Originally Posted by
Murphy1
When I first started fmq I practiced by making and quilting pot holders. That is a great use of scrappy batting pieces too.
... or how about placemats? or market bags? or ??
Turn your practice work into something practical and usable.
While it's nice to find other options to use, ... just as you found that overlaying with new cotton for a clean slate on top doesn't work, it's best to learn and practice by using similar the types of fabrics and battings you will be using for "real".