There are some incredibly THIN battings out there. I would use one. Also at the fabric store you can buy that clear plastic sheeting that is 54" wide and simply put it over the top, you can see the quilt top but when your eating on it the cover will protect it. Wipes down easily too. I collect vintage tablecloths and when the kids were little I ALWAYS had a cover over it or I would have some wonderful ruined clothes.