I also wouldn't be offended if asked. I've never used wool so you could accept any and all of my quilts!

I have multiple allergies and know exactly what you are saying. Anyone who has ever suffered from severe allergies knows exactly what you are saying and those who haven't are so fortunate. That being said, it should not offend anyone when asked if it is stated that you have allergies up front. However, we humans are a fickle bunch and won't know for sure if you offended until you ask.

I would think it was nice that someone was taking an interest in what I made.

I think the one exception is what quiltingcandy referred to, if the person were asking so that they can look down on my answer ("Polyester? I would never use that.") But that's clearly not the case here. I always start out assuming the person has good intentions, and most people do, so I wouldn't be offended unless it was clear that the person was just trying to be mean.

I feel if someone needs to know, I will definitely tell them. Everything I use is cotton.

I too am allergic to wool. My sister does not allow her cats in the sewing room, just in case.

I would not be offended at all. When I gift a quilt, I always include a note telling the person how to wash the quilt and that it has been treated to prevent color runs.
Sue

I would just ask "does this contain wool? I am allergic to it."

When I started putting quilts together, the few that I did, I asked if anyone was allergic to anything. Turns out my son's girlfriend is allergic to wool and lanolin also. That answers that question. If anyone is offended, i'm sure there are many other things that offend them.

It is a pretty expensive batting. I've used it once in what I call heirloom quilts, wasn't impressed.
so it wouldn't be likely I'd put it in a gift quilt.

I think the best way to approach this is to announce your allergy first ("I'm terribly allergic to lanolin"), followed by your question ("so I'm afraid I have to ask if any wool was used in making this quilt").

I think if you make yourself vulnerable first, people are less likely to be offended than if you if you ask what the quilt is made of and then reject it because of your allergy.

Actually, every MSDS I've ever searched for I have found easily online and for free. Elmer's Glue and Best Press are the most recent. (Contrary to popular opinion, rumor, and misinformation, Elmer's glue is NOT starch, and Best Press IS starch. :thumbup:)