I have been looking at the beautiful colors of batiks out there, but I have never used any in a quilt. I have heard that the dye in them will "run" when you wash it. I don't want to put a lot of work into a quilt and then worry about the dye bleeding. I was thinking about using some in a baby quilt, but I know that it will be washed a lot. I am torn between using some of that gorgeous fabric or playing it safe and using my other fabric. I know that you guys are the best ones to ask this question...What are your opinions about batiks? Please let me know because I am dying to use some of them!!

I love batiks, never had any problem with dye running.

A batik quilt that I made. Fabric NOT washed prior to quilting. Washed a dozen or so times after quilting. No running.

I have only had a red batik bleed. Not others. Batiks sew up so nicely too!

I adore batiks. 1/2 of my stash is batiks. However, I am a confirmed pre-washer of all fabrics for many reasons only one of which is bleeding.

So why not pre-wash if your afraid of bleeding?

I pre-wash reds and purples twice. With a dye catcher.

I doubt I would use batiks for a baby quilt without washing the fabrics first. Aside from the issue of bleeding, these are fabrics that are not "manufactured" in a traditional manner, and may still have a good deal of chemical residue . I have noticed on many occasion when I am steam pressing a noticable distictive odor in the fabric.
So best, if you a making a baby quilt, to play it safe on all issues and prewash the fabric.
Oh one more note... They do tend to fade quicker than most fabrics.

I use a lot of batiks, never had them run either. I don't think I'd use them for a baby quilt-they're stiffer than other quilting fabrics even after washing. Of course, this is just a VERY humble opinion--I'm sure they would make a beautiful baby quilt.
Just use a Color Catcher when you do wash it.

I've never had batiks run.

I would use batiks in a baby quilt, just makes sure and wash it with a color catcher. I always rinse baby quilts a couple of times to get any and all residues out of them :D:D:D

Oh my gosh, I absolutely LOVE your quilt!! Those are my colors!