Quilt Batting
You use batting in a variety of sewing projects, most often in quilt making. It works as a layer of insulation between fabrics either for extra padding or an additional layer of warmth. Quilt batting is also known as wadding. Batting is one of the most important quilting supplies needed when making your quilt. It’s provides the warmth to your blanket and helps hold together the two sides of your quilt. Batting comes select thickness depending upon how your want your quilt to be constructed. You can also find it either on a stand-up roll or folded up in bags. Whatever your choice, it is key to choose the right batting for your project.
Types of BattingThere are a few types of batting that are available including cotton batting which is 100 percent cotton, made of natural fibres and is usually 1/8 inches thick. Polyester batting comes in a variety of thicknesses from 3/8 inches to 1 inch thick and holds its shape and thickness better than other types of batting. It is lighter in weight, resists mold and mildew but isn’t as breathable as other natural batting. Wool batting is lightweight and very warm. It is usually 1/2 inches thick, holds its shape with folding and is relatively strong. Cotton polyester blended batting is usually 80 percent cotton and 20 percent polyester, which yields all the benefits of cotton but has more bounce to it. Bamboo batting is 50 percent bamboo and 50 percent organic cotton and is extremely breathable. This type of batting is great for machine quilting. Bonded batting has a light adhesive that adheres the fibres together which reduces shifting or bearding. Fusible batting has a fusible web contained within the batting so you can baste multiple layers together. Lastly, needle punch batting is mechanically fused together with several small needle punches within the fabric. As a result, this type of batting is much more firm and dense, so it is good for heavy duty quilts. Other craft quilting may require certain types of batting, however you need to decide the purpose of your intended quilt and project and how warm and durable you want your blanket to be.