Thrift Haul - On Location Shopping for Men's Dress Shirts for Quilting

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[@marybeth4002]

My favorite - going thrifting with you! Earlier this week I had a 'challenging' dentist appt - on my way home I purposely went to a thrift store to check out their men's shirts. Found some real beauties and I immediately felt better ❤ Funny how that happens 🥰

[@nicolebeauchamp7622]

Yes, my "reward" for going to the dentist is always a stop at the thrift store. As it happens there is a thrift store right opposite my dentist then another a little further down the street.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Mary Beth! ❤ I’m glad we had fun shopping together! 😉 It is funny how a good thrift store run can turn around a crappy day!

[@poodledoodlequilter6479]

I just thought of this, I had a friend that worked in a laundry, if customers didn't pick up their laundry in 30 days, the staff was giving the opportunity to buy the item for cost of cleaning, but twice a year they sold to the public, maybe that could be a source for you. I love watching you shop on location!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much! ❤ and yes, another viewer suggested I do just that-it’s a great suggestion!😊

[@QUILTINGCHAP]

What a great idea! Now I need to contact laundry places near me!

[@poodledoodlequilter6479]

@@QUILTINGCHAP I hope it helps! Take care, stay safe.

[@btuller1772]

I love Paul's editing and sound effects. When you itched your ear I was laugh out loud at the sound effect he used. Have a closet full of small gingham long sleeve shirts that since I don't have to wear long sleeve shirts to work anymore are now my quilting fabric. Love gingham. 🤫It's an addiction😂.

[@TheToneWork]

Thank you!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, B! He does make me much funnier!😂❤ And yes, my goodness you have to watch out because it can be addictive!!

[@socalgingerjohnson]

21:58 Paul gets ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! You really are the perfect pair for this 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@TheToneWork]

Thank you Ginger! Your name always makes me smile.

[@silver_csmith]

Thanks for taking us along with you! So fun! Love that your hubby is so supportive of you and willing to film you and encourage you to “just get it” 😉🥰👍🏻 You are a lucky lady!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Charity! ❤ and yes, I am lucky indeed! 🥰

[@jomcmahon8115]

Hi from Jo, a 69 year old Kiwi woman living in Queensland, Australia. I loooove your posts! You are such a delight. We are both "compulsive communicators" and the world needs more of us! I am not a quilter - yet! I love your hair style, it really suits you. Best wishes from summer in Queensland. Jo

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Jo! ❤️🥰

[@pegpage8618]

I don’t know why, but it’s so much fun to watch you thrift. 🤦‍♀️ thanks for another lovely video and thanks to your DH, Paul, for the great editing.

[@TheToneWork]

Thanks Peg! I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Peg! ❤️ I often say to Paul, "no one wants to watch me ___ (fill in the blank)" and inevitably if I take his advice and do whatever was in the blank on camera (tell a quilt story, share what's on my sewing table, go thrift shopping,) those are the videos that my viewers love! 🤷🏻‍♀️ Maybe one of these days he won't have to talk me into it! 😘

[@gwenj5419]

I don't know why, but the thrift hauls are one of my favorites of your videos. My Goodwill has 97 cents for the color of the week on Mondays. ❤❤

[@milliehubbard8423]

Cathy, I am a very new quilter who has just discovered your channel and I am obsessed!! I bought my first two shirts for deconstruction, and lo and behold, they each complement two previously purchased fat quarter bundles! I am hooked!! Although I have to say living in PA, I am envious of the shirts that I know are found in the south (I used to live in NC)! I too long to find the holy grail - a 4XLT, 100% cotton shirt in a bright, beautiful paisley!! I know they’re out there because I’ve seen them in the department stores!! Thank you for your wonderful videos and your kindness and encouragement.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Millie, welcome to my channel---I'm so glad you're here!! ❤️ It is so very easy to get addicted to buying shirts! The fabric is so great and the prices so reasonable---it's hard not to get them all!! 🤩

[@jennjennedington279]

That IS the Holy Grail!!

[@anneoconnorao]

Omg, I love your videos!! I played this on 2x speed and laughed and laughed! Thank you for the great shopping experience and the giggles!! My husband laughed too!!❤🫶

[@klbaustian]

You are so fun to watch shop! I always call polyester “Polly and Esther” just has stuck in my head that way. It truly is plastic! Thanks for sharing 😄

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, KB!❤

[@bethliebman8169]

I had so much fun tagging along with you! I'm impressed with how light, clean and organized this store is. You got some beautiful additions to your stash.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Beth! ❤️ And yes, it was remarkably clean and organized! And I did!! 🤩

[@stefflcus]

Okay, now that Ive made it through the rest of the video: I bet we all said "Bless you!" when you sneezed and a bet at least a few besides me are now thinking, "I like! Blue! SHIRTS-and-I-cannot-lie!" Can't wait to see the next graduation quilt take shape.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Steff, I bet you weren't the only "bless you"-er for sure! But you *might* be the only "blue shirts and I cannot lie" person I've got watching! 😂

[@jennjennedington279]

I sang it, too

[@joantomlin7281]

I'm a Massachusetts girl who married a Kentucky boy. I remember telling my mother-in-law we didn't have room for a "toboggan" in our apartment! The look on her face was priceless..

