I used batiks two times and I think it is more difficult to hand quilt them compared to "regular" cotton fabrics. They are woven with a higher density (about 120 threads per inch or even more counted in one direction) and therefore it is not so easy to guide the needle through them. Most fabrics have a thread count of 60-70 counted in one direction per inch.
Just give it a try, Sharon. Hopefully your hands are strong enough that you don't even recognize a difference to other fabrics!