Thrift Haul - July 2023 - Chasing Unicorns and Matching Designer Fabrics

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CUTTING
Spring Loaded Scissors - amzn.to/3yP2WWx
Rotary Cutter - amzn.to/3zduqGP
Self-Healing Mat - amzn.to/3IY7TRW
Embroidery Scissors - amzn.to/3cnW76L
RULERS
Grid Ruler 5" - amzn.to/3RzFQvI
Non-slip Quilters Ruler - amzn.to/3PeivhN
Biased Binding Ruler - amzn.to/3yQ4lMC
Measuring Tape - amzn.to/3uVACk9
Tailor's Chalk - amzn.to/3zcJ1SQ
PRESSING
Iron - amzn.to/3uYMBxt
Wool Mat - amzn.to/3zcXfTL
Tailor's Clapper - amzn.to/3Pst00I
Quilters Clips (for Binding) - amzn.to/3Od3QBR
Quilting Gloves - amzn.to/3RKTe0m
Sewing Machine - amzn.to/3zaWZVw
Beginner Sewing Machine - amzn.to/3zeFQdi
PENS
amzn.to/3BAPWH0

[@veronicaosborn3029]

Is it bad that I am now visiting the local Goodwill stores when I am vacationing? It’s not just me. Okay good. 😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Veronica, I lol'd! I would 100% goodwill shop on vacation!!

[@jennjennedington279]

I do it!

[@kimbetts4282]

I do too...sometimes just for a cheap book to read but also for my favourites...fabric, lace, doyleys etc ♥

[@privateinfo1711]

I'm not big on buying souvenirs, but I like buying old souvenir tshirts at thrift stores while on vacation. My favorite t-shirt is a Gulf Shores polar bear dip shirt (50 cents)! Lol

[@leslyreid4712]

@@privateinfo1711such a great idea!

[@jeanninecook6661]

I cannot believe that you have a husband who is patient enough to not only take you shopping but is patient enough to browse the store. My husband won't hardly talk to me about anything! Love your videos!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Jeannine, he is a gem for sure! Thanks for watching and commenting! ❤️

[@cazkiwinz4300]

I love thrifting denim jeans, you get such great colours and patterns! For so cheap. My hubby wouldn’t be seen dead following after me with a camera, let alone have withstood more than 2 minutes in the store behind me without complaining bitterly - yours is a darn trooper!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

My husband IS a trooper! Thanks for watching, Caz!

[@conniemurdoch8528]

That purple/blue shirt is called “shot”. It’s when two colours of threads are used in weaving the fabric.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Ahh, thank you, Connie! ❤️ You know I love learning the correct words to describe fabric!🤓👍🏻

[@kukumrocks]

Kaffe s shot cottons are the best

[@sharon1934]

I just bought some shot cottons in 5 colors, looks great but I don't care for the feel of them

[@kukumrocks]

@@sharon1934 they wrinkle easily but are great to wear on a hot day

[@judyallhands3361]

Last year I bought 10 king size pillowcases at the thrift store for $1 apiece and had enough fabric for a 78 x 66 quilt top and backing with 3 left over. But I didn't start looking for men's shirts until I started watching your videos. So Thank You.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh, Judy, you are so welcome! ❤️ So for $10 (TEN DOLLARS!!!!) you had a quilt backing AND quilt top?!! (well actually for $7!) That is incredible!! 🤩

[@yoshiew05]

Pillowcases!! Brilliant!

[@bobbihayes6048]

I’m so happy to know I’m not only…not the only one but we are a whole group of thrift appreciators! I love this haul video.

[@prosie1968]

That was so fun and I’m glad you had a buggy! I recently found a duvet cover, unwashed and felt kind of coarse and I was like that had to be polyblend. It was 100% chambray linen and under $6. I snapped it up so fast and it will be enough for a Jean style jacket and hopefully some coveralls! It pays to thrift fabric.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Prosie!❤️ And oh my goodness what a great find you had!! You had me at 100% chambray linen! 😍 Your jacket (and maybe coveralls!) will be so wonderful! I couldn't agree more--it DOES pay to thrift fabric! 🤓👍🏻

[@Cassandra-..-]

Score!

