AprilM

I use Hobbs 80/20 Fusible. I usually have large enough leftover pieces squirreled away from what i have trimmed after finishing larger quilts. If you have never tried it, picking up a crib size package is more than enough for placemats, wallhangings, etc. That’s how i tried out the batting when it first came out (smaller, more controlled test = a lot less frustration!).

klswift

I almost always use flannel for placemats, centerpieces and table runners. Because I want something to 'pad' the seams but do not want any bulk. I think of it as a champagne glass test - nothing at all tippy. But, I always pre-wash all of it to handle any shrinking (and I'm not a pre-washer normally!).

Grammahunt

I used leftover batting and they did the shrink thing. Not nice looking. So I followed the advice to use flannel and have not looked back. It is flannel for my vote.

juliasb

I too use W&N batting in placemats and have not had any issues. I have some placemats that are close to 25 years old that still hold their shape after many washings. Of course they do not look brand new and are a bit faded but they have held up their shape against new ones I made last years for Christmas gifts.

southernmema

I use felt.

Still Sew N

I like the results when I use fusible fleece.

ctrysass2012

I have used W&N, fleece & fusible. For those that have used fusible, what do you use & do you fuse to the front or the back? I haven't always been happy with the fusible.

SueZQ from MN

Thanks to all of you for the additional information. I did buy some of the soft and stable, but it is almost too stiff for my tastes, an does get spendy. I have some beautiful lightweight polar fleece that I am going to try. It will serve 2 purposes--it will get rid of some of my stash, and I don't think that it will shrink. I might also try some of my flannel, but that still seems pretty thin. I will update when I have finished my trial testing. In the meantime, thanks again.

Beginner10

SueZQ...I will be watching this. I would like to see your trial test results and other people's opinions.

AprilM

If you are referring to the Hobbs 80/20 Fusible... gotta fuse both the front and back. For a placemat: make your “quilt sandwich”, then choose a side and fuse it. Flip over and fuse the remaining side. I think there may be some youtube videos showing the process.