It is definitely a learning curve. When I first started quilting, I bought the cheap stuff at Walmart. They probably have better batting now. Back then it was this cheesy cotton batting with seeds particles and all. On top of that, I was hand quilting that quilt. 14 years later I finally finished it. I must say, cheap as that batting is, it is very warm. I do try different brands just to see how they drape when finished. Then I can't remember which I preferred when I need to buy more. Always a surprise when done.