Kinda off topic of the increase of batting, but everything made with cotton is going up. I went yesterday to find a package of womens cotton JMS underware and the price at WalMart had jumped by almost $4 at our store. I about popped the eyes out of my head. Five pair for $11+, same as I used to pay $7+ for.
I couldn't believe it. We're talking what my boys refer to as granny panties.
As for JoAnn's, I don't buy much fabric there anymore. At the local store (next town over) they have it seems reduced the amount of fabric sold for quilting purposes. It also seems like, frankly the quality isn't as good as it used to be. The feel of much of it used to be better now it isn't much better than WM and much more expensive. I still go to Hancocks when i'm in Salem at least the quality is better.