What contributes to bearding? Is it the quality of the batting or the fabric? Something to do with the needle? I've noticed it on some of the hand work I'm doing and I wonder what the cause is. Any ideas? Someone must know.

I notice it mostly with polyester batts, it looks like the thread grabs it and oulls it back out the hole!

I will be following this too as the quilt I made for our bed has a HUGE bearding problem! Everything bought from LQSs so I don't think it's the fabric.

ditto

bearding can be caused by a number of things- or a combination of a number of things-
fabric quality/thread count is first

a good new (sharp) needle instead of a used dull needle--and the size of the needle being used in comparison to the thread- fabric sandwich.

quality of batting being used

looser weave fabrics are more apt to beard- like flannels/home spuns

if the batting is one that needs close quilting- (every 2"-4") there is more chance of bearding- if the batt has a scrim (like warm & natural) less chance-
if the batting is one good for hand quilting- it can beard more-if the right needle/thread is not used
if the batt is made for machine quilting it may not beard as much= i've had alot more bearding from cotton batts than poly batts- when using poly batts i tend to use Dream Poly-or dream green and have never had any bearding from it

the thread can also play a part- depending on the weight/ply/and fiber content-
it is important to use the correct needle for the thread you are using- use a smooth thread (you can use 'sewers aid' on the thread to help if you determine it is the thread- or if hand stitching bees wax- do not use bees wax if using the thread in a machine.

most of the fabrics you buy at the lqs have about a 160 - 200 thread count- batiks are a tighter weave-
flannels can be 50-150
some of the lesser quality fabrics purchased at big box stores and other outlets will be in the 60-150 range too- those are more apt to beard- but it can be avoided with the right batting, thread, needle combination- they will however after a few washes start pilling like sweaters that are washed in a washer- the better quality fabrics will last through more washings- and poly blend fabrics seldom pill- they are a nice-tight weave- more durable fabric.

See? I knew someone would have all the info. Thank you ckcowl for that very thorough reply. I was doing embroidery through batting when I decided to post the question. The "sharp" needle caught my eye. My needle has to have taken about 2 million stitches by now, so I'll start there.

wonderful info !! I'll bookmark this one!