Originally Posted by Lori S

I look very closely at the actual weave. Some flannels are really not very loosley woven. Look closley at the weave are the weaving fibers close or is it the fuzzy "flannel" creating fill in between the weave. Close weaves are a sign of a higher quality flannel.
Take note of how think it feels in your hand , better flannels are noteably thicker ( partially because of a tighter weave).You can also hold it up to the light , a good flannel will have a minimal amount of light that passes through.

DO note that even some of the best manufactures will tell you that flannel shrinks , and shrinks much more than regular quilters cottons. One manufacture told be that 6 percent shrinkage is not unusual for flannel.