i have used thin ribbon, and just spaced it to the batting's instructions. i've done sewing the length of the quilt, in parallel lines (i used a chubby needle that let me use longer stitches--it used a lot of ribbon!) and i've tied at intervals (used that same needle) on other ones. you have to be sure to use square knots, and do a final "knot" like you were tying a kid's tennis shoes. i did this mostly on "quillows", and when they went through the wash, they sometimes untied if i'd been careless or lazy on that final knot. it can work; it just takes care. it looks wonderful, so be fussy, and do the knotting. it's a nice touch. i didn't try it, but a single drop of fabric glue might help hold it secure--but i don't know how it would look after it dried. i'd try it out on a test swatch, first...