the right time, and in the right frame of mind! I don't thrift EVERY week, but just when I take a notion. I moved to a new town and the first time I went to a certain thrift store, I found THREE men's ties made out of Liberty of London fabrics. They are SO pretty and flowery, which may explain why it appeared they had never been worn (by the man for whom they were presumably purchased). I take apart men's neckties all the time (I prefer the 100% polyester over silk), but I am really reluctant to deconstruct those ties, even though I know they will make a lovely addition to something made with men's shirts - or maybe even making over a man's shirt to fit me, and adding some of those Liberty fabrics.

[@lynne-marieheidebrink1847]

I really enjoy your videos as well. I’ve learned a lot and they always make me smile.

[@razzmatazz1974]

I have a lot of boxer underwear fabric that is great, but its a leftovers bag that a friend picked from the factory. The fabrics are odd shaped but the designs are great: fishes, boats, planes, bycicles, hearts, shamrocks, flags, plaids, gingham, lions, you name it. I have used squares and stripes from these fabrics in lots of projects ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

That is SUPER cool and yes, boxer fabric can be really fun! But yes, better to have the fabric from the factory than from the thrift store! 🤢😵‍💫😂

[@careya]

Good tip about checking pj section

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks! ❤️

[@sarahbaldwin9678]

I just love your videos. I am in South East England. I had never thought of using mens shirts, but what a wonderful idea. I am now eyeing up my husbands shirts for possible fabric which makes him a little nervous 😂. After watching your videos I just feel inspired to try something new, thank you for your enthusiasm it’s infectious. Sarah

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness, thank you Sarah!! ❤️🥰😊 Tell your husband he better go ahead and claim the ones he really wants! 😂 In all seriousness, tho, thank you! And I’m so glad you’ve found inspiration here…if I can provide a laugh, or inspiration or a little learning, then I’ve done what I want to do with these videos! ❤️

[@lyndaslocum7404]

Love your enthusiasm and charm

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Lynda. 🥰

[@annab8857]

Love going to thrift stores! My mother raised her kids in thrift store, rummage sales, or garage sale clothes. When we were older, she continued to get any clothes that were made from cotton! Dresses, shirts, curtains, etc. She would wash them then set up her ironing board in front of the TV (or she'd turn on the radio) and clip off buttons, zippers, patches, appliques... put them in a large jar, and iron, iron, iron to yield every crumb if cotton she could. She loved to make small quilt blocks by paper piecing (which is not MY cup of tea!). However, I now have the "catbird-bug' and I've been purchasing men's dress shirts! I am impressed with the quality of the fabric, and the versatility for using it in quilts. I am piecing g together my first men's dress shirt quilt top... I cannot wait to have it complete and on my bed! Thank you for your great videos! BTW: I love listening to your sweet southern accent! :)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness! Thank you, Anna! ❤️ If you find me on Instagram or FB, when you finish your quilt, send me a photo so I can see it! 🥰

[@dedrasmitherman7983]

“Catbird-bug!” I have it too. 😂

[@leeannlott1800]

I have watched your videows once or twice.I have been thrifting fabrics for awhile. I go straight to the linens. That ins where I buy many fabrics including yardage. That first piece white with the channels, looks like for outerware like snow jackets.

[@MsBlulucky]

This video appeared in my recommendations a few days ago and I'm so glad it did! I like sewing and thrifting but I'm not really into quilting - still you have such a happy and soothing way of talking and are a great storyteller, that I could probably watch (or rather listen to) your videos all day long 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness! Thank you!! 🥰😍 I’m so glad it did too…and that you clicked on the link and watched! 😊👍🏻❤️

[@zainylainy1]

I’ve been thrifting fabric for years. Just brought home over 6 yards of quality fabric I’m going to use as vbacking for a quilt I’m making. Also 2 king sized flat sheets.. I also found a great Panasonic iron that works perfectly. I needed a backup iron and I like this one better than my good iron! Thrift stores are so fun!

[@jonnaosborne7234]

You know that when you find something like those yellow boxers, with the tag still on, it was likely a gag gift or a gift from a well meaning family member. 😎 I have found some very fun things in thrift stores, made out of great quilting fabric, and you can tell they have not been worn very often, if at all. 😯 Also, I love weird fabric, so the thrift store is the place for me. 🥰

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Jonna, I never thought about that but you’re probably right! What a great observation! 🤓

[@HeyHeyAlabama]

Good idea. There's drawers, and then theirs drawers.

[@maegpye]

I thought the same but didn't see your comment till after I made my own comment. :-)

[@colleen-elizabeth]

I have now bought 3 men's shirts and 4 women's shirts for my husband and me at the local church thrift store that I meant to use as fabric but they were too nice and fit us both. They all looked brand new, and were expensive brand names. I am having so much fun with this! Thanks for your work.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I’m so glad you’re having fun with it! Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@katherinetutcher1718]

Everything about this is great! I made my first fabric trip to the thrift store. I scored 9 purple shirts in various prints and solids. I intended to just scope things out, but fell in love with the prints and had to bring them home.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Right?!? It’s so much more fun thank you think, and the shirts are so much prettier than you realize, and there’s so much more fabric than you anticipate! ❤️ Sounds like the perfect thrift store run! 😘

[@pamelafowler4406]

You never fail to inform and entertain! I love thrift store shopping for fabrics. On the pajamas items, I have been making memory quilts from my father-in-law's plaid flannel pajamas. They are beautiful, lots of work as every edge has to be serged or zigzag stitched. Very much a labor of love

