Quilt Wadding Guide, How to Choose the Right Batting for Your Project
Choosing the right quilt wadding (also known as batting) is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when creating a quilt. It affects how your quilt feels, how it drapes, how warm it is, and even how it looks after washing.
With such a wide range of options available, it can feel confusing. This guide breaks it down simply, so you can choose with confidence for all your quilting projects and sewing projects.
What is quilt wadding?
Wadding is the middle layer of a quilt, sandwiched between your quilt top and backing fabric. It provides:
- Warmth
- Structure
- Softness and lof
The type you choose will directly impact your finished quilt, so selecting high quality wadding is key for the best results.
Hobbs Heirloom TWIN Premium 80/20 Cotton/Poly Wadding 72 x 90"
£23.95
Hobbs Heirloom batting is one of the best in the business.Its easy to hand or machine quilt with this lovely wadding up to four inches apart.Shrinks about 3-5% and can be pre-shrunk.Very clean cotton mixed with 20% polyester, lightly needle… read more
Table of Contents
- Quilt Wadding Guide, How to Choose the Right Batting for Your Project
- The most popular quilt battings (and how to choose)
- 1. Cotton Blend (80/20) – The Most Popular Choice
- 2. 100% Cotton – Traditional & Natural
- 3. Polyester – Lightweight & Practical
- 4. Bamboo Blend – Soft & Luxurious
- 5. Wool – Warm Yet Breathable
- 6. Specialist options – For Creative & Practical Projects
- Insul-Bright – Heat Resistant
- Key things to consider when choosing wadding
- Final thoughts
- Shop Now
- FAQs
The most popular quilt battings (and how to choose)
1. Cotton Blend (80/20) – The Most Popular Choice
If you’re unsure where to start, this is the safest option.
Our recommendation: Hobbs Heirloom 80/20 Cotton Blend
Why it’s so popular:
- Soft, natural feel with added strength from polyester
- Easy to quilt by hand or machine
- Minimal shrinkage compared to 100% cotton
- Suitable for almost all projects
Available options:
- By the metre (natural, bleached, fusible wadding)
- Pre-cut and packed sizes (baby, queen, king)
Best for: Everyday quilts, beginners, and reliable results
2. 100% Cotton – Traditional & Natural
Perfect if you love the classic quilt look and feel.
Our recommendation: Hobbs 100% Cotton Wadding
Why choose cotton
- Breathable and natural fibre
- Creates a slightly crinkled, vintage look after washing
- Lower loft for a flatter finish
Best for: Heritage quilts, traditional designs, experienced quilters
3. Polyester – Lightweight & Practical
A great choice for functional quilts and budget-conscious projects.
Our recommendation: Hobbs Polydown
Why choose polyester:
- Lightweight but can offer good loft
- Holds its shape well
- No shrinkage when washed
- Affordable
This type of polyester wadding is especially popular for everyday use and practical makes.
Best for: Utility quilts, quick makes, children’s quilts.
4. Bamboo Blend – Soft & Luxurious
A modern favourite that’s growing in popularity.
Our recommendation: Vlieseline Bamboo Mix
Why choose bamboo:
- Exceptionally soft with beautiful drape
- Breathable and temperature regulating
- Ideal for sensitive skin
Best for: Baby quilts, gifts, premium projects
5. Wool – Warm Yet Breathable
A premium option for comfort and performance.
Our recommendation: Hobbs Heirloom Washable Wool
Why choose wool:
- Naturally insulating but breathable
- Lightweight with a lovely loft
- Excellent drape
Best for: Bed quilts, cosy projects, colder climates
6. Specialist options – For Creative & Practical Projects
Not all battings are designed for traditional quilts, some are made for specific uses.
If you’re looking to try something different or add function to your projects, these are well worth exploring.
Insul-Bright – Heat Resistant
Insul-Bright is an insulated wadding that reflects heat back. Ideal for projects that need heat protection.
Why choose Insul-Bright:
- Heat-resistant layer helps protect surfaces and hands
- Adds structure as well as insulation
- Easy to sew into practical projects
What can I make with Insul-Bright?
- Oven gloves and gauntlets
- Pot holders and pan protectors
- Ironing board covers and ironing mats
- Lunch bags and bottle carriers
Perfect for practical, everyday makes, and great for gifts too.
Important:
Insul-Bright is heat resistant, not heatproof. Always use alongside other fabrics and test before use. Not suitable for use in a microwave.
Key things to consider when choosing wadding
Before you decide, think about:
How will the quilt be used?
- Bed quilt → comfort and breathability matter
- Wall hanging → low loft preferred
- Baby quilt → softness is key
Loft (thickness)
- Low loft → flatter, more traditional look
- High loft → puffier, more modern feel
Washability
- Will it be washed often?
- Some types shrink more than others
Ease of quilting
- Beginners often prefer stable blends (like 80/20)
- Some natural fibres can shift more during quilting
Common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing based on price alone
- Not considering shrinkage
- Using high loft when a flat finish is desired
- Picking the wrong batting for the quilt’s purpose
Quick guide: Which wadding should I choose?
- Not sure? → 80/20 cotton blend
- Traditional look? → 100% cotton
- Soft & luxurious? → bamboo
- Warm but lightweight? → wool
- Budget-friendly? → polyester
Final thoughts
The “best” wadding depends on your project, but for most quilters, you can’t go wrong with a good quality 80/20 blend.
If you’re still unsure, choose something versatile and reliable, you’ll enjoy the quilting process more, and the finished result will look better
If you’ve only ever used standard quilt batting, trying a specialist option like Insul-Bright or Thermore can really expand what you make.
Shop Now
FAQs
What is the best wadding for beginners?
An 80/20 cotton blend is the easiest to work with. Stable and forgiving, it delivers consistent results.
Does quilt wadding shrink after washing?
- Cotton waddings can shrink slightly (giving a crinkled look)
- Polyester does not shrink
- Blends shrink less than pure cotton
What wadding is best for baby quilts?
Bamboo wadding or soft cotton waddings are ideal due to their softness and breathability.
Which wadding is warmest?
Wool provides excellent warmth while still being breathable and lightweight.
Can I machine quilt all types of wadding?
Yes, but some are easier than others:
- Easiest: 80/20 blends and polyester
- Slightly trickier: 100% cotton and wool
What does “loft” mean?
Loft refers to the thickness of the wadding:
- Low loft = flat quilt
- High loft = puffier quilt
Do I need to pre-wash wadding?
Most modern waddings (including Hobbs ranges) are designed to be used without pre-washing, but always check the product details.
When should I choose a specialist wadding?
These aren’t direct substitutes for traditional quilt waddings, but they open up new creative possibilities. Choose them when:
- Your project needs a specific function (like heat resistance)
- You want a different finish or structure
- You’re making items beyond quilts (bags, clothing, home accessories)
