"Real" felt is wool fabric washed in very hot water to shrink it to its utmost. It will not fall apart. The stuff called felt for crafting is not real felt and more than likely can fall apart in the washer; actually, washing this stuff is not recommended. I think real felt would be too expensive and heavy to use as a batting. However, there is a wool batting for the quilt sandwich which is warm and light and can be a good choice.