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

LOL, Joan! That is hilarious! 😂

[@debbietrapp7757]

I had such fun watching this video, you have this down to a science 🥰 I loved watching and learning your thought process on what you buy! Happy Quilting!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Debbie! ❤️

[@christinahall3318]

I loved this video!!! The linen shirt you found is so GORGEOUS! I went to our local thrift store yesterday - found a pair of men’s linen pants (size 30/30 dark tan) and YES I purchased them at only $2.50! O Yea!!! Be on the lookout for a surprise!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Woo-hoo! You know I love a surprise...and girl, I wish you could see that turquoise linen shirt in person---it is SO beautiful! And $2.50 for a pair of linen pants is SUPER! GO YOU! ❤️

[@eshannon922]

I pick up a lot of fabric at my favorite thrift store. Now I’ll be browsing men shirts 😊

[@amberjohannes9817]

Love mens dress shirts to sleep in too .❤but nothing beats the softness of quilts made with them..

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Me too! To both statements! (I sleep in a men’s linen shirt fairly regularly. It just breathes so well and is so soft-I don’t get hot and it feels like pajamas! ❤️

[@amberjohannes9817]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I realized how nice they are when we went to a wedding and my husband's shirt was all I could find ..I forgot my other suitcase..because we took his 72 Stingray Vette.. It turned out ok.. But either wear my dress to bed or his dress shirt lol..

[@ingridhunt7841]

You're still cracking me up! That prim and proper meets Missy Elliot made me chuckle out loud. Every video I just wait for the moment you do something like that. I'm inspired to start quilting with shirts now. I may just stop at the Goodwill on my way home today. I need some neutrals.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Ingrid, DO IT. And if you didn't today, go tomorrow! ❤️

[@tinakercher8768]

I never thought of other places in the country not having an abundance of gingham men's shirts. I live in the Atlanta area and they are literally everywhere! lol

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Literally EVERYWHERE! It’s like a requirement for Southern men. Lol!

[@LAUREL5784]

OH Thank you for taking me shopping with you!!! You're SOO funny (and Paul is such a good listener!!) On reading fabric content labels... One day in the near future, the label will say: 100% toxic gas-emitting plastic. lol ALSO: My tip for that pale pink shirt with the large flower drawings on it... If it's nice fabric, you could make it into table napkins: cut several large squares of the print and then add mitered border from a coordinating solid.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Laurel! (Paul IS a good listener!) And I lol'd about "100% toxic gas-emitting plastic"---funny because it's truuuue. That is a great idea (napkins!)---Lord knows I have other shirts that seemed like a great idea until I got them home! 🤣

[@teatime4910]

Oh my goodness, inspired by your video I went to the op shop & found a shirt made with Liberty fabric. Oh joy of joys. Liberty. In the men’s section. I have watched you from the very first video. I’ve made the gingham quilts & now on the Elena quilt. All men’s shirts. Thank you.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh that's a FIND! How wonderful!! ❤️🤩 Thank you for being a faithful supporter here at The Catbird Quilts!! And I'm so pleased that you've made the gingham quilt AND the Elena quilt---so very delightful! 🥰

[@monavance2125]

Your thrift store hauls are one of my favorite videos 🥰 and I talk to you through the screen, “Buy that shirt!!” Lol

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Mona! 🥰 And I laughed out loud imagining you talking to the screen! 😂😊

[@christineveale5800]

You are so refreshing to listen to. Love your videos and haven’t gotten into buying shirts for projects yet, but a glorious idea.

[@maureenhaggard6897]

I am glad I am not the only one that has a running commentary about each shirt while going through the thrift store. At least you had a camera pointed at you...I am usually on my own. Isn't it interesting how we can justify the shirts we really want....regardless of the price. Great finds!!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Maureen, you are definitely NOT alone! ❤ and yes, my goodness, if I really want it, I can come up with every “reason” why I should get it!! 😂

[@melilifabulosa5505]

You are so lovely, those prices are high, and your husband is very patient! My hubby calls it "Fabric-ing" and tries to wait in the car...

