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Minky & Cuddle® Fabric

142 Results
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle Fat Quarter Bundle Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle Fat Quarter Bundle Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
10 Fat Quarters Included
$76.50
Qty
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5140-11QC Snow by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5140-11QC Snow by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5143-16QC Cranberry by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5143-16QC Cranberry by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5149-12QC Snow by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5149-12QC Snow by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5180-16QC Cranberry by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5180-16QC Cranberry by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5181-15QC Pine by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5181-15QC Pine by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5181-16QC Cranberry by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5181-16QC Cranberry by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5185-11QC Snow by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5185-11QC Snow by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5230-38QC Christmas by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5230-38QC Christmas by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
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Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5240-13QC Wintergreen by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5240-13QC Wintergreen by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
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Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5241-11QC Snow by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5241-11QC Snow by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5243-13QC Evergreen by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
Christmas Eve Quilting Cuddle 5243-13QC Evergreen by Lella Boutique for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9119MK-07 Snow by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9119MK-07 Snow by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$22.95
Yds
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9120MK-88 Red by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9120MK-88 Red by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$22.95
Yds
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9121MK-60 Snow by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9121MK-60 Snow by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$22.95
Yds
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9122MK-07 Snow by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9122MK-07 Snow by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$22.95
Yds
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9123MK-66 Forest by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9123MK-66 Forest by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$22.95
Yds
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9123MK-88 Red by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9123MK-88 Red by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$22.95
Yds
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9124PMK-86 Tree Skirt Panel by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Christmas at Pooh Corner Minky 9124PMK-86 Tree Skirt Panel by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$45.95
Qty
Classic Winnie Minky 8765MK-60 Lt. Green by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Classic Winnie Minky 8765MK-60 Lt. Green by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$22.95
Yds
Classic Winnie Minky 8766MK-44 Yellow by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Classic Winnie Minky 8766MK-44 Yellow by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$22.95
Yds
Classic Winnie Minky 8767MK-60 Lt. Green by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Classic Winnie Minky 8767MK-60 Lt. Green by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$22.95
Yds
Classic Winnie Minky 8768MK-50 Lt. Purple by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Classic Winnie Minky 8768MK-50 Lt. Purple by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$22.95
Yds
Classic Winnie Minky 8769MK-34 Taupe by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Classic Winnie Minky 8769MK-34 Taupe by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$22.95
Yds
Classic Winnie Minky 8770MK-11 Blue by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Classic Winnie Minky 8770MK-11 Blue by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$22.95
Yds
Classic Winnie Minky 8771MK-47 Multi by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Classic Winnie Minky 8771MK-47 Multi by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$22.95
Yds
Classic Winnie Minky 8772PMK-66 Panel by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
Classic Winnie Minky 8772PMK-66 Panel by W.A. Dodge for Studio E Fabrics
$34.95
Qty
Cuddle Crew Quilting Cuddle 21010-11QC ABC Panel Multi by Stacy Iest Hsu for Moda Fabrics
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Cuddle Crew Quilting Cuddle 21010-11QC ABC Panel Multi by Stacy Iest Hsu for Moda Fabrics
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Cuddle Crew Quilting Cuddle 21011-11QC Patchwork Multi by Stacy Iest Hsu for Moda Fabrics
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Cuddle Crew Quilting Cuddle 21011-11QC Patchwork Multi by Stacy Iest Hsu for Moda Fabrics
Notify me when this item becomes available!
Cuddle Crew Quilting Cuddle 21012-11QC Baby Bunny Panel Multi by Stacy Iest Hsu for Moda Fabrics
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Cuddle Crew Quilting Cuddle 21012-11QC Baby Bunny Panel Multi by Stacy Iest Hsu for Moda Fabrics
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Cuddle Crew Quilting Cuddle 21013-11QC Monkey and Lion Panel Multi by Stacy Iest Hsu for Moda Fabrics
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Cuddle Crew Quilting Cuddle 21013-11QC Monkey and Lion Panel Multi by Stacy Iest Hsu for Moda Fabrics
Notify me when this item becomes available!
Double Lush Velvet LV17361 Winnie The Pooh by Echo Park Paper Co. for Riley Blake Designs
Double Lush Velvet LV17361 Winnie The Pooh by Echo Park Paper Co. for Riley Blake Designs
$29.98
Yds
Double Lush Velvet LV18116 Christmas Greetings by Sandy Gervais for Riley Blake Designs
Double Lush Velvet LV18116 Christmas Greetings by Sandy Gervais for Riley Blake Designs
$29.98
Yds
Double Lush Velvet LV18955 Winnie-The-Pooh Baby by Echo Park Paper Co. for Riley Blake Designs
  • coming soon
Double Lush Velvet LV18955 Winnie-The-Pooh Baby by Echo Park Paper Co. for Riley Blake Designs
Notify me when this item becomes available!
Double Lush Velvet LV18956 Winnie-The-Pooh Baby by Echo Park Paper Co. for Riley Blake Designs
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Double Lush Velvet LV18956 Winnie-The-Pooh Baby by Echo Park Paper Co. for Riley Blake Designs
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Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle Fat Quarter Bundle + Panel Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle Fat Quarter Bundle + Panel Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
9 Fat Quarters + Panel Included
$74.50
Qty
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56010-11QC Cloud Panel by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56010-11QC Cloud Panel by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Qty
