Another thing to remember, since you are new at quilting, don't mix your materials.Use all 100% cotton or blends. Don't try to mix all cotton with a fabric that is 65% cotton and 35% polyester. Cottons will shrink and the other won't.!00% cotton makes for a much softer quilt.Some fabric has a large amount of sizing in it. This doesn't help the fabric any. Just be sure to wash your fabric before cutting it.I've mixed some expensive material with some cheaper but the feel and qtality appeard the same.