One point about using the smallest needle, because of the tight weave, using a large needle will leave holes if you have to remove stitches. As recommended use the smallest /new/sharpest needle you can get your thread to work with. Do not use a ball point needle .

I've hand quilted a number of batik fabrics with no problem. Even with W&N batting. Even one where both the top and backing were batiks. A sharp needles does help. I'm also a pre-washer by nature so would recommend that as well.

I have a quilt I am quilting now with batiks and other together. I guess I do not really pay attention, because I am not noticing any difference. I do like a nice sharp needle, so that probably helps. I agree with accuracy in cutting. There isn't much (or any) give to these, but they are so VERY pretty, that to me it's worth it.

I'm another quilter who hand quilts batiks without any problem. You might want to do a test sandwich first, just in case.

Janet