AlvaStitcher

In sorting through my quilting closet today I came across a bolt of white broadcloth that I had purchased many years ago when I was making porcelain dolls. Can this be used in quilting or will it be too heavy? Might it be another donation to the hospice thrift store? Opinions please. I also have a bolt of mint green cotton/polyester blend fabric. Do any of you use blends in your quilts? Pros/cons? Thanks.

ManiacQuilter2

I was always taught to use the highest quality of cotton fabric you could afford. I never used polyester batting or thread or fabric in a quilt. Polyester is stronger than cotton and there will be a war occurring in your quilt. Polyester will always win. For all those who love seeing the quilts on Antique Roadshow, there wasn't anything that I know of in those days made with Polyester. Just what I was taught.

PaperPrincess

For an 'heirloom' type quilt, no, I wouldn't use a blend. For a kid's drag around, sure. There are lots of folks on the board who use all kinds of fibers including poly. In the 70's quilts were made with double knit.
As far as donation quilts, check with the charity first. Some do have restrictions on fiber content, only new fabrics, etc.

ArlaJo

I have backed with broadcloth with no problem.

Jingle

The broadcloth will out last all cotton.

MaryStoaks

I've used it many times for binding. My mom always said the binding wares-out first so she used poly/cotton blends. I wouldn't use it for an heirloom quilt, but mine are just made to use.

Tartan

The general rule for me is to use the same fabric in my quilt top. If it is poly/cotton, than use other poly/cotton with it so it all wears and washes the same. I used it to do children's drag along quilts as it washes up well, doesn't wrinkle and keeps it colour well. I have used it for a quilt back on a cotton fabric top with no problems also.
There are a couple of things to remember when using poly/cotton...be careful with the iron (melt or shrinks) don't use it for needle turn appliqué as the edges resist folding under.

Lisa_wanna_b_quilter

It all boils down to use it if you like it.

GrannieAnnie

Most broadcloth I've seen isn't too heavy. I'll use a blend if it suits my purpose. I'm not making heirloom quilts.

GrannieAnnie

You didn't say? Is the broadcloth all cotton or a blend.