Quilting is an art that has been cherished for centuries, allowing crafters to create beautiful and functional pieces. One of the key components in quilt-making is the batting, which provides warmth, thickness, and body to the quilt. Traditionally, materials like cotton or wool have been commonly used as quilt batting. However, in recent times, fleece has emerged as a potential alternative.
In this blog, we will explore the question: Can you use fleece for quilt batting?
What is Fleece?
Fleece is a synthetic fabric that is known for its softness and warmth. It is made from polyester fibers, which are processed to create a fabric with a fuzzy texture similar to that of wool.
Fleece is widely available in a variety of colors and thicknesses, making it a popular choice for clothing, blankets, and other textile projects. Its lightweight yet insulating properties have made it a favorite among consumers.
Advantages of Using Fleece as Quilt Batting
1. Softness and Comfort
Fleece is extremely soft to the touch, which can add an extra level of comfort to a quilt. When used as batting, it creates a plush and cozy feel, making the quilt ideal for snuggling up under on a cold night. The soft texture of fleece is gentle against the skin, making it suitable for quilts that will be used in close contact, such as baby quilts or throws for the living room.
2. Easy to Work With
Compared to some traditional batting materials, fleece is relatively easy to handle. It does not fray or unravel easily, which simplifies the quilting process. Crafters can cut it to the desired size and shape without much difficulty. Additionally, it is less likely to shift or bunch up during the quilting process, ensuring a more even finish.
3. Good Insulating Properties
Despite being lightweight, fleece offers decent insulation. It helps to trap heat effectively, keeping the user warm. This makes it a great option for quilts that are intended to provide warmth, such as winter bed quilts or quilts for outdoor use like picnics or camping.
Disadvantages of Using Fleece as Quilt Batting
Durability Concerns
Fleece may not be as durable as some of the traditional batting materials like cotton or wool. Over time, it may pill or lose its shape, especially with frequent use and washing. This could affect the overall appearance and functionality of the quilt. For quilts that are meant to be heirloom pieces or used for a long time, the durability issue might be a significant drawback.
Lack of Breathability
Unlike natural fibers such as cotton, fleece is not very breathable. It can trap moisture, which may make the quilt feel clammy or uncomfortable, especially in warmer climates or during extended use. This lack of breathability could also potentially lead to the growth of mold or mildew if the quilt is not properly cared for and stored.
Different Quilting Experience
Quilting with fleece as batting requires a different approach compared to traditional batting. The thickness and texture of fleece can affect the way the needle passes through the fabric layers. It may require a larger needle and adjustments to the sewing machine settings. Additionally, the finished quilt may have a different drape and feel compared to quilts made with other batting materials.
Can You Use Fleece for Quilt Batting?
Fleece as quilt batting is a topic of interest. It has unique features.
Prepare the Fleece
Before starting, ensure the fleece is clean. If it has been stored, give it a gentle wash and let it dry completely. Then, measure and cut the fleece to the appropriate size for your quilt project. It’s advisable to leave a small margin around the edges, approximately 1 – 2 inches, to account for any potential shrinkage or minor movement during the quilting process.
Layer the Quilt
Begin by laying the backing fabric flat on a clean, spacious surface with the right side facing down. Next, carefully place the cut fleece batting on top of the backing fabric. Smooth out the fleece gently to eliminate any wrinkles or folds. Finally, position the quilt top over the fleece batting, with the right side facing up. Make sure all three layers are precisely aligned at the edges and that there are no puckers or bulges in any of the layers.
Quilt the Layers
To hold the layers together, you can use quilting pins. Insert the pins at regular intervals, about 3 – 4 inches apart, throughout the quilt. Another option is to use basting spray, which helps adhere the layers temporarily.
When it comes to quilting, start with a simple stitch pattern like straight lines. Set your sewing machine to an appropriate stitch length, usually around 8 – 10 stitches per inch. If the fleece is thicker, you may need to use a larger needle, such as a size 90/14.
Begin quilting from the center of the quilt and work your way outwards. As you sew, pay attention to keeping the layers flat and the stitches even. You can also choose to quilt in a meandering or grid pattern, depending on your design preference.
How to Attach Batting to Fabric?
There are several effective ways to attach batting to fabric.
One common method is using basting spray. Spray a thin, even layer of the adhesive on the wrong side of the fabric and then carefully place the batting on top, smoothing it out to ensure it adheres well.
Another option is hand basting. Thread a needle with a long length of thread and make loose stitches through the fabric and batting at regular intervals to hold them together. Machine basting is also popular. Set the sewing machine to a long stitch length and sew along the edges or in a grid pattern to attach the batting. Pinning is a simple yet useful way too.
Insert quilting pins through the layers at close intervals to keep the batting in place until further quilting or sewing is done.
Conclusion
In summary, there are both advantages and disadvantages to using wool as a quilt filling. It is soft, easy to work with, and good at retaining heat, but it also has disadvantages in terms of durability, breathability, and a different quilting experience. Whether or not to use wool as a quilt filling depends on the specific needs and preferences of the quilt maker.
For a quick comfort project that does not require long-term durability, wool may be a good choice. However, for quilts that are intended to become lasting heirlooms or to be used in a variety of conditions, traditional filling materials may be more appropriate. Craftsmen should carefully weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision based on the intended use of the quilt and the desired results.