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Pamela! ❤️🥰 what a great thing to say! And yes flannels are so soft and lovely, but you are right about it being a “labor of love.” I would have been less gracious and called it “a total pain in the butt.” 😂😘

[@juliahouse7176]

My mom taught me the nose to fingertip guesstimate and also that if you want to estimate if there is enough fabric left on a bolt every 2 times around is about a yard.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh I’ve not heard the bolt of fabric tip! So clever! 🤓 Thanks for sharing! ❤️

[@patsysingleton217]

Went thrifting today. Got 12 shirts in 10 dollar bag. I was so happy. I wash everything very well. Can't wait to get started.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

That is so exciting, Patsy! ❤️ Nothing like a big bargain help you get motivated! 😊👍🏻

[@pamelalinthompson]

What a deal!!

[@martast.john-anders6448]

I have so much to say to you, I think you should just come and visit and we will thrift and you can teach me to quilt, okay? Because here in the Phoenix metro area (I'm in Mesa) we have a GAZILLION thrift stores and I have a circle of friends who love to thrift. And craft. Bring a U-haul. Shirts, fabric, and all the crazy weird boxer shorts you can handle. 🍸🍸🍸

[@lindaharrison175]

When I buy shirts at thrift stores I always wash them and add Lysol fabric sanitizer along with the detergent in the washing machine, then rinse them a second time ... it may be overkill but it makes me feel better

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Linda, I say do whatever puts your mind at ease!! 🤓👍🏻

[@angelroost]

If you have access to a Goodwill Outlet store, sometimes referred to as "the bins", it is a great place to buy clothing to cut up for yardage. You pay by the pound. There are always lots of high end men's shirts. There is lots of yardage from a duvet...I have dozens. Or, drapery panels.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks for the suggestion-I have heard about the Goodwill outlet (and we are near one) but it is so disorganized I haven’t yet taken the plunge! 😂😊I keep waiting to a day off when I’m not totally exhausted and have quilting to do-so far that day hasn’t come! 😂But I keep meaning to go and will eventually! 🤓❤️

[@angelroost]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts It is crazy but fun. If you have a plan, know what your looking for, its quite manageable. Sometimes I can stand back and let my eyes scan a bin or watch someone else sort. When I see something interesting fly by, I go in and get it. Men's shirts are plentiful and once you do this, it will be hard to buy shirts by the piece at a regular goodwill. And yes, I have found some really cute men's underwear. The Goodwill bins is just one great big fabric store to me.

[@angelroost]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I should add, you'll have better results if you can make regular trips, say once a week. You should be able to get in and out in less than an hour. If your first trip is a bust, don't give up. And, your daughters will love it. As you can tell, I am big on this as a source for fabrics. Can't wait to hear about your first trip.

[@missitrotter7535]

My grandmother taught me that measuring trick!! I still use it to estimate yardage on random fabric I find at my thrift store. I have to tell you, I’m not a quilter, nor do I sew, but I enjoy your videos so much that I watch them anyway. I’ve always bought clothing if I like the fabric because I am a “crafter” and I use fabric in lots of things I create, so when I saw your 1st video about thrifted shirts I was hooked. Thanks for the valuable information and for delivering it with humor!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you so much!! 🥰❤️ It means so much to me especially since you don't sew or quilt!! But creatives and crafters can use fabric for anything and EVERYTHING!😂😊 Thank you for watching and commenting...so glad you're here with me (hopefully laughing along too!) ❤️

[@elizabethbossert1964]

I use the length from my fingers to my collar bone. Seems like it would be less awkward than fingers to nose 😂

[@RobinHarris61]

Happy Birthday! My goodness, I laughed so hard when you described men's boxers as a "jewel". LOL! I love the thrifted items you found. The "purple shirt" saga lives on! 🤣

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Robin! You could see me struggling to find the right word! 😂 And YES the purple shirt saga continues!! 😂❤️

[@nanavango9374]

The quilted piece you showed at the very beginning looks like batting for a thermal “warm” window shade. The Xs or crosses were marks for adding rings for Roman style shades.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Could be! Great suggestion!!! 😊👍🏻

[@blairseibert1778]

I look at the drapes, tablecloth and sheet sections too.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I do too!! Although I rarely end up getting anything except maybe sheets to use as backing fabric!

[@silver_csmith]

Happy Birthday!! 🎉🎂🥰 Also I love your shirt 😆👌🏻 And the random fabrics. I love checking out the thrift stores for random bits ☺️

[@apache-yaquibrown4060]

I always find collections of sunbonnet sue's, and frequently hand embroidered blocks. my mother incorporates them into her quilts, people are impressed.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Charity. ❤️ Yes, isn’t that shirt fun?! I love finding weird/crazy/funny stuff at the Thrift store…it can be so entertaining!

[@lindaherrington6291]

Another great video, sounds like you had a lot of fun with your daughter on this haul. Is it wrong that I'm constantly looking at the shirts of men who pass me by now 😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Linda, it is so RIGHT! And I do the same! 😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh and thank you!

[@nicolebeauchamp7622]

I do that too.

[@moonlightcrafter6299]

Sounds perfectly normal to me! 😂

[@vanillayogurt5650]

I am constantly looking at men’s shirts now and saw a guy working at the bookstore that had the prettiest floral. Immediately wondered if he ever donated his clothes and was really tempted to ask him!!!

