My flannels just came in from Hancock, so I am ready to do my rag quilt. My questions...I watched 2 tutes about rag quilt, one from missouri star who first stitched an "X" across the blocks, the other did not due this, which is best? 2nd.. Neither person used batting, is this the norm?
Thank you!
David

I think it depends on the size of the squares you are using,I did mine 5 inch and did not sew the X if they are larger like 10" (some patterns I have seen) I would sew the X. I dont know if that is right or wrong but I did mine that way.

The X helps to stabilize the block, keeps the flannel from stretching (it is stretchier than quilting cotton)
You can do other designs in the middle too... circles, large stippling, etc.. :D:D:D

I sew the x on mine. I also use batting or cheap flannel in the middle, but many people do not.

Some add a third square of contrasting flannel as batting to add more 'fluff' to the fringe.. Gives it more 'Fringy-ness'

as for the X- it keeps the fabric in place wash after wash but it is a preference.. I have done both ways (up to 6in sq) and with-OUT the x is just as good as with the x for me..

I have made several flannel rag quilts and I always use Thermore as it is the lightest poly batting. I also either stitch an "X" across the middle using a "wave" stitch on my machine. I strongly believe in stitching each square to some degree and also using the light batting. Also, when I finally stitch the very outside edge of the entire quilt, I do two rows of stitching for durability. My granddaughter's 4 year old quilt has been washed every week for 3 years now (daycare & pre-school) and it is still in perfect condition. Only the best flannels - I do NOT recommend JoAnn flannels - very poor results when laundered. I made a quilt for another person who had already bought her flannel from JA and it was a disaster when washed.

Should have added.... I always cut the batting at least 1.5 inches smaller than the large flannel square so that it never shows in the 1 inch seam allowance. As far as the center stitching I only do it if the square is 5-6 inches or larger. I find with the good flannels of the top mfgs., the seam allowances, after clipping and washing, are nice and fluffy too and get better with each laundering.

I have made several my squares are 7 inches- the polyester batting is cut 6 inches- and I sew an X thru the squares - I have used Joanns flannel for all mine and they hold up well

Have fun :thumbup:

I just made a few rag quilts. All my squares were the same size (I used three layers of flannel), so I didn't have to X. I did, though, because I like the look!

I just finished 3 rag quilts. I put a very light polyester batting in the middle since it will be washed many, many times (they are all for children). I also sewed the X in the middle. Stablizes the flannel a bit. I did not wash my flannel first either and they turned out just beautiful!

Good luck