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56011-11QC Cloud by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56011-11QC Cloud by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56011-14QC Mint by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56011-14QC Mint by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56014-11QC Cloud by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56014-11QC Cloud by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56014-15QC Mint by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56014-15QC Mint by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56015-11QC Cloud by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56015-11QC Cloud by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56016-11QC Cloud by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56016-11QC Cloud by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56108-11QC Cloud by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56108-11QC Cloud by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56108-14QC Sky by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
Effies Woods Quilting Cuddle 56108-14QC Sky by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Fable & Fern Quilting Cuddle Yardage by Watercolour Heart for Moda Fabrics
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Fable & Fern Quilting Cuddle Yardage by Watercolour Heart for Moda Fabrics
Notify me when this item becomes available!
Fable & Fern Quilting Cuddle 40060-11QC Eggshell Woodland Tales by Watercolour Heart for Moda Fabrics
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Fable & Fern Quilting Cuddle 40060-11QC Eggshell Woodland Tales by Watercolour Heart for Moda Fabrics
Notify me when this item becomes available!
Fable & Fern Quilting Cuddle 40061-11QC Eggshell Woodland Floor by Watercolour Heart for Moda Fabrics
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Fable & Fern Quilting Cuddle 40061-11QC Eggshell Woodland Floor by Watercolour Heart for Moda Fabrics
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Fable & Fern Quilting Cuddle 40066-14QC Stone Cabin Gingham by Watercolour Heart for Moda Fabrics
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Fable & Fern Quilting Cuddle 40066-14QC Stone Cabin Gingham by Watercolour Heart for Moda Fabrics
Notify me when this item becomes available!
Fable & Fern Quilting Cuddle 40068-11QC Cloud Panel by Watercolour Heart for Moda Fabrics
  • coming soon
Fable & Fern Quilting Cuddle 40068-11QC Cloud Panel by Watercolour Heart for Moda Fabrics
Notify me when this item becomes available!
Ghost Town MK28942-10 Halloween Minky Stuffies Panel by Deborah Edwards and Emily Wenk for Northcott Fabrics
  • clearance
Ghost Town MK28942-10 Halloween Minky Stuffies Panel by Deborah Edwards and Emily Wenk for Northcott Fabrics
$20.98 $17.83
Qty
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31772-11QC Quilt Blocks Panel by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
  • new
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31772-11QC Quilt Blocks Panel by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Qty
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31790-11QC Porcelain Vintage Blooms by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
  • new
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31790-11QC Porcelain Vintage Blooms by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
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Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31790-22QC Sky Vintage Blooms by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
  • new
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31790-22QC Sky Vintage Blooms by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31792-19QC Pear Doily by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
  • new
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31792-19QC Pear Doily by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31793-11QC Porcelain Bows & Daisies by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
  • new
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31793-11QC Porcelain Bows & Daisies by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31794-11QC Porcelain Posies by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
  • new
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31794-11QC Porcelain Posies by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31794-15QC Blush Posies by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
  • new
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31794-15QC Blush Posies by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31797-17QC Peach Checks by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
  • new
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31797-17QC Peach Checks by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31797-19QC Pear Checks by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
  • new
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31797-19QC Pear Checks by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31797-23QC Powder Blue Checks by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
  • new
Handmade Sweetness Quilting Cuddle 31797-23QC Powder Blue Checks by Heather Briggs for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Jungle Romp - Minky 2243MK-49 Multi by Betsey Cavallo for Henry Glass Fabrics
  • clearance
Jungle Romp - Minky 2243MK-49 Multi by Betsey Cavallo for Henry Glass Fabrics
$23.98 $19.18
Yds
Jungle Romp - Minky 2244MK-49 Black/Tan by Betsey Cavallo for Henry Glass Fabrics
  • clearance
Jungle Romp - Minky 2244MK-49 Black/Tan by Betsey Cavallo for Henry Glass Fabrics
$23.98 $19.18
Yds
Jungle Romp - Minky 2245MK-33 Cream by Betsey Cavallo for Henry Glass Fabrics
  • clearance
Jungle Romp - Minky 2245MK-33 Cream by Betsey Cavallo for Henry Glass Fabrics
$23.98 $19.18
Yds
Jungle Romp - Minky 2246MK-49 Multi by Betsey Cavallo for Henry Glass Fabrics
  • clearance
Jungle Romp - Minky 2246MK-49 Multi by Betsey Cavallo for Henry Glass Fabrics
$23.98 $19.18
Yds
Jungle Romp - Minky 2247MKP-49 Multi by Betsey Cavallo for Henry Glass Fabrics
  • clearance
Jungle Romp - Minky 2247MKP-49 Multi by Betsey Cavallo for Henry Glass Fabrics
$29.98 $17.99
Qty
Nantucket Summer Quilting Cuddle Fat Quarter Bundle Camille Roskelley for Moda Fabrics
Nantucket Summer Quilting Cuddle Fat Quarter Bundle Camille Roskelley for Moda Fabrics
10 Fat Quarters Included
$76.50
Qty
Nantucket Summer Quilting Cuddle 55260-21QC Cream Navy by Camille Roskelley for Moda Fabrics
Nantucket Summer Quilting Cuddle 55260-21QC Cream Navy by Camille Roskelley for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Nantucket Summer Quilting Cuddle 55260-24QC Light Blue by Camille Roskelley for Moda Fabrics
Nantucket Summer Quilting Cuddle 55260-24QC Light Blue by Camille Roskelley for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
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Nantucket Summer Quilting Cuddle 55261-23QC Navy by Camille Roskelley for Moda Fabrics
Nantucket Summer Quilting Cuddle 55261-23QC Navy by Camille Roskelley for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Nantucket Summer Quilting Cuddle 55261-26QC Grass by Camille Roskelley for Moda Fabrics
Nantucket Summer Quilting Cuddle 55261-26QC Grass by Camille Roskelley for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds
Nantucket Summer Quilting Cuddle 55262-16QC Grass by Camille Roskelley for Moda Fabrics
Nantucket Summer Quilting Cuddle 55262-16QC Grass by Camille Roskelley for Moda Fabrics
$22.98
Yds