[@saraborisch5343]

I, too, am a Winter and knew immediately what you were talking about. So funny. I am thankful you and your daughter made a good memory and laughed a lot. Life is good!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You are so right…life IS good. And don’t we all need that reminder these days! 😘 My daughter and I DID have such a great experience and I’m glad we did, too! Winter-love it!! ❤️

[@marydunn4827]

Love your daughter’s graduation quilt hanging behind you. And love your videos ❤️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh thank you, Mary! It's coming together finally! ❤️ (so glad you loved the video too!)

[@maryhollenbach4966]

It’s my birthday today, I’m spending most of my day, organizing cutting up scraps donated to our guild. Then ice cream with a friend. I love retirement!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Happy birthday!!! I long for what you have (retirement) right now…so enjoy it on my behalf until I can get there for myself! ❤️

[@suswilli]

Guess what! Getting your colors “done” is back! My daughter just did it through Color Guru. She’s also a winter🙂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

No kidding! 😂 Well how awesome and funny and cool is that?!? ❤️

[@cherylharris8632]

Love your channel!! Happy Birthday🎉🎉

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Cheryl! ❤️🥰

[@tearose3763]

I have an exact match your 2 tiny flower print in green on cream!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh cool! 🤩

[@yvonneallan1020]

I am a quilter of unconventional fabrics. I use anything that will wash well, including knits because the final result is all about the colors in the quilt. Scrubs are also a wonderful source. The ones that are not over washed/used have a ton of large blocks of fabric.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Love it!! ❤️ I definitely look through the scrub section but I just haven’t found a lot of prints I like….but I always look! 😊 Thanks for commenting-always great to find a kindred spirit! ❤️

[@bonniecole801]

I use the shirt cuffs for temporary curtain tie, usually gathering my sheers to let in more light. Also good for shower curtains when cleaning. Looking around, I can see using on any gathering of cords or broom/mob handles.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

What a great idea! 🤓 Thank you for sharing!!❤️

[@sharon1934]

I saw someone who made little coin purses or gift card holders from cuffs. Just sew closed along the long edges and button closed

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

@@sharon1934 clever! 🤓

[@romonaelrod7870]

I am a winter too. I had the color me beautiful book back in the 80's. When I worked at a fabric store in 1982 some customers came in and bought fabric to set up their business doing the color me beautiful. My mom used the nose to fingertip trick to measure fabric too.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Apparently several of the things I mention in this video resonate with a lot of us! And there are a LOT of us “winters” out there! 😍😊🤩

[@romonaelrod7870]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I am a Southern girl too. I was born in Southern California but I live in North Carolina. My momma is from NC.

[@kathyelliot9795]

Omg. Love love all the fabric!!! And the funny stories!!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh thank you, Kathy!❤️🥰😊

[@julietierney2516]

I wish the thrift store near me had fabric. I have been using shirts for fabric for years and years. I love the quality and the variety for 100% cotton. And I like that I'm re-using and making something pretty. Love your videos.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

The thrift store near my house doesn’t have fabric…I think that’s why I was so pleased that we found one that did! ❤️ and I agree…giving clothes new life as a pretty quilt: the BEST. So glad you are enjoying the videos! ❤️

[@julietierney2516]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I have to stop myself from cutting up my husband's good shirts. He's a clothes horse and wears suits and ties to work...I am so tempted...but...I hold myself back!

[@TheJanetFletcher]

Great haul! Pretty sure I had that dusty pink fabric years ago. I think the soft quilted fabric is leftover from making a guaze quilt or blanket. They are popular for babies. And yes, my mama taught me the measuring method. :)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

You know several years ago I’d have passed by that pink fabric! But now I see “baby quilt backing fabric” 😂 I think you might be right about the quilty thing…I wouldn’t have thought “gauze” but now I think it might be. Glad to know I’m not alone measuring fabric with my nose! 😂

[@catmansfishwife4ever506]

The really soft fabric is Japanese double gauze. It’s sold by the yard like that.

[@gisellejones1139]

Oh my gosh! Colour me Beautiful...l'm a winter too and l think l still often follow that colur palate ( not sure thats the right word) unconsciously...lol Love the finds

[@alexakvande448]

I think you mean "palette." The other spelling means the roof of your mouth - lol.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Giselle-right?!? I rarely buy anything out of my color palette too, but it is definitely not a conscious decision! Thank you-it was a fun thrift store run this time! ❤️

[@nadinamedlin3432]

I grew up in Memphis, but Mama's folks were from north Alabama. Your accent makes me happy! Mama sewed clothes and I did her hand finishing. She taught me the measuring trick. Thanks for sharing!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww thank you, Nadina!❤️🥰 Thank you for commenting!

[@dutch1247]

Happy Birthday !!! And thanks for a great video on your thrift store haul. ( I am also a winter) and maybe that’s why I like all the colors you select. I have just started to collect mens shirts and when I cut off the cuff I safety pin them together and throw that into my purse. If I run across another thrift store, I have my shirt samples with me. It’s worked out well and wanted to pass along my tip. Keep the videos coming, I love them all.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

OK I LOVE the cuff suggestion!!! So clever! 🤓 Invariably when I go shopping I think "will this match that pink shirt I bought?" Love the problem-solving and creativity. Thank you so much for the birthday wish and for your kind words about my videos!🥰❤️

[@argyle2061]

Nothing better than giggling with one’s mom. Mine is 86, so I am plenty old enough to remember “Color Me Beautiful.”