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much, yes they are, and yes he is, Melili! And "fabric-ing" is the perfect name for it!! 😂❤️

[@meredithzwiefelhofer9127]

I just found your channel and I am in love! You had me when you made the statement about liking to stay within boundries! I have been on the fence about making a thrift store quilt, I'm now committed! Keep it up, love it!

[@joannewiggins2152]

This was so much fun!! Thanks for letting me tag along!

[@diannenaworensky6698]

Hi Kathy two things, if the thrift store has a floor with squares you can use that for a measurement (12×12 squares) the other thing is that lots of times you can find skirts that will have your flower patterns. I just found your channel and I'm really enjoying the content. ✌🏻♥️ P.S. I subscribed

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Dianne-what a great suggestion to use floor tiles as a measuring guide! And yes, skirts!! Sometimes by the time I get done in the men’s’ shirt section, I don’t have the strength to face the women’s skirt section! 😂

[@diannenaworensky6698]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts : Hey I definitely know what you mean. I am really enjoying your thrift hauls as I am recuperating from several strokes. I have not been able to drive since 2021. I am hoping to be able to get back to my plants and my thrifting. My husband is ALSO my partner in crime. When it comes to plants (he knows my weaknesses) he always asks "do you have one" ?? If I say no then he says to get 2. I think that we BOTH are very lucky in husbands. ✌🏻♥️

[@stitchinginthebarn8307]

Thank you for another fun trip to the thrift store! If I didn't have one planned for the thrift outlet next week, I'd go today! Now I want to break out what I do have and get together a swatch pin. That looked exceedingly helpful! And I'm going to make a purple quilt. All the pretty purple shirts you showed, plus the ones I have, made me think I need this to happen too! Y'all have a great weekend! -Michelle

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Michelle, I highly encourage you to either make a purple quilt or use a heavy purple influence in a multi-color quilt! The one I made with the legendary purple shirt is one of my very favorite quilts, and I'm 100% positive it's because of the purple! 😍💜 Thank you for the weekend wishes and kind words--I hope your weekend is delightful and that your thrift outlet run next week is a great haul! 🤩

[@tammytatum7081]

I was passing up shirts labeled “no-iron” assuming they were not 100% cotton. Then I noticed a 100% cotton shirt that was labelled no-iron. I wondered how that could be, and looked it up. Originally no-iron shirts were made using a chemical process develop in the 1950s. They were soaked in formaldehyde-containing resins which made the shirts stiffer and resistant to wrinkling. But nowadays, the no-iron property doesn’t come from the fibers themselves, but from a special treating process which involves subjecting the finished shirt to high temperatures. So the shirts resist wrinkling, but are just as soft as non-treaded shirts. I was thinking "go back and get the textured white shirt” all during the video. I’ve been looking for those for background fabric.

[@jeanetterochnowskis142]

So fun Cathy. If you ever decide to buy Hawaiin shirts it could be The Beach Quilt. Lol. Still very funny. Tell Paul I love all the funny inserts. The squeeky noise when you scratched your ear cracked me up! 🤣🤣

[@TheToneWork]

Thank you Jeanette!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Nettie! 🥰 A Beach quilt would be fun and clever and funny! and yes, my goodness, Paul with those edits! Hilarious! 😂

[@jamieomahen2656]

Fun trip! Love your husbands editing!! At some point on time I suggest you get a P.O. Box and allow your viewers to send you men’s shirts. Your challenge would be to create a quilt from the donations and then donate to a charity!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Jamie, I DO have a mailbox (it's UPS, but yeah) and some of my viewer send me shirts--and shirt fabric! ❤️ And that would be a fun (or maybe awful) challenge quilt to make! What a great idea!

[@kessiareis7007]

The zipper pull is a great idea!

[@jeanettewithrow9641]

Thanks for taking us along on your shopping trip. I learned a lot

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Jeanette, for shopping with me!! ❤️

[@danajanis5750]

That was so much fun!!!! Thank you for taking us along I loved when you found the ocean blue shirt teehee I definitely know that feeling lol... I get when circling the Quilt stores ...your so darling and happiness just radiates from you glad I found your channel.....

