I always buy muslin at Joann's. Never had any trouble with it. It gets nice and soft after washing and is never more than $2 per yard. Hand or machine quilts very nicely.

I also was puzzled about which Muslin to buy. Since we live in a rural area and Wal-Mart is our only fabric outlet, I just bought the heaviest one last time I bought.
I use Muslin for foundation piecing, and sometimes in patterns. They have two grades and the more expensive is probably better. However, I just bought the cheapest one; $1.95.yd. The other is $2.00+ a yard.
I love to have it on hand, as it does make a good foundation.
Good luck!
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I understand all about the thread count. I still don't understand about the muslin. If for example, you're using muslin as a backing for a crazy quilt, what weight do you want? Should it be lighter since there will be a backing? Should it be heavier it's going to be the actual quilt backing? Or, should you just buy the best (Kona) no matter what?

If it were me Karen....I like the better muslin for everything..:)I just had no formula to how I found it:)LOL I think even in foundations, a good firm place to keep those pieces is a good thing:)Skeat

Gangles, I'm with you. I buy most of my fabric at Walmart. Since I just retired from the military, my budget is pretty limited, and I usually find what I need at Wally for a great price.

The Kona muslin is very nice! It's 200 thread count and feels very nice! Regular price is $3.99 at Joann's for 44" wide. With a coupon, you could get for around $2.00.

I would think so too.

I have purchased ecology cloth from Bellwether Dry Goods and have been thrilled with the quality. It is the perfect muslin if you want your quilt to have the "old feel" after quilting and washing.

I first purchased from them at a quilt show in the DC area, but have called them and ordered from them directly. They are wonderful people and their product and service is second to none.

http://www.bellwetherdrygoods.com/