[@jbarnes1250]

Fun haul! Your discipline astonishes me. I’m trying to emulate it! I can’t believe you taught me how to really use the seam reaper after 55 years of sewing!! Vrippppp! Blessings.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you, Janet! ❤

[@djlane5213]

What? What? Please explain about the seam ripper. Inquiring minds and all that.

[@robincollins4687]

At Joann yesterday I got 11 yards of 100% Cotton for $25 plus a bunch of other things. I actually SAVED almost $8 more than I spent, $275.19 total for $134.10. 6 yds of fusible interfacing, cutting mat , rotary cutter, 20 embroidery flosses, 6 spools of thread, the Ottlite that attaches to sewing machine or is free-standing, 2 patterns, 1 pack of the small zippy bags, & 1 pendant. Think I did well.

[@zena-knittingbeans7973]

I love your bingo moments 🎉 and how well you know a shirt 😃. I have to say you have a patient hubby 🤩. Thanks for all your help 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I DO have a patient husband., Zena. He’s the BEST!❤

[@marybeth4002]

That's a real score!! - .99 for the linen panel, and it's a solid! Reading the comments from your UK friends - I feel so bad for them with their prices at thrift shops. Great shopping trip with your real 'score'... aka Paul ❤. You both are so sweet. Can't wait to see what surprises you have up your (linen) sleeve 🤣

[@juliejeavons6949]

MaryBeth it depends where you are wrt charity shop prices. My daughter is at University in York and shirts are generally over £5, £7.50 is not uncommon and I’ve even seen them over £10 for brand new, ex-store stock. Back home I usually pay between £3.50 and £5. It’s the yardage which is expensive. We don’t have many quilt stores and they’re charging £20/m for Kaffe fabrics. (FYI a metre measures 3’ 3”, it’s longer than a yard you see)

[@marybeth4002]

@@juliejeavons6949 Hi Julie, I appreciate the added information and clarification - wishing everyone a good day when thrifting.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Mary Beth, that linen price was almost unbelievable it was so good!! 🤩 And you are SO right--Paul IS the real score! I'm very blessed to have him as my life partner and best friend! ❤️

[@paulaneary7877]

WOW! Someone GAVE you some Kaffe Fassett fabrics? GAVE them to you? Amazing.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Yes, GAVE. Isn’t that remarkable and amazing and generous?!

[@heidithatcher-miller9512]

I am headed to my Goodwill Outlet today and excited to see what I bring home. It moved locations a few months ago and is now quite a drive away, which is good and bad!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Agree!🤓 It will make you value your trips there---but if in doubt, GET IT!

[@teresacesario6247]

That was so fun!!

[@frontofficed.burnell-power6288]

You can dye the organic cream coloured cotton pillow cases. What a fun shop!

[@Denise11Schultz]

Thank you, that was really fun. I’m doing some bag-making, so buying some plus size denim pants, available in so many colors. And I decided to cut off the seams with electric scissors (also available at thrift stores). That works so much better for me than picking out, both faster and doesn’t hurt my wrist and elbow. So now I use the electric scissors on lighter weight fabrics too. In case that helps anyone else to enjoy thrifting their fabric. 😉

[@andreaj2015]

I love Kaffe Fassett fabrics, especially the blues and greens. Love how you mix thrift and designer fabrics. 😅 I saw how you passed up the small bright blue shirt and I was saying “take it take it take it!!!” 😂 you have amazing patience to go through all those clothes.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I do like the blues and greens the most, too, Andrea! ❤️ And thank you!! Patience or madness--could go either way! 😂😉 (and when I'm not on camera it goes much faster!) 🤓

[@kukumrocks]

You sure do NOT procrastinate! I love your enthusiasm and your willingness to put new fabric ideas to use. I am looking forward to gleaning ideas for Kaffe and shirts! Yay you! Regards SJ

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

😘😘😘

[@eshellebennett]

my first attempt at quilting was curtains. Anna's Linen closed down and threw out all those display single panels. My stepfather grabbed up boxes or the panels that they never sold in the store. The packages thankfully were the only thing they threw red paint on when they discarded stuff. I washed everything up and stored it and went to town making pillow cases and decorative pillows. I made my sister a throw and pillow set that she displays on her couch.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

That sounds like so much fun--"went to town making pillowcases and decorative pillows" (my favorite kind of going to town!!🤩😂😍)

[@marysmithson8890]

