I use a t hin batting...can't remember all the names, but a 80/20 blend and of course, since my budget dictates what I buy, I wait for sales. But I have decided i like the thinner battings over the thicker ones. The thicker ones are puffy and all, but using a quilt made with one is kind of cumbersome and they quilt is not that "soft" and cuddly. And those I make for like them cuddley so I stick with that. Plus, I have used fleece for the back and NO batting and that turns out really soft and cuddly. I have used flannel for the batting and htat work for soft and cuddley too..however...flannel usually shrinks so I pre wash it 2-3 times...on wam and dry on warm so it shrinks most it can...so plan on buying twice what you need! That is what made me switch to the fleece for the back...thick enough to "hide" the seams thickness of the front and provide thickness, while being soft and cudley. ANd too...what is the quilt going to be used for? If used for more a blanket..make it thinner and softer. If used as a comforter or bed spread..make it thicker and a bit stiffer.