Hi Kathy! I'm not sure that I'm able to really answer your questions but would like to share with you that I have been making what I call "comfort" quilts. They are the size of a throw (60 x 72). When I use fleece, I do not put in batting. The fleece is heavy on its own. I have quilted after adding the fleece. When using a fleece backing, you do not have to quilt close together. Sometimes I have had problems with the fleece pulling to the front. This is a problem. I suggest that you make a small sandwich (the same as your quilt) and then try different needles. I also use Shannon minky, which has worked better for me. I then bind my quilts. I have not birthed any of them but believe that you could do that, quilt the fleece and top down (to hold them together) and sew around the outside edge of the quilt at about 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch from the edge. Good luck with your project. I'm sure our members will be able to help you with your questions. Yolanda