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I'm finally making a quilt for ME thru my LQS Kansas Trouble Sweet Pea BOM. It's a square king sized and I'm trying to decide on batting. I'm still a beginner; this is the first time batting has ever really mattered to me, and it will probably be the 1st quilt I ever send off to be professionally quilted (will be used for my personal bedspread), since I have a domestic machine and my quilting skills thus far have been stitch-in-the-ditch, straight, diagonal lap quilts and baby quilts - nothing fancy.

THIS quilt is special - it's made by me, I love the fabric and design, and will be in our bedroom, used and on our bed. I want this quilt to look and feel nice! I'm even making matching drapes and balances.

We live in western Washington so it's cool year-round (doesn't ever really get to hot or too cold). But my husband and I are rather hot - if you know what I mean! I'm going through that season in life with night sweats; hubby prefers something light weight - he can't stand heavy blankets. So I'm looking at and comparing natural, breathable, light-weight batting.

But the more I research, the more confused I get. Should I go with 100% Cotton? Bamboo? Silk? Wool (which to me SOUNDS way too hot & heavy). Or a blend of some of these materials? Some of the silks and cottons I see contain 20% poly - should I stay clear of those (I assume the poly makes it less breathable and more lofty?).

I don't mind paying a little more than usual (I usually use 80/20 Hobbs or Warm & Natural and stock up on these when they go on sale or have a 50% coupon). But I looked at Quilters Dream Orient, for example (a blend of these materials) and was surprised at how MUCH more expensive it is (unless someone knows where to get it on sale?). Should I just expect to pay more for breathable batting?

I'd love the suggestions and recommendations of you seasoned quilters! What would you use for a special quilt, and where would you buy? Thanks in advance.