Quilt Batting Calculator — Batting Size & Type

Batting should extend 8-10cm beyond the quilt top on all sides. This allows for shifting during quilting and gives your quilting frame something to grip. Trim the excess after quilting.

Cotton batting is best for machine quilting (low loft, good drape). Polyester is puffier and warmer. Bamboo blend is soft and breathable. Wool is warm with good loft. Consider the quilting distance specified on the packaging.

This is how far apart quilting lines can be before the batting shifts or bunches. Typical traditional cotton batting needs quilting every 5-10cm, and standard polyester up to 10-15cm apart — but ratings vary widely by product (some needlepunched cotton waddings allow 20-25cm). Always check the stitch-spacing rating printed on your specific batting packaging.

Generally no. Most modern batting is pre-shrunk. If you want zero shrinkage, soak in lukewarm water and lay flat to dry. Some quilters prefer the slight crinkle from unwashed batting shrinking after the first wash.