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

That is SO true! Some of my fondest memories of my own mom were when we were out and about and get tickled over something and laughed about it for the rest of the day! ❤️

[@sueharber2496]

Great video - loved the idea of the existential crisis quilt 😂😂😂😂 Your daughters graduation quilt behind you looks so beautiful - love the colour placement x

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh thank you, Sue!! I finished the quilt top last week..she is very excited about it! ❤️ I’m so glad someone else enjoyed the concept of the existential crisis quilt 😂😂😂 as you know, we have a quirky sense of humor in our house. Not sure anyone else would think it was funny too!😘

[@gina8330]

I would have a hard time buying the boxers if they didn’t have a new tag on them. I almost feel the same way about the pj pants because aren’t they just boxers with long legs? Men are probably not wearing underwear under them. Ick.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Ok Gina…I did NOT need that visual! “Ick” is right!! And I actually laughed out loud at your comment! 😭🤣😂 Actually I’m still laughing AND grossing out! LOL Thanks for commenting and making me really laugh today! I LOVE IT. ❤️

[@jennjennedington279]

HAHAHAHA! Yes ewwwww

[@user-vq4vf7hp9e]

I love her!!!!!

[@garnettasmith1717]

Love the shirt!

[@Siennaflower]

I'm 66, and I remember Color Me Beautiful!! I didn't spend the money back then to get my "official" designation, but I figured out I was a Spring, I think. Since my hair started turning white a few years ago, I wear completely different colors than I used to--and enjoy the variety! I always loved shopping at thrift stores. When you're a creative crafty person, there's so much scope for the imagination there, while spending pennies! My recent purchases there in the last six years have been 16" porcelain dolls and things to use in the doll village I have created for them. ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I'm not ready to go totally gray (but I don't want to cover them up, either) but if I go white, I'll be wearing some seriously bright colors and rocking that look! So good for you!🤩 And you're right, we creatives can find inspiration easily at the thrift store!! Thanks for watching and for commenting! 😊

[@Siennaflower]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I actually used to wear a lot of bright colors and preferred gold, with my blond/brown hair. Now with white/gray, I wear a lot more neutrals, black & white, gray, and silver! But they're all pretty youthful, including the BTS merch I wear to support my beloved international Kpop boyband!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

@@Siennaflower that’s FANTASTIC! 🤩

[@maryhollenbach4966]

You have such cool daughters.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

They are very fun and very bright and they are their own people-trying my best to just help them be who they really are as individuals. Which is harder than it seems like it should be! But also very rewarding. ❤️

[@argyle2061]

Yes. 36” from nose to outstretched hand!!

[@robinblack3865]

I remember attending a class, I'm a summer, don't look good in black, gold, pastels. Only blues, I love, maroon, greens, silver, and brown!

[@rogerpeggywheat1630]

Just to let you know, you are officially my new BFF! Wish we could shop the thrift store together. What fun. I enjoy you so much!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thank you, Peggy! 🥰❤️ I bet it would be fun!!

[@merriebaldwin]

One of my dearest friends has a thrift fabric store called Lucky Deluxe. Tons of fabric, laces, notions, patterns, et cetera. A way to keep sewing and doing crafts but be environmental and Earth friendly and save a lot of money by supporting 2 women versus a big box store.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I cannot tell you how much I love this! If they were in my area, I’d probably be their number one customer! ❤️ Kudos to them…and thanks for sharing! 😊

[@pamwalker7307]

I love it! I am currently collecting men’s dress shirts for a quilt. I only have blues now so I hope to find some yellows, greens and pinks in the same soft tones. Shirts at my thrift stores are $6-7, so I have been checking estate sales. I love the purple shirts you have. Maybe a plaid quilt in purple! Lol I think boxers might be a bridge too far for me too. Glad you found some WITH TAGS!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Right?!? Thank God for the TAGS! 😂😂😂 The fabrics your are compiling for your quilt sound so pleasing and lovely to me. ❤️ I’m sending all the good vibes that you will stumble on all of them so you can make that quilt that you are imagining! 🤩😊😍

[@KRLCstudio]

Hey Pam, you could also try looking at cotton bed sheets for colors too. I buy bed sheets at thrift stores for my quilt backings. Way cheaper, and like Kathy says, you find fabrics that you will never find in a quilt store. Best of luck! 😉😄

[@purplemagicquilting]

I love purple my favorite color. I've been measuring like that for 35 years. It's very close to accurate for me to. Love watching you. If you have a Deseret industries or DI as they are referred to. They are LDS thrift stores. Probably my favorite store. Since they dress up nice for church so many nice shirts, and raising 4 boys nearly the same age all of their pants come from there. From dress pants to jeans.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh how interesting! I’ve never heard of DI (not a lot of LDS churches in the Deep South) but now I’m intrigued! I’ve never been a big purple fan but that seems to be changing! 😂 Thanks for the comment! ❤️

[@winonadavies9201]

DI for the last 45 years! My kids dreaded my trips to the DI and wearing second hand clothes, but my daughter-in-law just sent me a Tik Tok on making baby rompers from thrifted men's shirts, so another great use for those XL shirts.

