I think what I am going to do in the new year is to do some "test" pieces ... quilt up the same fabric and quilting design except for the batting. Then wash and rewash and see what they are like!
The closest I'll ever get to really knowing what they are like in an apples-to-apples comparison, for feel, drape, shrinkage, etc.
Placemats would be the obvious ... though not being a placemat user or lover ... any suggestions as to what would be good for this test run? (and usable too)