First time watching you. I have pieced quilts for my grandkids, I had them quilted. But I do a lot of crafts, and use a lot of fabrics! And I always check the blankets, sheets & curtains at my thrift store. Haven’t thought of using shirts & slacks.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks for watching and commenting and for joining me here on YT! ❤️

[@juliebeard6424]

I occasionally go to my thrift stores when I’m looking for something’s for my crazy quilts. Also I love denim fabrics. Must go look as it’s winter here. You found some wonderful fabrics at a good price. Interesting video Cathy. I’m from Australia. I was lucky to be shown you video’s by You Tube otherwise I wouldn’t have found you at all. ❤❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

So glad you found me, Julie! ❤️

[@FoD1975]

Brilliant video, thank you! I get women’s cotton maxi dresses in XXXL sizes from charity shops (UK) at the end of the summer. So much fabric! Deb x 🤗

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Deb! ❤️ And you are right--there is SO MUCH FABRIC in a maxi dress! 🤩

[@maggiewalker9194]

Great to see you in the thrift store. I am constantly teased for calling a shopping cart a 'buggy' Keep up the great content.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Maggie! ❤️ I like "buggy" better--it has more character than plain ol' "cart."

[@barbaratamm-ross3716]

I absolutely adore fabric shopping men's shirts! And XL, 2X, 3X are awesome finds!!

[@glynisreynolds446]

Another great trip to the goodwill 👍👍 Great to see that you can find shirts that will coordinate with Kaffe Fasset fabrics 🎉🎉Can’t wait to see what you are going to make with everything 🤔 Take great care of each other 👏👏🇬🇧

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Glynis! ❤️ "Everything" is right---my goodness, I'd better get busy! 😂 Hope you're well, fully mended and happily sewing away the hours these days! 😘

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

Black fabric is always a good buy!

[@jeanettewithrow9641]

I found a set of beige linen curtains at a yard sale for 3.00. I was so excited and thought about you. Gonna use for backing. Love your videos. Thanks

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Jeanette, that is a steal! 🤩 I'm honored that you thought of me and humbled that you love our videos!❤️ (and that will make an AMAZING backing---cool AND soft! Mmmm!)

[@pammeinzer6757]

It was fun while it lasted! Thanks 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Pam!

[@susanharrell8902]

Spent 21 days in hosp w my husband. Soooo glad to be home & watching you. Love my normalcy! Thanks for your vidoes, soooo calmig!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh Susan, I'm so sorry that your husband has been in the hospital (and you there with him--it's exhausting!!) But thanks for watching and I'm glad it is calming and a source of comfort for you! ❤️

[@karonwostenholme6533]

Well done sweet, enjoy watching your video's, I'm now starting collecting cotton shirts, x to do a first ever quilt x thank you x

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh Karon! How wonderful and exciting! 🤩😍🤓 I cannot wait for you to have the thrill of finding great cotton shirts and then seeing them in a quilt (that YOU MADE!) It's hard to describe the joy! ❤️

[@freddiehansen7324]

LOL I love love Kaffe Fassett prints - I love the brightness. I love scrubs! but not for sewing - besides having some polyester in them they are also treated with an antimicrobial finish. I use them for cat beds though if the print is cute enough.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh that’s a great idea, Freddie! And yes, that polyester is a deal-breaker for me!

[@freddiehansen7324]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts Oh for me too 99% of the time - I found the most stunning turquoise men's shirt (3X to boot) and it was poly cotton but .. I grabbed it anyways the color was so nice and the shirts felt nice too, hopefully with some starch it will behave while sewing lol but it's the only poly cotton in my stash.

[@rhondahenderson9327]

I love thrifting linen. I find so much linen in dresses and skirts. I LOVE finding linen sheets!!

[@jennjennedington279]

Who gives a linen sheet to the thrift store? They will last forever! Shaking my head, I’m sure glad you got it!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Me too, Rhonda!! ❤️

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Jennifer, I thought the same exact thing!

[@jessiehermit9503]

Our Goodwill has Items for $0.99 on Mondays. So, you can get t-shirts for $0.99.

[@caitlinmatthews1401]

OOOOHHHHH...this looks good!

[@reneeshorts8565]

Yep! Hasn't even premiered yet and I already clicked "like"...Cathy always brings the good stuff!!

