Patchwork
100% cotton prints and plains for quilting and patchwork projects.

Interfacing
Fusible and sew-in interfacing for adding shape and support to garments and bags.

Bag Making
Handles, fastenings and supplies for handmade bags and purses.

All wadding is covered by free UK delivery on orders over £30, with 48 hour tracked shipping as standard.

Wadding FAQs

What is the difference between wadding and batting?

Wadding and batting are the same thing. Wadding is the term most commonly used in the UK, while batting is more common in the US, and both describe the soft insulating layer placed between the top and backing of a quilt.

Wadding comes in natural fibres such as cotton and bamboo, synthetic fibres such as polyester, and blends of the two. Each type offers a different balance of warmth, weight, drape and care. Many quilt patterns, particularly those from American designers, refer to batting, so it helps to know the terms are interchangeable when following instructions. The Quilters’ Guild of the British Isles is a useful source of guidance on quilting materials and techniques.

Not sure which wadding to choose? Contact The Cheap Shop and our team will help you find the right option for your project.

Which wadding is best for quilts?

Cotton wadding is the traditional choice for quilts, offering a flat, breathable finish, while polyester wadding is lighter, loftier and easier to care for. Cotton and polyester blends combine the benefits of both.

Our Sew Simple 100% Cotton Wadding is made with long-staple cotton and suits heirloom quilts with a classic, slightly crinkled look after washing. Blends such as the Sew Easy 80-20 Cotton Blend Wadding add a little extra loft and softness. For a more sustainable option, the EcoBlend 70/30 Recycled Wadding is made from 100% recycled material, while the 50-50 Bamboo Cotton Blend Wadding is tested to the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 for harmful substances.

Planning your next quilt? Browse our quilting patterns and books for inspiration, and find everything else you need at The Cheap Shop.

What do 2oz, 4oz and 6oz mean for polyester wadding?

The ounce rating describes the weight and loft of polyester wadding. 2oz is thin and flat, 4oz is a versatile medium weight and 6oz is thick and puffy for extra warmth.

Lighter weights suit table runners, placemats and garments where you want minimal bulk, while 4oz is a popular all-rounder for quilts and cushions. Heavier 6oz wadding gives a plump, padded finish for throws, upholstery projects and cosy bed quilts. For baby items, we recommend using wadding no heavier than 4oz for safety reasons. Our polyester wadding by the metre is available in all three weights.

Polyester wadding is a budget friendly, quick-drying choice for easy-care makes. Order from The Cheap Shop with free UK delivery on orders over £30.

Should I pre-wash wadding before quilting?

Natural waddings such as cotton and bamboo can shrink slightly, so pre-washing is recommended if you want to avoid shrinkage. Polyester wadding does not shrink and does not need pre-washing.

Our cotton and cotton blend waddings typically shrink by less than 5%. If you choose to pre-wash, hand wash in cool water with a mild detergent, soak for around 15 minutes, roll in a towel to remove excess water and dry flat. Do not machine wash or tumble dry natural wadding before quilting. If you skip pre-washing, washing the finished quilt will create a softly crinkled, antique-style texture that many quilters love.

Check the care instructions on each product page for specific guidance, or ask The Cheap Shop team if you’re unsure which approach suits your quilt.

How far apart can I quilt my wadding?

The maximum quilting distance depends on the wadding. Many cotton and needle-punched waddings can be quilted up to 8 to 10 inches apart, while others need closer stitching to stop the fibres shifting over time.

Waddings with a scrim, a fine stabilising mesh bonded into the fibres, hold together well and allow wider spacing between quilting lines. Our Sew Simple 100% Cotton Wadding and Warm Company Soft & Bright Needle-Punched Polyester Wadding can both be quilted up to 10 inches apart, while the EcoBlend and bamboo cotton waddings can be quilted up to 8 inches apart.

Always check the recommended spacing on each product page before you start. For quilting threads and needles, visit our threads and pins and needles ranges at The Cheap Shop.

What wadding should I use for oven gloves and pot holders?

Use a heat-resistant wadding designed for kitchen projects, such as oven glove wadding or Insul-Bright, rather than standard quilt wadding, which does not provide enough protection from heat.

Insul-Bright combines a reflective metalised film with needle-punched hollow fibre polyester, which resists heat conduction and reflects hot or cold energy back to its source. It is widely used for oven gloves, pot holders, placemats, lunch bags and ironing board covers. Find out more from the manufacturer, The Warm Company. Our oven glove wadding is another practical option for heat-resistant makes.

Handmade oven gloves and pot holders make lovely practical gifts. Browse our Christmas fabrics for festive designs and order everything you need from The Cheap Shop.