i quilt according to the batting requirements so if a batting says it has to be quilted up to every 2" then i have no choice but to quilt quite heavily, but when i've used good quality batting even with close quilting when the quilt is washed and dried it fluffs up and is soft. and if you use wool batting it really fluffs! it all depends on the quilt and the batting for me, i've never had a stiff/hard ; cold quilt. mine are all soft, fluffy and warm.