[@HeartWorX.Creations]

Polyester fabrics need to bound w/woven interfacing to make them “behave” when quilting…with so much cotton to pick from, save yourself time & frustration bothering with it, just my 2 cent wisdom!!

[@davidhatfield5714]

As you know, anyone who loves and buys fabrics, after a while, you soon learn a lot from just looking and touching fabric. I must touch it! I have made the mistake and brought home a cotton/poly fabric. Notice the smell of poly, when you iron it. That goes back to Goodwill😂. I buy lots of shirts, but can not bring myself to buy “used” bed linens. I go to so many estate sales I don’t need to. Very easy to find linens still in packaging. The vintage ones are the very best..great cotton quality. Also don’t forget the clearance section at dept. stores. I have found great sheets..cheap! Sorry, I too, have a lot to say😂😂(KH)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Kindred spirits: you never have to feel bad about having lots to say in my company! 😂❤️ There are some sheets that I just won't get--there is a definite "ick" factor but I soak them on hot in either vinegar or Oxyclean and dry on hot and tell myself that it sufficient. 😉😂 Also, I must touch as well. If I can't feel it, I probably won't buy it! And yes, clearance rack sheets in the dept store are great!!

[@deawallace3584]

I don't know where you live, but try to find a Goodwill that sells by the pound. Best I have seen is in south Fort Worth, Texas. Their things are high quality kind of like shopping at a TJ Max. I recently got 25 pounds of high quality quilting cotton for $25 ( Robert Kaufman, too) All their clothes and soft goods are $1 per pound! Also, I found a product called Odor Klenz that gets most of the smell out of thrift clothing...mostly works on cotton, not polyester. I am sensitive to the Goodwill smell.

[@pegasusquilts]

Okay I loved this. Like thrifting with a pal!

[@doloresnash287]

Great shopping!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Dolores!❤

[@debiogle3798]

I was at our Goodwill the other day and found a Michael Kors shirt for my husband….got home and he tried it on ….it as a slim fit. My husband has muscles. So I thought we’ll it can go in my stash…but our neighbor can wear it…so I want to give it to him but want to keep it for my fabric stash. Also got 2 plaid placemats and then turned down a large remnant of retro fabric. I’m going back next week, hoping it’s still there!

[@lauracurnan3255]

Wonderful, a new video from you! Have a great day. Hugs from Tampa!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Laura! ❤ Hope you have a great weekend!

[@redparrot9489]

The facial expression with the shirt at 7:37 … “that’s 100% cotton” …. Universal expression of joy 😁😁😁😁 (later …) .99 FOR THAT LINEN CURTAIN?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Right?!? That linen curtain!! 🤩 And I had to watch the video to see my own facial expression---you are right!!❤️🥰

[@redparrot9489]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I FELT your expression in my very soul. 💕💕💕💕

[@donaldlesmeister5862]

I enjoy "our" thrift store visits! Excellent haul today! Joan

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Joan!❤️

[@tamiduquette1592]

I saw the pink shirt before you got to it and immediately made the “oooh” sound you do. I was yelling at the tv “get it!” 😂 looking forward to seeing how you use it.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

LOL, Tami! 😂 I love that you were looking ahead down the row, and also that you know that "oooh!" sound that I make! LOVE it!❤️

[@tamiduquette1592]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts 😃❤️

[@leslyreid4712]

The blue tag zoom on the pink stripe shirt cracked me up. Paul KNEW as soon as you saw the blue tag it was going in the cart.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Lesly, I bet you're right! We didn't talk about it, but he does tend to pick up on that sort of thing! 😂😍

[@shirleykennard3571]

Rainy in Michigan and while we were driving back from New York, rain hard for 20 minutes

[@kimbetts4282]

Wow! You'd be lucky to get a metre and a bit of quilt fabric for that amount of money here in Australia. That's how expensive quilting cottons are here. Its just crazy! But like you, I hit the op-shops first...you just never know what you will find. Have a great week quilty friends ♥

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

"You just never know what you will find"---that's the beauty of the thrift store in a nutshell, isn't it?! Have a great weekend, my friend! ❤️

[@beckyscheller9358]

Love Kaffe fabrics. Cannot wait to see what you do with it

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you, Becky! ❤️

[@sharon1934]

Ive also started checking for darts

[@stefflcus]

