Hoopsisters Designs Stiff?
 

I was wondering if those of you who've done the HoopSisters Designs have been happy with the feel of the finished quilt or is it really stiff with all that embroidery and battilizer they sell? Are they only for wallhangings or do they soften up eventually for use on a bed?

I did one of their designs. It seemed to be stiff but I only made it for a wall hanging and it hangs well. I think for a wall hanging it needs to be stiffer. Definitely not something that you could snuggle under. Just my opinion.

I have not personally made one, but I have seen several in progress at my favorite sewing machine store (they have a club). I think they are WAY over quilted. And VERY stiff. I held one finished square up to look at it and I could see light through it because of all the needle penetration from the quilting. Don't get me wrong, some of them are beautiful designs, but I am not impressed with the final "look". Almost like perforated cardboard.

I was wondering if using a different type of batting or thread would make it softer?

i have done one as a wall quilt and one as a candle mat. i have washed the candle mat and it is much softer. maybe the battilizer softens with washing. it is still not what i would make for a cuddly children's quilt but i would use it for a decorative over the couch throw after it has been washed.
i used 40 weight rayon thread and can't see needle holes on mine.

I have done both wall hangings and quilts, they are indeed stiff. They are so embroidery heavy, great winter quilt too heavy for summer.