When I made one for my DGD when she was younger, I only used 2 layers of flannel, and it was still pretty heavy. At least in Georgia, didn't need that extra layer.

I just now let my 11 mo old snuggle with his rag quilt made from just 2 layers of flannel. It is heavy and snuggly and has become his favorite blankie! I wouldn't give it to him earlier b/c of the strings. Now that it has been washed several times, it doesn't string much. Oh.... I did not wash it at home until the 4th wash!

I would think that the lint would be an issue also. Even after being washed and dried several times, ragged quilts seems to shed more lint and small pieces of thread. These sweet babies could inhale some of this lint.

I'm just finishing up one that I used 2 layers of Moda Christmas flannel. It's plenty heavy, and I didn't use batting. Planning on ending it to a cousin in Florida.

For rag quilts, I use two layers of flannel - no batting. It is plenty warm yet not heavy. - Cynthia

i also have made a couple for babys but have washed them 3-4 times before giving. i also snip mine very close together and it doesn't seem to have many loose threads. the first one i made with three layers of flannel. second one with two. i prefer the two layers because it is not as heavy and bulky.

I prefer using all flannel. It rags up great, and you can gets some interesting shading in the rag part by using different colors for the "batting" piece

When joining rows together on a raggy quilt,do you sew the seams flat or press them open? Does one way affect the raggy look more than the other? Also, flannel makes A LOT of lint in the washer AND dryer. It has been suggested to me that raggy quilts should be taken to the laundramat instead. Anyone do this and how do the quilts turn out then?

I was wondering the same question...using 3 flannels together BUT not as rag quilt....just a regular quilt with some hand quilting here and there?

It is best to sew a row together and then clip the seams. Sew the rows together and then clip the seams. Sew the outside and clip the seams. Experience has taught me to sew each time with a straight stitch and then again with a small zig zag.
When sewing the blocks of the rows together there is no problem with the seams, but when sewing the rows together I believe it is a matter of personal preference whether sewing the seams flat or not.
YES to the laundromat! They have commercial, industrial machines and can withstand the heavy lint. It is far more economical to pay at the laundromat than have your own machine and dryer serviced.