I was *shouting* that those pj tops would go great in a quilt WITH the Kaffe Fassett fabrics even if they didn't MATCH match them. I am a bad influence. 😂😂😂 And thank you for reminding me about the Patreon. It's been so crazy around here, but I'm gonna do that this weekend. Yay!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Steff, I can believe you were shouting at the screen-and yes they probably would work even if they don’t “MATCH match!” 😂 And YAY! You know I’d love to have you in the Patreon community! ❤

[@sistersister2999]

Yes, going WITH K Fassett fabrics (as opposed to “matchy matchy”) is often the way to go! I’ve used a lot of his prints over the years. My usual sense is use lots of them together or 1-3 as pops of color. I love them all, but realize they are not everyone’s cup of tea.

[@Cassandra-..-]

No lie: I was looking at the heathery red linen shirt I was about to wear this morning and thought, “Should I keep this or send it to Cathy Martin?” 😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

That is love right there!! 🥰 Definitely wear it (but I love that you thought of me!❤️)

[@donnajohnson6566]

I was just thinking today that I have way too many linen shirts, and maybe I should donate them to Cathy for a giveaway!

[@lindalosier5989]

Great haul!! Thanks for sharing!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks for watching, Linda!❤

[@angielovett4159]

You did great! I think Kaffe fabrics are fun! I appreciate sweet subtlety too 😉

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Angie, they are fun! 😊 but also, whew! SO BRIGHT! 😂😳🤩

[@angielovett4159]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts That’s funny, I wouldn’t call it ‘bright’ . Compared to men’s shirts I’m sure it is, compared to my colorful fabric stash, it blends right in 😮☺️😎

[@valerievesper9216]

Lol the luxury shirt rack at the Goodwill. No doubt!😂😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Valerie, lol, right?!😂

[@barbaraa6098]

Wow very good prices, nice colors too.

[@janiceford-freeman3243]

I have just found you on KZbin and enjoy watching you and knowing that you are local. Have you ventured around to the back of the Green Springs Goodwill to the outlet? It can be overwhelming, but if you like to dig, treasures can be found. You pay by the pound. I started buying men's shirts for fabric when I was making masks. Everyone seemed to be using cutesy prints, and I wondered what men would wear. I figured if they'll wear a pattern on a shirt, they'll wear it as a mask. People were even donating shirts to me. I gave hundreds of masks away. I still have some remnants of favorite shirts.The most fun were Ralph Lauren shirts where I could make a mask with the polo player logo located on the front. Those went to good friends. I recently hand stitched the binding on a quilt my grandmother pieced and quilted in the forties. It was a labor of love, but now I am hooked on making small quilt squares. I have fabric that was my grandmother's as well as remnants from the shirts for mask-making. Come shop in the Eastwood area of B'ham sometime. I bought a 2xl Izod shirt yesterday at Lovelady's Thrift for $3.99, 100% cotton in a lavender gingham. I got my 30% senior discount on top of that. Lots of flannel here too. I'm a linen fan as well. I once found a full- size linen bed sheet in with the tablecloths at the thrift store. I have a lot of vintage table linens, odd napkins, dresser scarves, tiny guest towels, etc. Hmm....getting ideas.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Janice, I'm so glad you found me!❤️ I have ventured to the Goodwill outlet part, walked in, immediately felt overwhelmed and said, "nope!" out loud, laughed and walked out. lol! Maybe I'll try it on a day when I have a little more margin. 😘 I do shop the Eastwood part of town, and have found some good shirts at Lovelady, too! Some crazy shirts sometimes pop up there and they make me laugh (swiss army knives on a shirt, mustard yellow martini boxers, etc.) You just never know what you'll find. I made masks out of men's shirts too, and they are nearly perfect in weight and color(s) and softness, and you're right, often more fitting for men! Thanks for watching and commenting, and if you see me in a local thrift store, come say HI!! ❤️

[@bethliebman8169]

I love going thrifting with you! I am one of the chorus yelling "get it" (knowing nothing about your budget)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, Beth!! I love that! ❤️

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

I love that cream colored cotton….I can’t do white because our water has iron in it…..but cream…..oh, my heart…..

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I don't love cream, but it has its place in quilting for sure!!

