I love batiks and have used them since the mid 70's when they were very different in looks. I'll have to post a picture of the vest I made from them back then when they were a whopping $4 a yard. Outrageous! I have hand appliqued with them and use them for bindings almost exclusively. I used size 8, 10, or 12 platinum needles the smaller and thinner the better they slide through the fabric. When taking stitches out it helps to soak in fabric softener to plump up the fibers then brush with a stiff brush to help close them. I wash finished quilts with color catchers and my long arm person has no trouble quilting through multiple layers of fused and satin stitched tops, thank goodness! I also mix them with hand painted fabrics when dictated by color needs or over-paint them when necessary to make them blend better. Too much fun ;c)