Make Your Own Bedding and Other Ways to Sleep on the Cheap -- Savings Experiment

Buying sheets can be tricky. There's thread count, material and weave to consider, on top of price and style. One option that's rarely considered -- but can save you money on bedding -- is making your own sheets.

Sewing Your Own

I was astounded to find that flannel and other sheet material sells for a few dollars a yard at Jo Ann's, a fabric store. Expect to pay about $2.99 per yard for flannel. And that's before coupons!

To make a queen-size flat sheet, fitted sheet and two pillow cases you'll need about 17 yards. That leaves ample room for shrinkage, borders and trim. Budget another $5 for needles, thread and 1/4-inch elastic if you don't already have them.