[@bcarithers22]

My daughter has bed bug dogs. They search out and find bedbugs. She says people get bed bugs from the thrift stores. Take your shirts and throw them in the dry on hot for an hour. That should kill any bogs. Also shake out your clothes. They strip and shower and put their clothes in the dryer for an hour, too. Treating for bed bugs is expensive and difficult to get rid of.

[@lw3924]

Pottery Barn outlet stores can be a great source of linen. I bought linen drapery panels for a great price .Didn’t need drapery panels, just wanted the fabric😂.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you for the great tip! I will have to check them out! 🤩

[@RobinHarris61]

"Don't make me unfriend you" = political posts. 🤣 I love to watch your thrifting videos. That grey was a steal! 😁❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Robin, that gray linen WAS a STEAL!!!🤩 ❤️Thanks and wasn't that Snoopy thing crazy?! 😂

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

I am looking forward, which generally never do…..to leave Canada and return to FL to visit the many Goodwill stores….you have created a monster……

[@ksojerio]

Looking forward to video on yardage contained in sheets and pillowcases.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

All I needed was one person to say "I'd enjoy that!" So now I'll be on the hunt for pillowcases and sheets!❤️ Thanks, Kathryn! 🥰

[@elizabethcollins8817]

Great video!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Elizabeth!

[@TheLadyLair]

So cool

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, m'lady! 🤓👍🏻

[@clothingalterations]

Great video 🌺🍀🌹🌿🏵🌱🌻

[@robinblack3865]

Great haul😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Robin!!

[@eshannon922]

I love the KF fabric. I disagree with your description of the two fabrics. I hope you find a use for them. They are really great prints.

[@DH-qz2so]

Scrubs:... I have 8 members of my family in the healthcare/hospital industry.... if you knew what days those scrubs have seen... you may not want to cuddle in a Scrub Created Quilt! Lol!

[@kentvegplot]

Great haul , thanks for taking us along - so envious of the prices. Here in the UK, even thrift store shirts are the equivalent of around $10 each minimum. It’s still a bargain versus fabric from the store mind you 😁

[@zena-knittingbeans7973]

Hi I’m in Uk and just starting this quilting journey. Our charity shops aren’t as good. Where would you go for fabric? Also I need to do this craft on a budget 🙏🏻. Any tips gratefully received 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I have heard that from other UK viewers-I hate that fabric is so high there!!😱

[@sueharber2496]

@@zena-knittingbeans7973 Keep looking in the charity shops - bedding is sometimes the way to go - I got an egyptian cotton Dorma duvet cover from Sue Ryder for only £3, with acres of fabric! Also ask family and friends if you can have first dibs on any old clothes they are sending to charity - i get loads like that, - good luck xx

[@juliejeavons6949]

You’re going to the wrong charity shops. I’ve paid £3.50 for shirts and picked up a king size Orla Kiely duvet set for less than £10.

[@juliejeavons6949]

@@zena-knittingbeans7973 find your local quilting guild; you’ll find lots of helpful advice and sometimes fellow quilters come with fabric to give away when they destash.

[@elainelear4982]

2.99 is excellent for fabric. Enjoy.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Elaine! ❤️ and right?!? I was so pleased. 😊

[@donnajohnson6566]

haha! Your Goodwill got its own "boutique" section. The good news is that they don't always know which shirts are the best.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Donna, you got that right!! 😘

[@btuller1772]

What's that in the linens. A boppy cover. Infant teacher in daycare. We can always use those 😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Lol! You can tell it’s been a long time since I’ve had a baby!!😂

[@juliejeavons6949]

That blue shirt with the special reverse side reminds me of the two tone suits the mods wore in the late 70s/early 80s. Does the reverse match your Kaffe fabrics? You could use it like one of his shot cottons. The problem I’ve hit lately is my daughter is home from Uni for summer so she’s claiming shirts which fit. I found a gorgeous yellow Mantaray shirt which is now headed for her wardrobe.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Julie, yes when I got that blue/purple shirt home it totally matched some of the other KF fabrics! Score!🤩 It’s a common thing for those secondary and uni students to claim shirts, I think! I know I did when I was that age!!❤

[@quil10it]

Thanks for sharing 😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks!