[@carolg.6838]

Happy Birthday to you! I understand your daughter. My sister would say Walmart was overstimulation. The mystery fabric, you could use it as a base to sew and flip strips of fabric. Cut as you wish. It's already quilted! Or might be fun to dye it. Oh yes, Color me Beautiful ! The shirt is perfect on you. I have told people recently about the book. The last many years people talk about "having their colors done".

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Carol! And that's a great suggestion! ❤️

[@KariGibsonArt]

That is a great haul, I wish our prices were as good here. I am laughing at the existential crisis quilt. That may have to happen, LOL! I remember "Color Me Beautiful" - I was a winter too!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

So glad you appreciate the “existential crisis quilt”…not everyone gets our sense of humor. I honestly haven’t realized until now how much Color Me Beautiful still influences my clothes and makeup choices. That was 35 YEARS ago! What the what?!? 😂😂😂

[@JohannaVanWinkle]

That is an interesting purple colored shirt! Good find!

[@btuller1772]

Happy birthday. Got my hair done this week after work. My favorite thrift store is just around the corner so I stopped by. Didn't have a ton of time to look around but I still walked out with 5 men's dress shirts. Should have picked up the 3 brand new Abercrombie & Fitch XXL Men's dress shirts that were there. It was great fabric but I wasn't thinking. Someone was blessed with three brand new shirts for $4.30 each. I did walk out with 2 button down Ohio State shirts. I live in Columbus Ohio. Over the years I've collected quite a few Ohio State clothing items that, when I'm done wearing them, will make a cool quilt.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you!! 🥰❤️ sometimes I walk in the thrift store with the no-expectations-I’ll-just-look mentality and that is always when I find EVERYTHING! 🤩😂👍🏻 So fun. Glad you found some Ohio State merch shirts…that will be a cool quilt! 👍🏻

[@lyndaslocum7404]

Some people sell things like the new shirts. Sometimes, they get a lot of money for them.

[@btuller1772]

@@lyndaslocum7404 You are so right. I've been watching reseller videos. Not ready to jump in yet but maybe someday. I'm thinking it might make a good retirement business.

[@lynnthomas7275]

I buy the majority of my clothes in thrift stores (charity shops in the UK). When people comment on my clothes and ask where I got them, I say "Unique Boutique". Sounds very upmarket, lol

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

“Unique Boutique!” Funny and clever!! 😂 It’s amazing how we can pair a secondhand article of clothing with something from our own closets and make it look fresh and new! I love that about thrift store shopping! Thanks for your comment! ❤️

[@nancyshaner8548]

Love thrifting. I remember Color Me Beautiful. I still go by that for my colors. It works for me.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Me too!! Thanks for watching and commenting!! ❤️

[@moonlightcrafter6299]

Happy Birthday! Our little family of three is about 80% clothed from the thrift store. I buy underclothes new because... ick... and shoes new as well as hubby and I both have huge, wide feet. We also have a resale business so always looking for stuff to resell and I make rag quilts from old jeans and flannel. Plus I pick up the hideous double-knit polyester fabric when I can find it as I'm trying to replicate a comforter from my childhood (and I like the funky designs). So a thrift store trip for me is literally a mixed bag of goodies. I wash all clothes and fabric as soon as they come home.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you! (I started to put "Thank you, Bargain!" and then I thought, that doesn't look or sound right. LOL!) I don't typically buy undergarments either--thank God for "new with tags!" I generally wash all clothes and fabric immediately as well (and regret it when I don't!😳😱) And I believe in the power of hot water and vinegar, if it's needed! That's very cool about rag quilts from jeans and flannel! 😍🤓 I bet they feel amazing! 🥰

[@moonlightcrafter6299]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I really need to see if I can change my name as it was originally intended as a gardening channel. 😂 The denim and flannel quilts are comfortable or so I've heard, mine is still awaiting completion though my daughter occasionally let's me snuggle under hers. I don't use any batting in them as they're warm enough without and the looks of batting sticking out is a little too primitive for me (reminds me of the Scarecrow from the Wizard of Oz). 🤣

[@JohannaVanWinkle]

OMG! The men's boxer shorts with martini glasses! Too funny!

[@leerobs1118]

Hi from South Africa 🇿🇦 we don't have thrift stores here and ice watched UK videos where they share fabric and donate etc. I'm feeling a bit sorry for myself 😢 now. But at least my husband's cupboard is full... I'm ok for a while then need to get creative 🎉😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Hi (from America 🇺🇸Lee! I'm slowly catching up on comments after our break for the Christmas holidays! I hate that you don't have thrift stores there---but then again we don't have that gorgeous waxed fabric that you all have in Africa! 🤩

[@mygrommi]

Another “Winter” girl here - now with gray hair. I look washed out and sick in Autumn colors. You absolutely glow in your shirt in this video and your lipstick perfectly matches your shirt. I always use your special nose measuring technique - no idea where I learned it. Since I found your channel/videos approximately one month ago, I have found 36 mens shirts in my 3 local thrift stores. I cut a small square swatch off the bottom front of each shirt from the placket where the buttonholes are. I pin the swatches onto safety pins by color and attach the pins to a large snap ring and carry the swatches in my purse so I know what shirts I already have when I’m out thrifting. On my last couple of thrifting outings, I found many more cotton/poly blend shirts. I prefer 100% cotton. Planning a trip to the nearby big city soon and will check out even more thrift stores. LOVE your videos - keep them coming.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

thank you thank you! And I love your swatch ring idea...so clever! 🤓

[@imogenethomas1138]

Such a fun video! I’m a “Winter” also! I would absolutely wear that shirt.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Imogene! ❤️ Love those Winter gals!

