I stretch the top and bottom. They say not to do the batting. I have actually done one or two with no middle and backed it with polar fleece. It works well and makes a pretty warm blanket. And it washes well, at least the fleece I uses. My favorite is 10 oz alpine fleece. I get it from a wholesaler in Edmonton. It is a learning process. Luckily I learn fast. So far I think I have done 6 quilts on the table. I have to fix my poles as they keep loosening on me. I like the phaff machine though. It is fast. Needs a lot of oil though. It keeps sucking it up. Though with what I put it threw I guess it deserves it. I have more pictures to post when I find the camera. I think one of the kids had it in the house.

thanks much for the idea. i'll try the fleece.
Jeanne

Just don't put too much pressure on the fleece. Because the fleece has a bit of give. Snug, but not to tight.