[@user-kh4jk8mn8l]

Hi-- This is Sheri. I have a thought about your beautiful ombre blue-green plaid shirt fabric. It is so lovely! Instead of searching for matching shades of green, etc, what about using it in a quilt with colors across from it in the color wheel (or beside it) or even white? It seems like doing one of those options, especially with solids or nearly solids, would really let the ombre fabric shine in all its loveliness instead it its possibly receding or not showing as well in a quilt with other greens and/or blues.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Sheri--this is a brilliant solution! THANK YOU for sharing---seriously, I had not even considered that and it is an excellent idea both from color theory and actual quilting experience. ❤️ Genius!! 🤓 Now to go re-work that whole Celestial Stripes quilt pattern (maybe)(lol) and see where it leads me! 🤩 Also, I want to do both, now. Like guitar channels that A-B guitar gear---maybe I'll A-B the different pairings (or like the eye doctor, "which one is better? 1 or 2? 1...or. 2....")😂

[@user-kh4jk8mn8l]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts Ha ha! Love the eye doctor analogy. Sounds neat! I look forward to seeing how the different options look.🙂

[@thecheshirecrafter4522]

Was I the only one who started in the store shouting "It's behind you'" just like pantomime at the shirts on the circular rack? There's often neon pink in Kaffee Fassett fabric, check that. And here in the UK, we envy your prices, but at 99 cents you knocked it out of the park.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Mag, I had not even considered that hot pink! will DEF check it out (and I have a hot pink linen shirt--like crazy hot pink--that might be just the ticket!) I know you do have fabric pricing envy in the UK, but that 99cents was crazy even for here in America!! 😳🤩🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@nicolebeauchamp7622]

Love you thrift store aka op shop videos 🇦🇺. Op shopping is my idea of a fun day out. You did very well for your money this trip. Can't wait to see what you make with you new fabric.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Nicole, me too!❤️ I could spend a whole day just exploring "op shops!!" Wish I could come hang out and shop with you all in Australia!

[@gailmeye4989]

As a safety note, you should keep your handbag over your shoulder. It is basically unattended in the cart as you are focusing on shopping and therefore vulnerable. I realize you are filming, but that habit usually carries over to grocery shopping . You can’t be too safe.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you for the concern and for the reminder, Gail! ❤️ You can tell I rarely (if ever!) carry a purse! I'm usually just a phone/keys/credit card in a pocket kind of gal! The good news is, had someone taken it, the only thing in that bag was fabric!! 😂 But I really do appreciate you looking out for me! 😘

[@erinburchard2131]

I NEED more catbird in my life! I am almost 64 and can only manage the parts of KZbin that I have been schooled on. I have NOT been schooled on patron, how do I get there?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Erin, go to the description of the video and just click the link! 👍🏻 (and thank you, that is so sweet!❤️

[@sgtpepper.6511]

👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻💕💕💕

[@AnitaSouthall]

Does your Kaffe prints come with a piece of selvedge with the colour dots on them? Those are the direct colours you want to match up with. Digital prints don't have the dots.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Anita, it does! 🤓👍🏻 Although I will say I'm finding that "matching" Kaffe is more of a negotiation than a science. 😉

[@pegpage8618]

❤❤❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

❤️back at you, Peg!❤️

[@cegli1966]

Hello from BC, Canada! I have just discovered your channel in the last 24 hours. I am watching you thrift store shopping because I am heading to one next to purchase some men’s shirts to follow along with your “making a Gingham Quilt Series.” I have been sewing for years, so I am very excited to follow you as I am not a quilter. I am sorry if you have answered this question in other comments, but why do you want 100% natural fibres (like cotton and linen)? I am assuming that 100% polyester will be too “slippery,” but what about 50% cotton and 50% polyester? Thank-you in advance if you answer me!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Hi Cyd! I'm so glad you found me, and I'm thrilled that you are excited to follow me! I have a whole video that answers all your questions and you can find it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o5OteaimaZaapLssi=JzQRrL45EHum8dgM Since I have so much to say (lol) it's probably easier for you to watch at your leisure than for me to sum all that up here! 😂 Thanks for watching and commenting, and I look forward to seeing your name in the comments! ❤️

[@jacquehunt4889]

So why linen?

[@DH-qz2so]

Linen is natural and breathable, just like cotton; Linen is made from flax...so a natural fibre as well as cotton is.

