What is batting fabric?

Batting fabric is a layer of fibrous material that sits between the top and bottom layers of a quilt or other textile item. It provides warmth, structure and thickness to the item. Batting can be made from cotton, wool, silk, bamboo, polyester or a blend of these fibers. The loft or thickness of batting can vary from very thin to very thick, providing different degrees of warmth and comfort. The type of batting used depends on the quilt or project being made and the desired outcome. For example, thin batting may be used for a summer-weight quilt, while thick batting may be used for a winter-weight quilt. Batting can be purchased pre-cut or by the yard, and is available in a variety of sizes and styles to meet the needs of different quilters and textile artists.