Making a rag quilt
 

I want to make a rag quilt with 5 or 6 in finished size squares. Not sure of size yet. I will be using top layer flannel, 2nd layer flannel batting and 3rd layer 100 % cotton. Will this work without a X on each square, or because of the cotton back, will I need to quilt the X on each square?

I would x each square. I have not made a rag quilt without doing this.

I never X my squares. I cut all 3 layers the same size, so there is no need to sew an X on them. The 3 layers are held together by the stitches on all 4 sizes. The reason for the X is if you cut the middle layer smaller, so it is not held in place except by the X.

I agree with Dunster. The only exception would be if you were using a "regular" batting that required a maximum quilting distance that was smaller than the size of the squares you're making. But if you were using such a batting, it wouldn't be the same size as your top and bottom squares (because it wouldn't fray along with the other fabrics).

I apologize if I've only confused the issue. Just go with what Dunster wrote:o.

Note to rvsfan and dunster: You have solved a problem I've been pondering. I recently purchased some premium flannel (Maywood "Woolies") from my LQS for the top of a rag quilt I want to make for a DD. While the right sides are lovely, the wrong sides are all white - which could lead to rather boring frayed edges. I now know to use a flannel that has color on BOTH sides as the batting, cut the same size as the other fabrics, so it can contribute color to those edges. THANKS!

I would not X it unless you prefer that look. I have only done one rag quilt and all 3 layers were flannel. The largest squares were (I think) 9" cut, 8" finished, and I didn't sew and X and it's fine. Here's a link to my quilt to see what it looked like without the X. http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...t-t216760.html I will say that with 3 layers of flannel it is pretty heavy.

That's the first rag quilt I have seen that is not squares of the same size, and I love it, Leslie 333, thanks for sharing! Another quilt to add to my list...

Apologies if this is considered a thread hijack, but in response to sushi, I was surprised when the Moda flannel I ordered over the internet was coloured flannel one side, plain white the other too. Does anyone know if there some way to tell if the fabric is useable both sides in a fabric description?

It is just making sure that you batting doesn't shift. I would encourage you to sew the "X" thru each block. Someone on the board did a beautiful job using a decorative stitch. You do know that the cotton will not curl like the flannel does.

Without using batting, the "X" is optional...

I make these with just two layers of flannel sometimes. It's a lighter blanket which works great for our warm climate here in Mississippi.