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Dana! 🥰 I'm so glad you shopped with me! ❤️

[@lilybee_]

You are such a delight Cathy! We're leaving for the beach today and I woke up not feeling 💯. Shopping and a chat is just what I needed to get started on the right foot. I loved seeing you shop for shirts. I've been steadily collecting shirts but need to get a few more that coordinate with what I have. This helps! I LOVE the penguin shirt and was saying..get it, get it!! Lol I agree, $11.99 is high. ❤ Hope you have a blessed week.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Lilybee! ❤️🥰 Hope you have a wonderful trip to the beach!! ☀️🌊🏖️

[@redparrot9489]

Sooooo much fun going shopping with you! 💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕 22:00 effect made me laugh out loud. Love the running commentary and detailed decision making. That’s invaluable classroom learning. 💕💕💕💕. There are belt fobs you can get that attach to pants and then have a retractable cord at the other end. A possible eventual upgrade for you. And for what it’s worth, I called at the start you will need the cart … it made sorting out the shirts easy because your hands were free. Also … you bought seventeen sheets … that is “bury me” volume right there. So love watching 🇨🇦💕🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦💕🇨🇦💕🇨🇦💕🇨🇦💕🇨🇦💕🇨🇦

[@nitescudelia8777]

What a beautiful presentation. Just fine for me because now I know better how to choose and combine fabrics from shirts. I'd really like to be there with you. So much fun. 🤗XOXO for you and Paul 😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Delia! I wish you could shop with me too!😊

[@teddiegawley1552]

Of course we had fun!!!😁

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh yay! I'm so glad! 😊

[@janetdinatale9861]

You are me going thrift shopping up here in SC. Seriously, shopping twins and yes, I talk to myself too. 😂

[@HeikeWoolard]

Nice haul! 😊 I went to the thrift store yesterday, as Thursday is my day to go. I had to limit myself to 5 shirts because I just have so many of them, i could've taken at least a dozen. I ended up getting 5 for $2 each and 1 for $1 (pale blue gingham). All XXL and XL. Also got a thick round table cloth and a king-size fitted sheet, both for $2. I was very pleased.

[@QUILTINGCHAP]

Wow! Where do you find shirts for that low price?

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Heike, that is an AMAZING haul! Lucky duck! 🤩

[@jenniferrichardson2702]

I love thrift stores and I just started quilting. I can't wait to go tomorrow to see what shirts I can find. I've found sheets, charm squares and fat quarters at one of our thrift stores. You'd love to check out our thrift stores in Florida!

[@bgoshquilting6945]

These are my favorite videos! I LOVE what you find in your thrift stores!!! WI doesn’t offer as many fun finds. So…this video inspired me to buy a bundle on Poshmark of men’s shirts. Even with shipping it was a great deal and I FINALLY got some Denim and Flower!!! 💕

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Hooray!!! I love that you got a great deal on shirts AND got some Denim and Flower---you're gonna love that fabric! 😍🤩

[@bgoshquilting6945]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts I also got my first linen shirt in the mix. :-) Thank you so much for stopping by. I ADORE you..and I have a lot to say about that. :-)

[@dakin7612]

Why is it so much fun thrifting with you? It just is, Lol.😊

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you, Dakin!! ❤️

[@thecheshirecrafter4522]

Just look at those gorgeous blues! And you haven't even been to the thrift store yet, haha. Can't wait...

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Right? 😂And that one in the thumbnail is a Denim and Flower! 🤩😍🤓

[@Making-Beth-Gain]

Cathy, I love your thrift haul videos!!! I went thrifting this morning and found a very loud purple shirt but it was high % blended poly/cotton and I was so bummed! I’ve been trying to find a purple shirt to put in my stash and use in a project since you’ve inspired so many of us to trust the purple! Also, we got to hear Paul’s voice for a second as he gave opinion on color. Love it!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Beth!!❤️ I never in a million years thought I'd enjoy working with that purple shirt as much as I did! 🤩

[@apache-yaquibrown4060]

I am so shocked by the prices. My local thrift stores sell mens shirts for $1.99, $2.99, & $3.99. and have discount days for certain tag colors. I am in "affuent suburb of los angeles. Thanks for taking us along. I love that you button the shirt correctly.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Yes, Apache, the prices have gone WAY up here--ours used to be prices like your stores are now! Also, in my experience America’s Thrift Store’s prices are much higher than Goodwill or Salvation Army thrift stores! I did make up for it in the linens…they were super cheap!❤

[@lauralinash5341]

Some thrift stores near me have increased their prices. Some name brand shirts they've tagged $15.00, $16.00! I try to just pick out the color of the day at 50% off.

[@apache-yaquibrown4060]

@@lauralinash5341 This is so shocking to me. I am fortunate that hasn't hit here. For a $15 shirt, yardage seems mlre affordable. i order yardage from Fat Quarter Shop.

[@lauralinash5341]

I did find better prices at Amvets

[@lisascenic]

@Apache-Yaqui Brown that’s astonishing. The Goodwills in the San Francisco Bay Area sells men’s shirts for ten bucks. It’s crazy.