[@cece624]

That’s a beautiful shirt color. I’m also a “winter.” OMG, had forgotten about the Color Me Beautiful book (I actually owed a copy).

[@celiaambrose9008]

Oh my goodness, I had a friend from church who did this Color me Beautiful palette for a group of friends. How funny! I think I was a winter too. I seldom see much at the thrift stores here that interest me. I think I might try it out this week and see what I find.

[@glynisreynolds446]

Your daughter is going to treasure that wonderful quilt 💖 I feel I need to make one 🤣🤣 Keep making the videos, they make us all smile in an otherwise less funny world 😃🇬🇧

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Glynis! I hope so! And yes, life can feel very hard these days, which is why I want people to laugh and feel loved with me here. ❤️We need it! 🥹

[@doloresboutin4597]

Just found your site & subscribed. In the 80's my employer in Atlanta had a colorist do a presentation and all participants( about 20 of us) were given a swatch book of our "colors." I, too am a "winter" and have followed the color palette, even down to my makeup selections since then. It works! A couple of weeks after the presentation, the VP stopped in the middle of a staff meeting to inquire if I had done something different. He could not figure out why I appeared different. He asked if I had changed my glasses, hairstyle, etc. The rest of the participants started to giggle cause they knew that I had changed my "color" preferences & it was very noticeable. That was 40 years ago and I still get occasional comments of how healthy & cheery I look. It is all in using flattering colors in your clothing & makeup. Found your fabric haul fascinating & encouraging. Thank you.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Dolores! I too, still (mostly) follow my color palette and I feel and look better when I do! Thanks for watching, subscribing and commenting…so glad to have you with me! 🥰❤️

[@jylromain6439]

No laughing here! I had that book and I'm a winter too. 😊Don't forget to check out children's shirts if you ever want to make a baby quilt. It would be a little scrappy due to less fabric per shirt, but they're also cheaper than men's. And the prints are adorable. Another measuring idea you may not have heard of...if you want to buy a pair of pants and don't want to try them on, fasten the waist button and then put it around your neck like a cape. If the waistband fits your neck, it will fit your waist.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Another winter girl! 😍 I love it! Funny you should mention the children's clothes...I'm working on a gingham nine-patch quilt for a friend and (at the time) I couldn't find enough variety of ginghams in the mens dress shirts section (alas now I'm inundated!) So I DID use shirts and dresses from the children's section. I'm always reluctant to share that because it is such a small amount of fabric (even for the cost) and people are kinda funny about feeling like someone is taking clothes from children. Which is not the case but those comments do crop up from time to time! What the what?!? (neck measuring!) 😂 LOL I definitely have NOT heard of this...*puts down laptop and uses neck to measure pants*...That is CRAZY and awesome!! Thank you, Jyl!! 🤩🤓❤️

[@jylromain6439]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I enjoy your videos so much. Looking forward to the next one.

[@terriyoung2389]

It looks so soft. I believe it may be an unmanufactured part of a baby blanket or baby bunting . Happy Birthday!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Terri, it is SO SOFT! 😍 Hmmm…definite possibility! Oh thank you!! ❤️

[@nicolebeauchamp7622]

A fun day out for me is visiting the op shops as we call them here in Australia. I go regularly as in several times a week and find so many treasures. I even have friends who ask me to give them a tour of the op shops in our area or send me shopping for them after specific items. Just wondering, have you ever considered making a quilt out of old jeans? I have, it makes a very heavy and durable quilt ideal for picnics or teenage boys perhaps to take camping. I used a Flannelette sheet inside rather than traditional batting. Keep showing your thrift store finds, they are lots of fun.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Nicole! ❤️ Glad you enjoyed the thrift store haul video...they are fun for me, but I'm glad it's fun for others too! You are the third or fourth person to ask or suggest I make a quilt from jeans! (so I guess that's gonna happen pretty soon 😂)

[@nicolebeauchamp7622]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I can't wait to see it.

[@mariawells8026]

There is definite truth to Color Me Beautiful. I'm a winter too. Have the book too. Cute happy video.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Maria!!❤️

[@sandracedar368]

Happy (belated) Birthday! There's no reason not to celebrate another day - or maybe the entire month! What the hay - go for it!💃🕺🍾🥂🎂🤗

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Sandra!

[@lindalosier5989]

My mom taught me that method & I use it all the time. I was explaining to my children how I measured fabric and my son did not believe that from the tip of your nose to the tip of your fingers was 36" sort of. I'm 5' 2" & he's just shy of 6' but when he measured the distance we were within a 1/2" difference of each other.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

😳😯🤩 That is so cool!

[@mygrommi]

Another “Winter” girl here - now with gray hair. I look washed out and sick in Autumn colors. You absolutely glow in your shirt in this video and your lipstick perfectly matches your shirt. I

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Yassss! Another winter girl! 😍 I bet your gray hair looks great with your winter color palette! And yes, Lord, autumn colors make me look like I'm in the throes of a stomach bug! 😂 Thank you for your sweet comment! ❤️ My mom always matched her lipstick to her shirts (she was a winter too!) so I guess that's where I learned it from!

