Batting for the Honey Quilt

I started constructing the Honey Quilt back in October. A bit prematurely if I am being honest, as I was still wrapping up my dye season and had a few lingering creative obligations.

Then, in November when the quilt top was complete and I was ready to start constructing the quilt layers I hit a batting sourcing snag. The company that I order my natural wool batting from last year was completely sold out.

Next I attempted to purchase a queen size wool batting from a farm in Pennsylvania but unfortunately the order sat unfulfilled for a few weeks and I could not get ahold of the seller. So then, I made a THIRD attempt at purchasing from another seller and finally last week my natural wool batting arrived!

I have used a variety of natural batting materials in the last few years. Cotton batting is certainly easier from a care perspective but I am stuck on natural wool. The high loft creates such an amazing visual texture and you can not beat the coziness.

You can not machine wash, and certain not machine dry natural wool. There are “washable” wool options but in that case the wool has been treated with chemicals to inhibit felting.

Ultimately all quilts, and any fiber will last longer when washed minimally, by hand when possible, and line dried (in the shade).

The Honey Quilt layers laid out ready for safety pin basteing