[@judithboggs4261]

Hit a thrift store last week and bought 4 beautiful XXL long sleeve shirts for 25 cents each! Score!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

What a bargain!! That is so awesome! 🤩❤️

[@nancys4874]

Yes. The magical thinking about carts is a real thing. If you get a cart, you won't find anything. Don't get a cart and your arms will be full. You will find something that you can't carry and will be worried that by the time you go to the front of the store to get a cart and return, someone else will have scooped up your treasure.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It IS real!! Thank you for validating that! 🥰😘❤️

[@lindaherrington6291]

I love to watch your shopping trips. You're lucky to have such a large amount of shirts to choose from!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Linda! ❤ and yes I am lucky to have so many choices!

[@cathybabnick7326]

I love going thrift shopping with you! I'm starting on my shirt journey. So far, I have three men's cotton shirt plus one one women's 2XL shirt. I've cut one up.and working on the second. Nothing coordinates, but ya gotta start.somewhere!

[@davidhatfield5714]

Yes don’t over look large women’s shirts!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Cathy! ❤️ It's true---at first there seems to be no rhyme or reason to any of the purchases, but it comes together! (and I supplement with fat quarters from my local quilt store, which then feels like a real treat/splurge but doesn't blow my budget!!)

[@careya]

I love these thrifting videos ❤

[@ms.yvonda8039]

You got me so stuck on “last all summer long” that I had to stop the video for 10 minutes until I pulled it back from the recesses of my memory banks. It’s Kid Rock “All Summer Long”. Whew! Would’ve driven me crazy until I recovered that one. Thanks for taking us along shopping😊.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It was killing me! Don't know where I pulled that random song quote from! Glad to have an answer! ❤️Thanks for going along with me! 🥰

[@monicapharo2330]

This was great, hope to see more of these videos ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Monica!❤ So glad you liked it!

[@brendafrye5875]

Loved going with you to the "Quilt Store". I was saying buy it, buy it to all of them but you did have a great haul. Can't wait to see what you do with them. I love love the Aqua linen shirt too. It's gorgeous.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Brenda, that linen is EVEN MORE GORGEOUS in person. It's so pretty it's ridiculous! I will have to think long and hard about what quilt I want to put THAT beauty in!! And YAY, I'm glad you loved going shopping with me! ❤️

[@michellestitches]

So much fun!!! Thank you! Your quick scan method of the medium shirts is my preferred shopping method as otherwise I would be literally pulling out every shirt! Great way the start the weekend!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Michelle! 🥰 And yes, if I spent as much time in the medium shirts as I do in the XXL I would literally be there ALL DAY.😱

[@evaleewinkler1707]

Maybe I'm weird, but I think that scrappy pocket piece is a cute fashion statement! Also is a silent ID to other quilters you may run into.

[@AnitaSouthall]

No way do I have access to such a huge thrift store. Ours are more Red Cross, Salvation Army, (Salvos) and St Vincent de Paul (Vinnies) shops. Often smaller places run by volunteers. Occasionally I'll go look for something in particular. Ties, belts, stuff for bag making. Zippers and buttons if they have them. I could spend a week in the big city just doing thrift stores but bever have the time. I love seeing what you inspect and reject 😂. Happy quilting 😊

[@diannplatt-roberts8692]

Thanks for taking us along.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks for coming along with me, DiAnn!

[@marygem]

I found a great darker purple on Wednesday to add onto the other 5 paler purples I've collected. I paid too much, but just couldn't leave it! 😄

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Been there, done that! Obviously! 😂

[@veronicaosborn3029]

Of course we had fun!! Thanks for sharing! ❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Veronica! 🥰

[@RobinHarris61]

Good thing you got a cart! 😁 You done good! I thought our little thrift store was expensive with their $5 shirts. Then I went to a city near by and the one thrift store had prices that were three times that! I loved watching you thrift shop for shirts. Fun! 😁❤

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you, Robin!! It turned out pretty good in the end! 🤩🤓 And yes, my goodness there is a WIDE range of prices out there and it just depends on where you go!! ❤️

[@kscheuerman5378]

Thanks for sharing your fun day at the thrift store!! God Bless

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, K!

[@AuntGrace]

Hawaiian shirts would make a pretty summer quilt for a picnic or light summer bedding in hot weather? They are expensive to get around here. You could do just the cool colors - boating, water etc.🌊

[@siren9965]

Recently discovered your channel! Loving it. I also enjoy hitting the thrift stores but for vintage linens, especially chenille. I found a beautiful white chenille twin blanket I plan on using as a backing on a quilt. I will have to check out the shirts next time.