Minky Fabric: Soft, Plush and Made to Be Cuddled

Few fabrics invite you to reach out and touch them quite like minky.

Minky fabric is a soft polyester microfiber plush knit known for its velvety surface, warmth, and cuddly feel. It's a favorite for quilt backs, blankets, baby projects, stuffed animals, pillows, apparel, and other sewing projects where softness matters.

Minky is available in solids, prints, panels, embossed textures, different pile heights, and a growing selection of fabrics developed specifically for quilters.

At Shabby Fabrics, you'll find traditional minky alongside Cuddle® and Quilting Cuddle®, giving you options for everything from an irresistibly soft quilt back to an entire quilt pieced from plush fabric.

What Is Minky Fabric?

Minky is a polyester microfiber plush knit fabric.

The soft fibers extending from the knitted base create the plush surface that gives minky its signature feel. Depending on the particular product, minky can have a short smooth pile, a longer luxurious pile, an embossed texture, or a printed design.

Because minky is a knit rather than a traditional woven quilting cotton, standard minky can also have more stretch than quilting cotton.

That combination of softness, warmth, drape, and stretch gives minky its distinctive character—and explains why sewing with traditional minky can feel different from sewing with cotton.

Is Cuddle® the Same as Minky?

Cuddle® is minky, but not all minky is Cuddle®.

Minky is the general type of polyester microfiber plush knit fabric.

Cuddle® is the trademarked name Shannon Fabrics uses for its family of minky fabrics.

Think of minky as the broad fabric category and Cuddle® as a particular branded family within that category.

That's why you may see terms such as:

  • minky fabric

  • Cuddle® minky fabric

  • Cuddle® fabric

  • Luxe Cuddle®

  • Cuddle® 3

  • Quilting Cuddle®

They are related, but they do not necessarily describe identical products.

Understanding the terminology makes it much easier to choose the right plush fabric for your project.

What Is Quilting Cuddle®?

Quilting Cuddle® changes what quilters can do with plush fabric.

Developed by Shannon Fabrics specifically with quilters in mind, Quilting Cuddle® is a low-pile minky with a 1.5 mm pile, minimal stretch, and a quilter-friendly width of approximately 45 inches.

Traditional Cuddle® is especially popular for quilt backing and plush sewing. Quilting Cuddle® was engineered to make minky much more practical for piecing the quilt top itself.

That means you can use the familiar cutting and piecing concepts of quilting while creating something extraordinarily soft.

Quilting Cuddle® is available in solids as well as printed collections, opening an entirely new direction for plush quilting.

Quilting Cuddle® Meets Moda Fabrics

One of the most exciting developments in plush quilting is the arrival of Moda designer collections on Quilting Cuddle®.

