Being a geek and all *sheepish grin* I do a little sewing to make garb for my daughter and I for renaissance faires (yes, I'm THAT kind of geek) and one of the tricks I've picked up along the way is to first make a sample or test model out of cheap fabric. I figure with all the thread injector noobs floating around the forum it might not be a bad idea to bring up the idea.
I realize there's quite a bit difference between constructing a form fitting corset and say... a set of doors. However, when it comes to cutting the fabric and you've misjudged a length by 10 or more inches you may have just wasted several dollars ($5-$15/yrd) worth of fabric (ripstop) that could have been used for something else (stuff sack).
I keep a steady supply of muslin on hand because the cheap stuff can be picked up for $.99/yrd or less. Also, places like Hancock Fabrics and Hobby Lobby will have a remnant or clearance section where you can often find something suitable for a couple bucks. It may not have the same stretch or feel as silnylon or ripstop, but it's a cheap learning tool that can provide an accurate and flexible pattern for later projects.
Good luck and happy sewing, er... thread injecting!
EDIT: Also check Goodwill and Yard Sales. Both good suppliers of cheap sheets!
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