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.