Who doesn’t love scoring a bargain? The thrill of getting a deal on something can be downright addictive. My husband is the King of finding a bargain, but I don't get him involved when it comes to my sewing and quilting — because bargain-hunting might leave me shortchanged. Sure, we all have a budget for our sewing and quilting, and being smart with your money is to be admired. But there’s a difference between being thrifty and undercutting your passion. So, let’s talk about changing how we think about it.
It’s time to flip the script. Instead of focusing on how much your sewing hobby costs you, think about how much joy it brings you — it’s an investment in your happiness! This doesn’t mean splurging recklessly, but it does mean making thoughtful choices. Be savvy, but don’t be stingy. You’re not just spending money — you’re investing in your creativity, your mental health, and your craft. The key is to consider the value of what you’re putting in, not just the price tag attached to it.
Something I've taken to doing is selling or gifting items that I've replaced with more expensive tools and equipment. Schools, Aged Care Facilities and after-school programmes are just a few places where I've gifted items — and they are so grateful! I'm sure you know a new quilter or sewer who would appreciate some second-hand equipment that will help them get started and bring some joy to others.
The Unsung Hero of Quilting
Your time is, without a doubt, the most precious resource you have. It’s finite, but too often we treat it like it’s free. Ever driven across town to save a few cents on a grocery item? Or felt frustrated with yourself for “taking too long” to finish a sewing project? In both cases, you’re undervaluing your time.
Let's flip the script: when you make a charity quilt, is your time worth nothing? Of course not! You pour your heart, soul, and skills into that quilt. The finished product is worth far more than just the fabric you used. It’s a labour of love — so why rush it? Quit wasting time on things that don’t matter, and spend it on what lights you up. Your quilting deserves that kind of attention.
Value Over Price
A quilter’s relationship with money can get a little weird. We obsess over costs, but then fall for the temptation of a sale and can end up with a stash we’ll never use. We might buy cheap tools or fabric and then regret it when they don’t perform. Frugality is great, but sometimes spending a little extra on quality can make all the difference.
Think about how much smoother things go with a great pair of scissors, a sturdy cutting mat, or high-quality thread. These aren’t just purchases — they’re investments that save you time, boost your results, and make your sewing experience more enjoyable. Don't let the price tag scare you off. Consider the value it will add to your craft and how much frustration you’ll avoid by choosing wisely.
Your Most Important Asset
Above all, the most valuable resource in your quilting and sewing is you. Take care of yourself — just like you would any other tool in your studio. Pay attention to ergonomics, nourish your body, and make sure you’re sewing in a way that’s gentle on your body and your mind. There’s only one you, so keep yourself in good shape so you can keep creating for years to come.
Invest in Learning, Tools, and Yourself
I recently undertook the Quilt Pattern Writing Course by Elizabeth Chappell. It wasn’t cheap but wow, it was worth every cent! I wish I’d done it sooner. Although I have a few quilt patterns under my belt, I now use the skills I learned in that course to write Zipper Pouch patterns. It's also made me a much better pattern tester, which I still do from time to time. That investment will pay off for the rest of my entrepreneurial journey.
QUILT LONG AND PROSPER
Quilting and sewing isn’t just a hobby — it’s a lifelong investment. Treat your time like gold, spend your money wisely, and invest in yourself, so that you can keep doing what you love for years to come.
So, go ahead — make that investment in your quilting and sewing. It’s worth it!
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