I only use flannel and have found that white diaper flannel makes a great lining

I don't use batting, because I make denim quilts with flannel and backed with flannel.

I purchased a book last year to make some for family members...and as mentioned above....It said to cut the squares 4" and the batting 3"..that way it won't be into the fringed area for when your done. And it won't get caught up in the machine...hope that helps! Good luck...they are adorable when done...Also- you will want to take it to a washing machine place..those threads will screw up your washer..lol.

I recently finished my first rag quilt and did it the way you did, but i like the idea of three flannels with the 1/2" seam - showing all three colors. Will try that on my next one!

Carol in CT

I cut it just large enough to reach the seam, but not to extend into the seam allowance. One thing, when you quilt, make sure to catch all four of the corners on every block because the batting will bunch up if you don't. Ask me how I know.

I also cut the batting smaller than the squares and hold it in place with the X or whatever other design I choose to use. I do not have any problem with the batting shifting or bunching up.

I always make my batting 1" smaller than the square. I found that the fringe looks better if the batting is inside the seam. I would think it might depend on your preference. Just letting you know how I do them. I, too, have made many rag quilts and rag purses. Good Luck and do them however you prefer.

i tried the batting in the middle and it was amess to work with so now i just use a matching color flannel in the middle ( a thinner grade) and cut all three layers when doing the snipping , using the falnnel i dont have to make sure it is caught in the seam just right this way if i use a light weight flannel i can cut them all the same size and it is not extra bulk when snipping but is still a warm quilt

Haven't tried them yet.

I also cut my batting smaller than the block. The X takes care of keeping it in place and it doesn't make the seam bulky.

Me too.

I have made several but haven't used batting, making them more of a summer weight using the "x" in across the block and a 1/2" seam; sorry I'm not much help.

rachel, how big did you cut your squares to not use the "x"??

I use flannel in the middle but also cut the inside square 1 inch less than the square. For example square is 8 inches, inside square is 7.

Lots of different ideas on this one. I have never made a rag quilt, but am dying to try one. Thank you all for your ideas.

i have made two rag baby quilts. the first i used three layers of flannel the second one just two. i myself preferred the second one - less bulky and easier to work with.

Me too, have done around 30+ of these and you can do interesting things by using a different colour/s in the middle layer. Have started to use pink/s for girls, etc. Have also used up scraps by joining them (lapping with zig zag) so you can gets lots of colour combos in the 'shaggy' bits.Did do one with four layers for a 19 yo grandson mostly in plaids, was good but a bit tough snipping the seams. He says he loves it

dglvr, I love your puppy rag quilt! I have seen a turtle rag quilt, but not a puppy quilt. It is just so cute.

I generally use 100% cotton on each side with flannel in the middle and DEFINITELY go to the laundromat for the first wash & dry. Cheaper than getting a plumber out...

Cheers, K

I also use flannel but cut all the same size. Did not have to put the X in the middle.I like them without it and the flannel does give extra fringe which I really like.Here is one that I did for my GD. http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-34270-1.htm