The 9 Best Cotton Batting For Quilts

Editor's Notes

September 16, 2020:

Anyone with even modest knowledge of quilting will know the name Warm & Natural — and won't be surprised to see that it still takes the top spot. It works equally well whether you're quilting by hand or machine, and it's made to high quality standards, for quilts that last over the long haul, even with heavy use. And unlike some, such as Pellon Wrap-N-Zap, the thickness is consistent, so there are no thin spots or bunching.

At this time, we've added Mountain Mist White Rose as a reliable choice, as well. It's especially handy if you're working with light, rather than dark, fabrics, which can't be said of all batting, including Hobbs Heirloom Fusible. But, in the defense of this Hobbs model, it is fusible, just as the name suggests, which can make the quilting process easier. Just remember that you should never use steam when you're ironing this batting and your fabric; choose a dry setting on your iron, and press, rather than glide, the iron over the pieces.

February 04, 2019:

Included options with and without scrim as 100% cotton is preferred by some, but a thin polyester scrim needled into the cotton makes batting easier to work with and stays in place better once the quilt is done. Warm & Natural was ranked highest for being well-needled, yet still breathable, and its popularity with experienced quilters.