I agree with Qbee. It really depends on what the quilt will be used for. If you are entering it in a show to be judged, they seem to like more quilting, even if it makes it stiff. However, if it will be used as a comfy quilt on a bed or a lap quilt, etc., then less quilting is better, as it makes it soft and warm, but still hold the batt from shifting. I do agree with you that a LOT of close quilting makes the quilt stiff and I'm not a fan of that.