[@annasalterations]

Had a great time shopping with you. 😮

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Anna! ❤️ I'm glad you came along with me! 😘

[@QUILTINGCHAP]

I don't know why your shopping videos are so enjoyable but they are! I think I am learning how to buy when I watch you shop. I have finished 1 dress shirt quilt using the gingham pattern, have another started, and a third I am big stitch hand quilting (my first time). You have converted me!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I don't know why they are either, but many of you faithful viewers seem to really enjoy them! 🤷🏻‍♀️🥰 I have SO MUCH JOY knowing that I have converted you! And even more excited that you have finished a dress shirt gingham quilt and 2 more in the works! ❤️ Yippeee!!

[@conniemurdoch8528]

That large plaid would be great in a kaleidoscope quilt!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

It would!!

[@reneecorbin8501]

Now this is up my alley!!!! Love, love, love shopping with you. Oh we need to go with you on every thrift haul,,And the patience that your husband has,,He is a Saint!!! Mine would never do this with me . Oh I enjoyed this sew much. You thrift sew well.Make sure you check the fabric sections, each thrift store has it in a different place,,I get most of my fabric at thrifts. SEW much fun, may your stitches always be straight and your bobbins Full !! From GA

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Renee!!😘❤️ And yes, Paul has the patience of Job when we video (but he doesn't go with me on my regular thrift hauls...I take too long!! 😂)

[@peggyfanning9258]

Okay you're going to think this is a commercial but it's not! I have started using the "Earth Breeze" laundry sheets for environmental reasons -- less plastic in the landfills -- anyway, I have found that they do a really good job at getting things clean. They have even removed "old" grease stains from some of my very old sweatshirts.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Peggy, it does sound like a commercial! LOL!😂 But I do love getting recommendations that work, so I'm here for it! ❤️

[@laurenebluder7037]

The "bowling shirt" reminded me of the type of shirts Charlie Sheen wore in the sitcom Two and a Half Men! Loved the calculations a Paul put all over the screen when you were doing some "quick math", also loved the ear scratching noise! Both were hilarious and made me LOL!!! Literally. 😂 Funny story. I saw a guy walking into a gas station.....from across a busy intersection.....he was wearing the PURPLE SHIRT!! I thought it was hilarious that I thought of you and this channel AND almost immediately thought....wouldn't it be funny if I stopped and gave him My cell number so he could call me when he was finished wearing it(not finished today, but finished for good). I obviously thought better of the idea but I had myself laughing. Thanks for all the great content and my new love for purple shirts. Lol I'm not sure I would have even noticed this man before I found you ❤️ side note....how lucky is that poor man??! Lol he didn't have a crazy lady asking to have his shirt at some point in the future. Lol 😂 another side note.....NEVER give your cell number to strangers. Lol....but really, just don't. 😉

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Laurene this whole comment made me LOL! 😂 and YES, please don’t give your cell phone number to strangers. (Although I understand the inclination!) I love that you thought of me and this channel when you saw the purple shirt-that is a great compliment!!❤

[@TheToneWork]

Thank you Laurene!

[@stefflcus]

After you said, "Last all summer long" (also, HA!, lastol), I said, "Oherrrrr, what's that FROM??" right before you did and had to pause the video and *I could actually sing the line* but I didn't know where it caaaaame froooommmm so I continued just singing that same line over and over like a dope for several minutes and (deep breath) anyway so I finally came up with "Heartache Tonight" by the Eagles, you're welcome. Love the shopalongs!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Glad you love the shopalongs! ❤️ And, ok I laughed at "lastol!" 😂 and YES THAT"S THE SONG and now I can die happy. So thank you. 🥰

[@stephaniegee3481]

Two different solutions for stubborn oil spots - 1) baby powder absorbs oil 2) spraying with shout and letting it dry before washing

[@henrietteguilliot4887]

I enjoy all of your videos! I am a thrifter. This is one of my favorite videos! Thank you

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Henriette! 🥰

[@sewhappysarahr8912]

Cathy, you made me laugh first thing in the morning! So glad you got a buggy but it did seem pretty busy on that aisle to have it! My sister and I tag team at the thrift stores, hang the "maybes" on the handle while we think about them, then get together and share our buggies. We do have the strength to put our rejects back. I think you made some great choices. I also look for large/xl women's skirts, so much fabric!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Sarah, if I have all the time in the world (ie rarely, these days) I also check the women's skirt fabrics for that same exact reason! Only downside with that is sometimes the pleats! 😱 I love that you tag team with your sister---and it sounds like a great system! ❤️

[@nicolebeauchamp7622]

The linen project is brewing. I can't wait to see what you make. I love coming along with you for you op shop adventures. I kept saying "buy it" but I get it, we don't need every shirt we pick up. Although I was thinking when you said you had a similar shirt at home and really loved it it might be worth purchasing a second because it you run short on that fabric for a project you can't just get more.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Nicole!!❤ do you know I thought of that too-too late of course-that having a second shirt might really be useful! 🤦🏻‍♀️

[@mygrommi]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts Cathy, I was thinking the same thing - that you should have bought the shirt that is similar to a shirt you already have in case you run short of fabric. 🧐

[@betsygoicuria2956]

I really enjoy watching your channel. I learn so much and I am always entertained.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh, thank you, Betsy! ❤️ Those are two of the BEST things!

