Mixing fabrics
 

I don't usually mix a batik with other cottons in a quilt. Or a homespun with other cottons. Not sure why, exactly, just really haven't done it. What do you do? What are your preferences and why? Any reason for what you do or don't do?

I have mixed batiks with cottons in an Asian quilt with good results. I'm a pre-washer, though, I wouldn't attempt it otherwise because batiks are tightly woven and don't shrink as much.

I am working on one right now that has both regular cotton and batiks just to get the coloration that I want. I have read several posts on here indicating that it works, so I am giving it a try. It does handle differently as in a bit firmer weave. I have heard hand quilters say that it is also harder to quilt. Don't know if that helps you or not, but I wanted these colors and that's the only way I could achieve them.

I mix lots of fabrics all the time- batiks, hand dyes, home spun, flannel, calico, corduroy, denim, silk & wool might all be in one of my quilts- I use what works/fits in at the moment- that I like, that will create the *image* I am creating. I also use a variety of batts, (not different in the same quilt- but might use a different type/fiber content batt in 6 different quilts) I have never been one to limit myself because someone doesn't think it's *normal*
I started sewing way back in the mid 60's---in 4-H; made most of my own clothes and clothes for my siblings through out school- including winter coats- that contained a variety of fibers---wool, nylon, polyester, corduroy, fleece, flannel, my all time favorite was a pin whale corduroy outside- with a wool batting and a fabulously warm soft fleece lining- I've never had one fall apart, or turn out poorly due to a variety of fabrics.

I put it all together give it a good mix and see what comes out.

I'm so glad you said that ckcowl I do sometimes too and always have. Sometimes I feel the "quilt police" give the wrong ideas. Thanks.

Thanks so much for your posts. I know that batiks have a higher thread count which is why it's difficult to hand quilt. I'm impressed with your skills, ckcowl. Would love to see some of your projects.

Thanks!

Jane

I heard Bonnie Hunter speak last week at my LQS. She mixes all types of fabrics and her quilts are gorgeous!

I mix lots of kinds of fabric together. If I like them together, I will use them together...Go away quilt police!

I put fabrics I like together. One rag blanket I made had a poly cotton print, homespun and flannel I had intended to use all flannel, but couldn't find anything I liked to go with the two flannels I found.