[@donnairby5430]

I’m new to this and was just wondering, why no Poly?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Donna, I get this question so often that I made a video on it! Click on “videos” and look for a bright blue thumbnail with the title “cotton poly”-it will give you all my thoughts on the subject (because it’s too much for a comment! 😘)

[@danyllmcintyre4376]

What do you do with the linen???

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I use it in quilts! ❤️🤩🤓

[@cherieweiss1020]

Do you prewash your new fabrics

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

No ma'am, I don't. So far no problems using them together with thrift store fabrics.

[@MarySmith-hv9fs]

Does anyone know how to buy quality quilting THREAD at a discount? I love your idea of thrifting for quilt fabric and I hope to try it soon. I am a new quilter and I was shocked to see the price of quality cotton quilt thread which it is recommended for quilt piecing. I either have to spend a lot of gas to drive to a quilt shop to buy thread or pay a lot of shipping if I buy quilt thread online. Maybe a recommendation where to buy in bulk to save money? Thanks in advance for any recommendation and thanks for your great videos!

[@jennjennedington279]

I use serger thread to piece. It can be less than 7.50 a cone and there are sales, too. You might look into that

[@jennjennedington279]

I know it’s not always all cotton at that price but I’m also not making heirlooms, I want my quilts to be used unto their death by the recipients. Not much in this life is forever, so enjoy the stuffing out of what you have and do.

[@MarySmith-hv9fs]

@@jennjennedington279 That's a great idea! I have 12 cones of Serger thread just sitting there, never been used. I also want quilt recipients to use my quilts until they fall apart - just like I used a quilt that I love which got me into quilting in the first place. Thanks for responding!

[@jennjennedington279]

@@MarySmith-hv9fs gosh you are welcome! Sewing with serger threads right this minute! How great that you already had it!!!

[@lindamasson3094]

Lurv your thrifting videos.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww thank you, Linda! ❤️

[@AvivaHadas]

At this point, do you only buy for a project? Or do you still buy because its there or because its a good deal?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Mostly I buy for a project, but I do still get shirts that I love that are super cheap or if the color/print is inspiring. I have a ton of shirts that need to be taken apart so I’m starting to feel that I need to get my shirts into usable fabric before I get too many more! 🤓👍🏻

[@AvivaHadas]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I question my own purchases. (But scrappy allows for more...)

[@mygrommi]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts “I have a ton of shirts that need to be taken apart . . . . “ You took the words right out of my mouth, Cathy! I re-arranged my sewing room recently and took all my fabric off the bolts to gain more storage space. I lost count of the number of empty cardboard bolts, but I know it was around 120 bolts. 😳 I’m trying to stay away from the thrift stores for awhile and it is hard. I have gathered all of my gingham shirts and fabric together and hope to soon start my gingham quilt you have inspired me to make. 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

it is unreal how fast it can get out from under you--and also when there is a real bargain in a fabric that I love, I can't just pass it up, now can I?!

[@lnldjimmieclouff1773]

When i Saw the video tittle first at all i thought you are looking for unicorns fabrics.....

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Lol!😂 well I guess that could be confusing!!

[@joanwillison9922]

Why are you saying no to poly? Pilling or just yuck?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh Joan, I have SO much to say about cotton-poly that I made a whole video on it! (typical. 😂) If you want the detailed answer, here it is: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o5OteaimaZaapLs Basically it is challenging to work with in so many ways and doesn't behave the way quilting cottons do. 😘

[@HeartWorX.Creations]

Poly needs to have a woven interfacing bound to it to have it “behave” better when using for quilting…..WHY BOTHER??!!……when there’s so many cottons to pick from, save time & frustration-don’t bother!!

[@DH-qz2so]

She also combines 100% quilting cottons with her thrift store shirts...and the quilt will have better outcomes, in all sorts of ways, if you use the same type of fabric, throughout the quilt...she wants to use up cotton scraps/stash, so Same with Same in this instance..

[@MsHighpeaks]

Why don’t you look at women’s shirts

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I do--but often they don't yield as much fabric due to darts, pleats and (sometimes) decorative seaming and pockets and such. Plus they are generally so much smaller. If I have a lot of time, I'll peruse the women's clothes, but I've found that skirts are a better bang for the buck if you can find the cotton ones!

[@FrancesAlford]

How MEAN can you be? Calling Kaffe's fabric garish??????