I didn't use any batting on the ragged quilt, in fact, I used a cotton fabric. It is really heavy so I didn't want any more weight. I don't see why you couldn't sew various shapes together. I used the pockets and various pieces in the center of the blocks so I could remember the kid that wore the jeans. I have pieces with stains and very worn pieces too. That quilt represents several foster kids, as well as our own two, who have with us.