What's Inside a Quilt?

When most people think about quilts, they picture the outer fabric—the colors, the patterns, the stitching. But there’s a whole hidden layer that plays a big role in how cozy, warm, and long-lasting your quilt really is. So what’s actually inside a handmade quilt? And why does it matter?

Whether you’re buying a baby quilt, a bed-size heirloom, or something in between, understanding the materials inside helps you appreciate what you’re getting—and why not all quilts are created equal.

What’s the Middle Made Of? (Batting Basics)

At its core, a quilt is made up of three layers: the decorative top, the soft backing, and the all-important middle layer—called batting. It’s this layered construction, stitched together through quilting, that sets a quilt apart from a simple blanket or comforter.

Batting is what adds warmth, softness, and structure. It affects how a quilt feels in your hands, how it drapes across a bed or crib, and how it holds up to everyday use.

In the early days of SQ Squared Creations, I used Warm & Natural cotton batting from Joann’s. It was affordable, reliable, and easy to get my hands on. But as I refined my process and Joann’s stores began to close, I made the switch to Quilter’s Dream Natural Dream Cotton (Request Loft)—a low-loft batting that offers both softness and durability without adding bulk.

The quality difference has been noticeable, especially in my baby quilts. It’s still 100% natural cotton, but it holds its shape better, washes beautifully, and stays cozy without overheating. For me, it felt like a natural upgrade as I continue to improve both the comfort and craftsmanship of each piece I make.

Why Batting Choice Matters

Not all batting is created equal—and not all are free from chemicals or synthetic additives. That’s why I’ve been intentional about the materials I use inside every SQ Squared quilt.

Both of the battings I’ve used—first Warm & Natural and now Quilter’s Dream Natural Dream Cotton—are needle punched cotton, meaning they’re made without glue or resins to hold the fibers together. No hidden scrim (a synthetic mesh layer), no mystery fillers, and no coatings to “enhance” performance. Just breathable, natural cotton that gets softer with every wash.

I’ve personally worked with bamboo blends and am open to experimenting with wool in the future, but right now, cotton gives me the best balance of safety, softness, and reliability. I want you to feel confident wrapping yourself—or your child—in a quilt that’s as clean and comforting on the inside as it is on the outside.

Cotton’s natural breathability also means these quilts are comfortable year-round. Even in summer, I sleep with one—enjoying the gentle weight without overheating. That’s part of the beauty of cotton: instead of trapping heat like a comforter or duvet, a quilt helps regulate temperature.

Many people are surprised that something so thin can still be so warm—but it’s all in the layers. A quilt doesn’t rely on puffiness to insulate. Instead, the combination of tightly woven cotton fabrics and breathable batting holds warmth close to the body while still allowing airflow. The result is a cozy, balanced sleep—whether it’s chilly or warm outside.

Stitching It All Together

Once the quilt layers are basted, it’s time to bring them to life through quilting—the stitching that secures the top, batting, and backing into one unified piece. Quilting does more than add texture; it’s essential for durability. Without it, the batting would bunch or shift over time, making the quilt unusable.

At SQ Squared Creations, I use a free-hand stipple design—a flowing, meandering pattern that’s both traditional and efficient. I quilt every piece myself on a Bernina Aurora 440 QE, without computerized attachments or templates. Each quilt is stitched by me, start to finish, on my home machine—no mass production, no automated systems—just me, my machine, a mug of coffee, and whichever rhythm my hands settle into that day.

Because I quilt freehand without guides or automation, my stitches aren’t always perfectly uniform—some are a little larger, some a little smaller. But that’s part of what makes each quilt truly one of a kind. It’s not a flaw; it’s a feature of authentic, handmade craftsmanship. The slight variation doesn’t affect durability (cotton batting is quite forgiving!), but it does mean no two quilts will ever be exactly the same.

More Than the Sum of Its Parts

When you buy a quilt from SQ Squared Creations, you’re not just getting fabric, batting, and thread stitched together. You’re getting something crafted with care from start to finish—by one person, in one space, with purpose in every step.

From choosing breathable, chemical-free materials to stitching every curve by hand, I aim to create quilts that feel as good as they look. The result is a cozy, durable piece of comfort—meant to be snuggled under on quiet mornings, washed and loved through years of use, and eventually passed down as an heirloom.

Whether you're shopping for a baby quilt, a throw for the couch, or a bed-sized beauty, now you know: what’s inside a quilt matters just as much as what’s outside.