I am strickly a handquilter for my own use. Handquilting allows you to "adjust" the tension of each stitch if you so desire. I have worked with almost every kind of batting and still have no problem with using poly even though some people consider it inferior. A medium weight poly seems to give me the look I want. While cotton or wool give a special touch that are often a lot heavier. Since I sleep under a quilt everynight I appreciate the light yet warm poly batting. It also launders very well.