[@redparrot9489]

The white puffy at the start … makes me think of winter jacket filler. It sure would make a skooshy coat (local Canadian lingo 🤣💕). My latest thrift target is summer “Hawaiian” mens shirts. The patterns are so bold and wonderful. My thrift store also sells fabric yardage and every time I see 3 meters for sale at ridiculous cheap prices I think how few people consider it a valuable resource. Ie you need to be a maker, have the tools and skills to use it. It’s great for us but I have a sliver of sadness too. My thrift haul of the week is a gently used fabric Coach hand bag for $19.99. 😁😎💕. Love your videos and could watch you all day talk about sewing and textiles and thrifting. 💕💕💕😍

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness! What a wonderful comment! 🥰❤️😘 It could definitely be a lining of some sort! Your thrift haul sounds amazing-congrats! 🤩 and yes just a tinge of sadness that people don’t value fabric more!! So glad you’re enjoying my videos…thanks for watching and commenting on them! ❤️

[@julieannestaub1502]

I was so thrilled to find a full size ticking stripe duvet cover in excellent shape for $4.99. It is backing the first of many quilts now :). I am a "Summer!"

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

That is a find!! And by the way, I think Summer-s are pretty rare!

[@ag6787]

Kathy, great info! Thanks!! I think the 1st fabric was leftover from a project of some sort. I never thought of checking PJ’s, great idea. I think PJ’s would be good for the binding. I do check the sheets, and found a new designer sheet in an unopened bag for $1. When I was cutting the fabric for our quilt I did some measurements which I thought was interesting, I measured the back of the XXL shirts and my findings are: Kirkland Blue, soft, 34W X31L; Ralph Lauren gingham, so so soft, 33W X34L; McDonalds white- very very rough- 32W X 32L. And you have made me sewing quilts which I have never wanted to do because it seemed too hard for me . Thanks!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

This makes me so happy AG!! Love that you are making quilts and that you are finding great mens shirt fabrics to use! Knowing how much fabric you can get from a shirt is also so helpful!! So glad you’re here with me and that you’ve found some inspiration here!❤️

[@mambakind]

PJs! Great idea! I suspect a lot of 'gift' boxers never get worn. $1.98 for 4 yards? You're killing me! I got my colors done years ago! It's amazingly true stuff. Some colors are just made for you. And I agree that the shirt is very flattering to you. This has been a fun video. Thanks a lot.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you thank you, Sarah! ❤️ I agree…gift boxers! 😂 Isn’t that incredible about the $1.98 fabric? Unbelievable! Thanks for your support of me and the channel!🥰

[@jobabs]

What a great haul! I also hit the linens and curtains area, scoping out 100% cotton items. I found a beautiful navy blue-print flat sheet ($2) that could be mistaken for a batik, can’t wait to use that in a quilt! I started making covers for cat transport cages for a local Trap-Neuter/Spay-Return (TNR) nonprofit that works to control the feral cat population, so good sturdy cottons in the drapes and curtains is always good for that. My favorite local thrift store is run by a local church and it’s so well-organized, clean, and tidy, with the generated revenues staying local to help out people in need. It’s my favorite store, hands down.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Your thrift store sounds amazing! And how cool what you do with your salvaged drapes and cotton fabrics! 🥰 The blue cotton sheet sounds fantastic! You will feel so rewarded when you use it! Thanks so much for the suggestion and for commenting! ❤️

[@sallyward9218]

This was such a fun "VLOG" - Happy Birthday by the way- I'm sure it was fun😂 Your shopping trip with your youngest brought back memories- A co- worker friend and I used to go into a nearby card shop on our lunch hour and go through the greeting cards- SHE was a card herself- and her laugh was so infectious - we laughed at cards in which I'd never have seen the humour without her - and we'd chuckle all afternoon sometimes over one card😂 . I would absolutely LOVE to shop thrift stores with you! On another note... My very first quilt (25+ years ago) was made from old blue jeans of varying colour values and blue prints also varying colour values. I cut triangles from each fabric and made squares that were "balanced out" weight wise (1/2 denim and 1/2 cotton) I used darker denim with a lighter print and lighter denim with a darker print. I placed the squares in an "ombre" fashion ( before ombré was a thing) so that the cottons went from dark to light from the top left to the bottom right / and the denims went from light to dark from the top left to the bottom right- if you catch my drift! I hand quilted each cotton triangle with a pretty 3 petal leaf pattern to soften the look of the hard lines of the triangles- and I put 3 ties on each denim triangle ( the old fashioned tied quilt style) as hand quilting the denim was not an option! I am sitting under that quilt as I type this! It is still my favourite quilt! I have had to replace the binding as it was so well warn- but the rest of the quilt is in great shape considering it's years of service. Sorry for the long winded message- but one more thing ☺️ ...I live in Canada-I went to a thrift shop the other day ("Value " Village) and headed right for the men's dress shirts- their prices STARTED at 6.95!!! The ones I liked most were between $15. & $18.!!! : So- even though sewing with men's dress shirts is not likely an option for me , I SO ENJOY your videos- they are such an inspiration for me and I'm always watching for your next one ☺️ Thank you so much❣️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you for the birthday wishes! And thank you for watching and commenting! And thank you for the kind words!! ❤️🥰😊 Laughing at cards with a fun coworker sounds like a fantastic way to spend a lunch break!😂❤️ And what a GREAT idea about your denim and cotton quilt…I may have to make something similar sometime! (And I bet the weight of it is amazing!😍🤩😊) Thanks for sharing!!

