When it comes to creating a quilt, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right batting. The batting you choose, not only affects the look of your quilt, but also its durability, feel, and how it behaves over time. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the different batting requirements/options and how to make the best choice for your quilt project.

Step 1: Understand the Function of Batting

Batting is the middle layer of a quilt and provides warmth, structure, and loft. It is typically made of cotton, wool, polyester, or a blend of these materials. The choice of batting will impact the overall appearance and feel of the finished quilt. Batting thickness can vary, and some types of batting are better suited for specific uses than others. For instance, quilts that will be washed frequently will benefit from a more durable batting material like cotton or wool. On the other hand, quilts meant to stay for display purposes may use different kinds of batting for visual effect.

Step 2: Batting Requirements Size

Your batting should be at least 4 to 6 inches larger than the top of your quilt. This additional size allows for any shifting or trimming that might occur during the quilting process. However, your batting should not be larger than your backing fabric, as this could cause excess fabric that may be difficult to manage.

Step 3: Consider the Type of Batting

Different types of batting have unique properties, and choosing the correct one depends on your quilt’s intended use and aesthetic.

• Cotton Batting: This is a popular option for most quilts, particularly for those that will be washed frequently. Cotton batting is durable, breathable, and soft, making it a great choice for bed quilts and heirloom projects. If you want your quilt to have an antique look, cotton batting is often the best choice. Keep in mind that cotton batting can shrink up to 8% after washing, which means you must factor in shrinkage when cutting your top fabric to avoid any unpleasant surprises later on.

• Wool Batting: Wool is another natural fiber that provides great loft and warmth without too much weight. Wool batting is also more durable and resistant to bearding (the little tufts of batting that can peek through the quilt’s fabric) compared to some other types of batting. If you want a quilt that will hold up well over time, wool is a good option. It’s also a great choice for quilts that will be used in colder climates because of its insulating properties.

• Polyester Batting: Polyester is a synthetic fiber that is lightweight, resilient, and affordable. While it doesn’t shrink like cotton, polyester can have issues with bearding, and it may not be as breathable as natural fibers. Polyester is not recommended for quilts that will be used for sleeping because it can melt when exposed to heat or flame, posing a potential safety risk.

• Blended Batting: Some manufacturers offer blended batting options that combine cotton and polyester or wool and polyester. These blends offer a balance between the benefits of natural fibers and the durability of synthetics. They can provide added warmth and reduce bearding, though they may not be as breathable as pure cotton or wool.

Step 4: Focus on Quality

It’s essential to select high-quality batting for your quilt. Poor-quality batting, such as products like Mountain Mist, may not hold up well during the quilting process. Low-quality batting can cause problems such as lumps, shifting, and unevenness in the quilt. It’s worth investing in a reputable brand of batting to ensure that your quilt will be both beautiful and long-lasting.

Step 5: Consider Shrinking

If you want to achieve a quilt with a vintage look, choose a cotton batting and avoid pre-shrinking it. However, keep in mind that cotton batting can shrink as much as 8% after washing, so it’s crucial to account for this shrinkage when planning the size of your quilt top. 

Step 6: Address Bearding

Bearding refers to the tiny fibers or tufts of batting that sometimes poke through the backing fabric, which can detract from the smooth finish of your project. To reduce bearding, consider using needle-punched batting or cotton batting with scrim, which helps to hold the fibers together. Additionally, using a backing fabric with a tighter weave will also help reduce bearding. Using a black batting with a dark backing can also reduce the visibility of any bearding that might occur.

Step 7: Consider the Purpose of the Quilt

The intended use of the quilt should be a primary consideration when choosing your batting. For quilts that will be used for sleeping, it’s recommended to use only natural fibers like cotton or wool for the batting. Synthetic materials, such as polyester, may not be breathable and could pose a safety risk if exposed to heat or flame.

If your quilt is primarily decorative, you can experiment with different types of batting to achieve the desired visual effect. Some batts, such as those with a high loft, will give your quilt a puffy, plush appearance, while others may result in a flatter, more structured look.

Step 8: Follow Manufacturer Instructions

When pre-shrinking your batting, it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully. If you decide to pre-shrink the batting, doing so improperly can cause it to lose its loft or become difficult to handle during the quilting process.

If you want your quilt to have that antique look use a cotton batting and do not preshrink your batting. Depending on the type of batting it can shrink as much as 8% after washing, so don’t forget to factor shrinkage into your top dimensions, or your quilt might not be large enough for its intended purpose.

Polyester melts when exposed to flame. For this reason, I do not recommend using polyester batting for any quilt that will be used for sleeping. For bed quilts, I recommend using only natural fibers.

If you decide to pre-shrink batting, follow the manufacturers directions on the packaging. I do not pre-shrink customer batting.

Please use a high quality batting. I do not except low quality batting like mountain mist, as it will not hold up to the quilting process.