only the cut edge of the minky is messy---once you stitch it- either in blocks or as a backing it is fine...i love minky for kids/baby quilts- it is so wonderfully soft & cuddly. i usually take it out of the package (bag or box it comes home in) and step outside to give it a good shake- then i take it in & use it...if i'm going to be cutting it (using it for blocks instead of a back) i keep a lint roller handy & just clean up as i go...not so bad.