[@rogerpeggywheat1630]

I will remember to watch this video when I need a pick-me-up. Funny, funny, funny!🤣

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Lol! Thank you, Peggy!❤️

[@georgiadabinett6312]

Your videos make me laugh out loud over breakfast. Thanks for the ideas where else to look for cotton material at thrift stores.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh that is the best!! I’m so happy to make you laugh…and if you find a new source for fabric, EVEN BETTER! Thanks for watching and laughing and commenting! ❤️

[@dianescardace3687]

What fun. I would really enjoy shopping with you....anytime.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! Thank you, Diane! 🥰❤️

[@Taliesin1997]

Haha! Yes I am old enough to have been "colored" and like you I am a winter too. And funny that I have 2 shirts that are that same blue shade and I love them. So yes there is something to the concept of being a season and having certain colors that you can wear well.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I think you’re right! The winter color palette is so deeply ingrained that I don’t even think about it….I now gravitate toward those colors because they DO look better on me and I feel better wearing them. Glad to know I’m not the only one! 😊👍🏻❤️

[@privateinfo1711]

That blue shirt is your color. Seriously, it looks great on you!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness, thank you!! 🥰❤️

[@jeanetterochnowskis142]

So so funny! Love your videos. You just crack me up! The first whatever that material was...my very first thought was a pillow. I have also found fabric for very cheap at my local thrift store. I have also kept my eye out for beautiful tablecloths that could work. Not vintage though. Lol l have quite a collection of vintage tablecloths. 👍😁💕

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

So glad you laugh and love the videos! Mission accomplished! ❤️ I think I might make it into a pillow, because...well, SOFT PILLOW! I mean, who wouldn't love that! And yes, tablecloths can be so great, but I don't think I could bring myself to cut up a vintage one--obviously you can't either! 😂 And somehow I'm not surprised that you have a collection of vintage tablecloths! 😂❤️😊👍🏻

[@jeanetterochnowskis142]

I was thinking...how funny would it be to use the martini boxers as your laughing label and sign it. Too bad its a yellow that just won't go with everything! I thought they were hilarious! 🤣🤣🤣

[@sharon1934]

Color-me-beautiful Spring - I still refer to the swatches (and they are my favorites too)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I always admired and envied the Spring girls-it is such a pretty color palette! I think there aren’t a lot of “Spring’s” either, so when you see someone who can wear those colors well, they really stand out! 😍in a good way!

[@sandrathomas6244]

Love watching your videos and hearing about your daughters. I want to start sewing again and thanks to you for the inspiration!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh yay, Sandra!! ❤️🥰❤️ thanks for your sweet comment and so glad you found inspiration here! 🥹

[@maegpye]

I bet, if you find boxers with oddball illustrations on them, they were gifts given to a man from someone who thought it was a real hoot but the man thought 'no way am I wearing those!' and the got donated without ever being worn.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I think you might be right!! 😂

[@jennjennedington279]

I was up to see this fresh!!! Love love love those martini britches. A home in a quilt will be found

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

“Martini britches!” 😂 I can’t believe you got to see this when it first aired! Crazy!

[@diannplatt-roberts8692]

Loved your trip to thrift store with your daughter. Mine would never shop St one when she was younger but as she has aged she is a thrifter. I check out the scrub tops for fabrics to cut up. I've found a number that were awesome.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Funny how we change as we age and become like our mothers (and grandmothers!) 🥰❤️ Yes, scrub tops! I haven't found any good ones lately, but you know they will show up in a video when I do! 😂 Thanks so much for watching, DiAnn...so glad you enjoyed this video!!❤️

[@pamelalinthompson]

I was just out at Goodwill and bought 3 mens shirts just for fabric!! Can’t wait to cut them up!! Love your channel!! ❤️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Pamela! ❤️ I’m excited for you to break down your shirts!

[@kathysnavely1802]

Hello! I’ve seen that measuring truck used by my mom. She always had a little retractable measuring tape in her purse. I carry one too. That itchy nose thing at the end. Mom always said,” Come in if you’re nose is clean!” Of course I have to take things literally and always thought. “Who’s checking those noses? Not me!” Lol God Bless!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Kathy I lol'd at your mom's nose thing. Hilarious! My grandmother always had a measuring tape within arms reach, it seemed. I can remember thinking, what is she measuring?! Now I have prob 3 measuring tapes in 2 separate rooms and I'm still always looking for one. 😂

[@loribrock991]

Love this video. I just found some great PJ’s which will be fantastic for a baby boy quilt. Thanks for sharing.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh that's so wonderful, Lori! SO MUCH FABRIC in pj's!! 🤩 I'm excited for you!! ❤️

[@pattysolberg3618]

I do remember the book “Color Me Beautiful”. I’m a winter also. 😁

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Apparently there are a lot of us Winters out here! I love it!❤️

[@diannec8758]

Happy Birthday! Always enjoy your videos!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh thank you, Dianne! 🥰

[@KRLCstudio]

Ok, so I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your channel!!! I just binged watched all of your videos. I too create quilts and sewing projects from recycled clothes. I made a queen quilt all from men's dress shirts that has adorned our bed for 9 years now and it is one of the best ones I've ever made, and I've made A LOT of quilts. You are my kinda of person, Kathy! I LOVE your bubbly personality and your charm! Can't wait to see more of your projects and videos! 😍😍😍❤❤❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh my goodness!! Thank you thank you!! 🥰❤️ So glad you found me and watched and commented!! 😊👍🏻