[@tchr1106]

I did put you on fast forward! It was a fun shopping experience

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I would have put me on FF too...it was a Looooonnnng video! 😂❤️

[@susyk6839]

I am still working thru my dad's memory quilts with a variety of poly blends and poly/cotton that feels like linen. Cannot wait to be done. Then I can add 100% cotton of greens and oranges I crave you passed by :) ! Thank you for sharing. You are amazing. (P.s. I am in PA and i call it a buggy too!)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Susy, I know you will be glad to move on to 100% cotton! We lived in PA and I never heard anyone say buggy!! Are you sure you weren’t born in the South?😉😂❤️

[@sandyweirauch8310]

That was fun, thanks!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thanks, Sandy! ❤️

[@feleciachance8987]

You are a master at the best fabrics and patterns

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Felecia! 🥰🥰

[@angielovett4159]

Super fun! Thank you! I learn a lot listening to your thought process. I went to Goodwill this week, shopped only the 50% off (purple this week). I found 12 shirts! And most were 7.99 originally, so I paid 3.99! I ended up spending about 45.00. Most were 2 XL’s! I did get three flannel, multiple gingham and a couple great polka dots. I even found a Cactus Man shirt! That I had to buy ☺️. I also watched your videos about how to break down the shirts (about 3 times now 😬). I am enjoying it so much! I’m not bad at dismantling a shirt apparently. I find it very relaxing and satisfying. P.S. I’m in Vancouver, Washington and I was shocked I found tons of gingham! But also great bright plaids -that you call ‘vibrant’, I call ‘happy colors’!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Angie!❤ You had a great haul too!🤩 I’m so glad you had great shirt options where you are! Ps I find breaking down a shirt relaxing too! 😘

[@teresamaine3779]

I really enjoyed your shopping excursion. I’m sure that I’m not the only one that would like to be your sidekick on your next thrift haul. My next quilt for one of my grandsons is a quilt by Quilty Love called, Lucky Log Cabin using my stash of plaid shirts.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you, Teresa! 🥰 I would love to have you along as my sidekick! Oooh I'm gonna have to look that quilt pattern up---I love Quilty Love and her patterns are so good! ❤️

[@jenniferschildt6635]

Perfect timing for a thrift video. I was just on vacation and missed 2 $2 Tuesdays in a row. You got me through my withdrawals 😂

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Oh yay! Glad I could fill in the gap for you!❤

[@QUILTINGCHAP]

Where in the world has $2 Tuesdays????? Lucky you!!

[@yoshiew05]

You shop like I do. Mainly because I learned from you!!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww! 🥰

[@anneoconnorao]

So I've started collecting shirts! I purchased almost all of the cotton men's shirts from my local goodwill. I went and got a new machine in Colorado and went to a Goodwill there. So many more cotton shirts in beautiful colors but 7, 8, and 9 dollars per shirt.😳 I also found a couple large cotton womens shirts without a bunch of darts. I have found a few with purple and a great orange. I wonder if traveling to thrift would be a fun hobby?!

[@malgorzatawandycz7912]

Cathy what a great haul. Can't wait to see what you will make with the linen materials you are collecting. I have started too. Right after my dentist appointment later today I am going to the Salvation Army Family Store they have mens shirts for a dollar with the right color tag. Can't wait to see what I get. Also collecting Hawaiian shirts to do a Hawaiian Post Card Quilt difficult to get 100%cotton m9st are rayon. Looking forward to seeing all your projects. One day soon will be able to get myself more organized and actually sit down to get the ideas out of my head and make them a reality. However between being primary caregiver for mom , 91 years young, working full time and of course the usual chores

[@malgorzatawandycz7912]

Make little time for much else. It's called life gets in the way, so they say. While watching you st the thrift store I see myself doing the exact thing you do checking tags even though don't really want that particular shirt. By the feel it's cotton but then you look and what a surprise some kind of fabric you can't even pronounce. Some of the prints are fantastic or the solids are the perfect color your looking for and they are more polyester than cotton and you just die. This has gotten so long my apologies love your videos all of them and wait patiently fir the next one. Your husband is a gem and does a fabulous job as camera man etc. God Bless you and your family.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

@@malgorzatawandycz7912 no apologies needed!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Thank you so much! And yes, it is a shame that so many Hawaiian prints are rayon-I do hope you, too, got a great haul when you went shopping!❤

[@lorriescott8775]

Canada? Today’s thrift store search I found the cheapest shirts were $24. The pricey ones were $29.99.

