Whether you call it batting, padding or wadding – it’s the essential middle layer that gives your quilt its cozy warmth.
Once you have completed your quilt top, removed the pins and ironed back all the seams, it’s time to choose the batting.
There is a variety of batting available, ranging from natural fibers like cotton and wool, to synthetics and man-made fabric.
Cotton – Cotton batting is idea for beginners and small projects. Cotton is natural and easy to work with, and you are often more able to achieve a more even look using it.
The most popular choice among serious quilters, cotton batting is soft, washable, and can accept very detailed quilting stitches. It is the batting of choice for quilts that will be entered in shows and competitions.
Polyester – Polyester batting is lightweight and inexpensive. It packs well, adds puffiness to your quilt, and doesn’t shrink. It also offers little needle resistance during hand quilting.
Wool – For comfort, wool battings can’t be beat. These are warm without being heavy. Yet, the completed quilts are light enough to use much of the year. However, some people are allergic to wool. The downside to wool is that it is a little more expensive than cotton or polyester. Wool batting is washable. This is available in both black and bleached,
