In my opinion, (and you know what they say about opinions) with the way the economy is, I wouldn't think twice about using a blend. I don't make quilts for showing or judging. I make quilts to be used. I would much rather use a good quality blend than some of the "see through" crummy cottons out there. The price of quality cotton is getting ridiculous, just like gas and everything else. I, for one, have decided to seriously curtail my buying. I can't afford it, and I just don't like enabling greed. Yes, I know that the cotton harvests have been bad, but so is the job market. So, I will be "making do". Not just in my quilting but with everything else too. Use those nice shirts girl!!