How it is made
A quilted fabric is made of three layers. The top is a woven or knit polyester, the middle is a thin layer of fiber batting, and the bottom is a backing fabric. The layers are held together by lines of stitching in a pattern: squares, diamonds, channels, or wavy lines. The stitching holds the batting in place and gives the surface its texture.
Why the quilting pattern matters
Quilting keeps the fill from shifting and bunching, which is a common problem in thin pads. A tight pattern holds the fill more evenly but makes the fabric stiffer. A wide pattern is softer and puffier but lets the batting move. Choose the pattern for the use: crate pads often use a tight pattern, and blankets use a wider one.
The stitching also shows wear. Stitches that run through the top layer can break if the thread is thin. Ask for the thread type and stitch length, and check the stitching after a wash.
Specification fields
| Field | What to ask |
|---|---|
| Top fabric | Fiber, weave, and weight. Compare against other cover fabrics. |
| Batting weight | Weight in grams per square meter; it sets thickness and warmth. |
| Backing | Plain fabric or non-slip. A non-slip backing should be tested after washing. |
| Quilting pattern | Pattern and spacing in inches or centimeters. |
| Binding | How the edges are finished. Bound edges last longer than raw edges. |
| Care method | Machine washable or spot clean, and the drying method. |
Sample checks
Wash and dry a sample and check shrinkage, particularly puckering at the quilt lines. Look for batting that has migrated, which shows as thin areas. Check the edges for fraying and the corners for strength.
If the pad is meant for a crate, test it in the crate for fit and slip. A quilted pad that slides on a plastic floor needs a non-slip backing.
Related product line: Cat and dog beds. Quotes and specifications are confirmed in writing for each order.