Quilter's Dream Batting: Mid Loft Cotton vs 80/20 Blend
By Mrs Quilty - Subscription box for quilters of all levels | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: Buying Guides
Compare Quilter's Dream mid loft cotton and 80/20 cotton-poly batting. Learn which suits your quilt for drape, warmth, and ease of quilting.
Quick Answer
Choose Quilter's Dream 100% cotton mid loft batting for a flat, traditional look with natural breathability, or the 80/20 cotton-poly blend for extra loft, resilience, and easier handling.
Why the Blend Matters
The main difference between these two Quilter's Dream battings is the fiber content. The 100% cotton option gives you that classic, soft drape and a more matte finish that many quilters love for heirloom pieces. The 80/20 blend adds polyester, which increases the loft and gives the quilt a slightly puffier, cozier feel.
Polyester also adds resilience. A cotton-poly blend batting tends to bounce back after washing and can be a bit more forgiving if you prefer a thicker, warmer quilt. Pure cotton, on the other hand, may shrink more and create a crinkled texture that many quilters intentionally seek after washing.
Drape and Quilting Ease
If you plan to do dense quilting or want a quilt that hangs smoothly, 100% cotton batting is often the better choice. It drapes well and is less likely to add bulk at the seams. The 80/20 blend, with its extra loft, can be slightly more challenging for very dense quilting but is still manageable for most home machines.
Both are mid loft, so they offer a balanced puff without being overly thick. If you are new to quilting, the 80/20 blend's added give can make it easier to maneuver the quilt sandwich through your machine.
Warmth and Use Case
Cotton is breathable and naturally regulates temperature, making it a great choice for quilts used in warmer climates or for those who sleep hot. The 80/20 blend traps more heat, so it's a better pick for winter quilts or for anyone who wants an extra-cozy feel.
Consider who will use the quilt. A baby quilt might benefit from the softness and breathability of cotton, while a throw for the couch could be more comfortable with the plushness of the blend.
Decision Rules: Cotton vs 80/20 Blend
- Choose 100% cotton if: You want a flat, traditional drape, breathable warmth, and a crinkled texture after washing. It's also great for dense quilting and heirloom projects. If you prefer a smooth, flat finish, cotton is your match.
- Choose 80/20 blend if: You want extra loft, a cozier feel, and a batting that's more resilient and easier to handle. It's a good all-purpose choice for beginners and for quilts that will get heavy use. If you want a puffier, more forgiving batting, the blend is the way to go.
- Consider the quilt's use: For a baby quilt or warm-weather quilt, 100% cotton's breathability is a plus. For a winter throw or a quilt meant for snuggling, the 80/20 blend adds warmth. Match the batting to the quilt's purpose, not just the pattern.
Product Facts
- Quilter's Dream Batting - 60x60 Mid-Loft, 80/20 Cotton Poly Blend: Quilter's Dream 80% Cotton and 20% Polyester Batting offers a combination of softness, durability, and loft. This mid-loft batting provides just the right amount of puff for a cozy feel and a smooth, professional finish. The polyester content gives you a resilient, puffier quilt that holds its shape well, ideal for everyday use and machine washing.
Quilter's Dream Batting - 60x60 Mid-Loft, 80/20 Cotton Poly Blend - 108” x 93” Mid Loft 100% Cotton Batting Quilter's Dream: Quilter's Dream 100% Pure Cotton Batting is known for superior softness, warmth, and ease of use. This mid-loft batting provides a perfect balance of loft and drape, ideal for quilts that are both beautiful and durable. The 100% cotton fibers create a flatter, more traditional drape and a breathable quilt that gets that sought-after crinkled texture after washing.
108” x 93” Mid Loft 100% Cotton Batting Quilter's Dream
Who Should Choose Which
Best for
- Quilters who want a traditional, flat finish with natural breathability
- Those making heirloom quilts or doing dense quilting
Not for
- Quilters who want maximum loft and a plush, cozy feel—consider the 80/20 blend instead
- Projects that require heavy insulation or extra warmth—opt for the blend or a higher-loft batting