[@sharongrieser3978]

That penguin shirt!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Right?! Equally awesome and funny!

[@caitlinmatthews1401]

EEEEKKKKKK! I love it. These are my favorite videos I think...it's like going shopping with you and Paul. We call bowling shirts "Charlie Harper" shirts...from the show Two and A Half Men. Ha ha ha

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww!! Thank you, Caitlin!❤️ One of these days we'll make it out to California and we'll go thrift shopping! But Paul will have to stay behind and talk woodworking to your husband because I take too long when I go (not on camera!) 🥰

[@caitlinmatthews1401]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts That would be AMAZING!! yes PLEASE. If you ever find yourself in Northern California it's a date!

[@mygrommi]

LOVE this shopping video, Cathy. 👏👏👏 An America’s Thrift Store recently opened in our town. I went there yesterday and the prices are MUCH higher than in our other local thrift stores. Had I had an unlimited budget, I would have bought some of the shirts you left behind 😎. However, you were shopping for shirts for a particular project - I just tend to buy what I love. I bought a white linen shirt and a micro gingham purple shirt yesterday for $1.99 each in one of our local thrift stores. I’m currently continuing to break down purple shirts while thinking of other complimentary colors to mix with purple in my upcoming quilt. Renea (pronounced Renee 😎)

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Aww, thank you, Renea!🥰❤️ I DO tend to avoid America's thrift stores because their prices are much higher for SURE. But sometimes it's fun to visit a new thrift store just for the heck of it! 😘

[@jennjennedington279]

The penguins! I found a penguin shirt recently, for me it was no second thought, right in the yes pile.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

I remember that now! If I didn't have so many shirts that still require breaking down, I might have gotten it!

[@pbar8439]

Love the sound effect when you were scratching your ear!!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

LOL! You have my husband to thank for that one! 🥰

[@cyndih4720]

I'd love to see you do a Hawaiian print themed quilt. I wanted to grab several of those you picked up that looked like they'd coordinate. Lol. Like a navy/muted blue/white Hawaiian print color scheme.

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

After I watched the edit, I thought, "well dang, if I had gotten all 3 of those cotton Hawaiian shirts, I'd have been halfway to a quilt!" Hive mind! 🐝

[@cyndih4720]

@@TheCatBirdQuilts Lol!!! I was thinking the same thing. They all appeared to coordinate. Ha, maybe they're still there....😉😉 I enjoy your fun videos. Thanks for taking us with you.

[@julieannestaub1502]

I loved this "shop with me" video! It is helpful to hear your thought process. I'm learning just because I find great shirts, they don't always need to come home with me. You are teaching us the value of being good stewards and smart fabric shoppers. I love seeing some of the grid through which you judge potential shirts/fabric - Do I need it? Do I love it like crazy? Will it work with a current or pending project? How much is it? What size/how much fabric will it yield? What is it made of (100% cotton, linen, or Heaven forbid, polyester). As a new quilter on a budget, I appreciated this video as much as all of the quilting tutorials and stories you share. Thank you!

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

Wow, Julie! Thank you! ❤️🥰 I'm so glad that you found this video helpful!! I realized from your comment that I don't even think about the decision matrix that I use to choose shirts, but you are EXACTLY right. Those ARE the questions that I'm asking myself with every shirt selection!!🤓 And so far, it has served me well! 😘

[@conniemurdoch8528]

OMG! Watching you every time you turn and ask a question of whoever you are talking to, I’m answering. And you proxy-shop like I do! Do you know how many times I wouldn’t leave the fabric store until I phoned everyone and found someone to come and get some bargain that I didn’t want but I didn’t want someone else to miss out. My one friend used to say “if you phone, I have my shoes on and my purse in hand before I pick up!” and I won’t leave the store until I see the rapture at the cutting table. But I haven’t been driving since COVID struck. Long story but I have a condition that was made worse by sitting around the house and not moving so I have to get back to the gym and get walking again.

[@nancymathisen9707]

I was about to spend over $100 on thread (cotton only) yesterday, then I looked at all the thread in my house.

[@lauriemarks6634]

Laurie needs that!🤣🥰

[@TheCatBirdQuilts]

🥰 Right? Called it. 😂😘

[@szelop]

We have a thrift store that sells everything for 50 cents on Wednesdays. Thursdays the prices go to $2, Friday $1.75, Saturday $1.50, Sunday $1.25, Monday $1 & Tuesday 75 cents! I would love to go shop for you!