what is batting made of
If you have ever wondered what is batting made of, the answer shapes how your finished quilt looks, feels and lasts. Batting is the soft middle layer sandwiched between a quilt top and backing, and it can be made from natural fibers, synthetic fibers or a blend of both. Each choice changes warmth, weight, drape and how easily you can quilt through it.
Common Quilt Batting Materials
Cotton Batting
Breathable and soft, cotton batting gives a flat, traditional look and softens with every wash. Expect some shrinkage, which many quilters love for that crinkly, vintage finish.
Polyester Batting
Lightweight and resilient, polyester batting holds its shape, resists mildew and offers higher loft for puffy comforters and tied quilts.
Cotton Poly Blend Batting
Blends combine the natural feel of cotton with the stability of polyester, making them an easy all-purpose pick for beginners.
Wool and Bamboo Batting
Wool batting is warm yet breathable with excellent crease recovery, while bamboo batting feels silky and drapes beautifully.
What to Look For
- Batting loft: low for a flat look, high for puffiness
- Quilting distance: how far apart stitches can be
- Care: shrinkage and washability
Ready to choose? Browse the batting options below to find the right fit for your next project.