This combines recognizable artwork from favorite Moda designers with the softness of Shannon Fabrics' low-pile Quilting Cuddle®.

Instead of using plush fabric only on the back of a cotton quilt, quilters can now piece with coordinated printed Cuddle® fabrics on the front.

Look for Quilting Cuddle® collections and solids throughout this page, including prints adapted from popular quilting collections.

Traditional Minky vs. Quilting Cuddle®

Both fabrics are wonderfully soft, but they are designed to excel at somewhat different jobs.

Traditional minky or standard Cuddle® typically has a plush surface and more stretch. It's a favorite for quilt backing, blankets, throws, stuffed animals, pillows, and other soft sewing projects.

Quilting Cuddle® has a shorter 1.5 mm pile, minimal stretch, and a width similar to traditional quilting cotton. It was developed specifically to make cutting, piecing, quilting, appliqué, and other sewing applications more manageable.

If you want plush softness primarily on the back of a quilt, traditional minky can be an excellent choice.

If you want to piece a quilt top from plush fabric, Quilting Cuddle® deserves special consideration.

What Is Cuddle® 3?

Cuddle® 3, sometimes called C3, smooth Cuddle®, or regular Cuddle®, is Shannon Fabrics' classic smooth minky.

The “3” refers to its approximately 3 mm pile.

Cuddle® 3 is generally wider than conventional quilting cotton, at approximately 58"–60" wide, which can make it especially useful for blankets, throws, plush projects, and quilt backs.

Its smooth, short plush surface delivers the softness people associate with Cuddle® without the much longer pile found in Luxe Cuddle®.

What Is Luxe Cuddle®?

Luxe Cuddle® takes plush fabric in an even softer, loftier direction.

Luxe Cuddle® has a higher pile—generally 10 mm or more—and is available in solids, embossed textures, and prints.

The additional pile creates a deeply plush surface suited to luxurious throws, pillows, stuffed animals, apparel, and quilt backing.

If standard minky feels soft, Luxe Cuddle® is designed to make texture an even bigger part of the finished project.

Minky Fabric for Quilt Backing

One of the most popular uses for minky is quilt backing.

Pairing a traditional cotton quilt top with a plush minky back gives you the visual detail of pieced quilting cotton on one side and an exceptionally soft surface on the other.

Minky backing is especially popular for:

  • baby quilts

  • children's quilts

  • lap quilts

  • throws

  • cuddle quilts

  • cold-weather quilts

  • gifts

Before purchasing backing, always check the actual width of the specific minky fabric you're considering. Minky products are produced in different widths, and the amount required will depend on both the fabric width and the dimensions of your quilt.

For conventional wide cotton backings, you can also explore 108" Quilt Backing Fabric.

Can You Make an Entire Quilt from Minky?

Yes—and Quilting Cuddle® makes this especially exciting.

Traditional minky can be pieced, but its stretch and plush pile require different handling than woven quilting cotton.

Quilting Cuddle® was specifically developed with a lower pile and minimal stretch so it behaves more predictably during cutting and piecing.

That makes plush quilts possible from front to back.

Use coordinated Quilting Cuddle® prints, combine prints with Quilting Cuddle® solids, or choose a pattern with larger pieces when you want the softness and artwork to take center stage.

Browse Quilt Patterns for inspiration, while remembering to confirm that your selected pattern and techniques are appropriate for the fabric you plan to use.

Minky Fabric for Baby Quilts and Blankets

Minky and Cuddle® are especially popular for baby sewing because of their exceptionally soft surface.

Use minky for:

  • baby quilt backing

  • receiving and cuddle blankets

  • stroller blankets

  • nursery pillows and accessories

  • soft toys

  • loveys

  • changing-pad accessories

  • children's throws

Printed minky also makes it possible to coordinate the softness of plush fabric with animals, children's characters, florals, seasonal artwork, and other nursery-friendly themes.

When making any item intended for a baby or young child, follow the pattern's construction and safety recommendations carefully.

Printed Minky Fabric

Minky isn't limited to solids.

Printed minky brings color and artwork to the plush surface, allowing the fabric itself to become part of the design.

Shabby Fabrics carries printed minky from quilting manufacturers and designers, including coordinating prints and collections that may already be familiar from quilting cotton.

Printed minky can be especially effective for blankets, quilt backs, children's projects, stuffed animals, pillows, and simple projects where larger fabric areas allow the artwork to remain visible.

Minky Fabric Panels

A minky panel combines the convenience of a preprinted panel with the softness of plush fabric.

Panels may contain one large focal design, multiple blocks, character artwork, project pieces, or other prearranged imagery.

Because much of the design work is already printed onto the fabric, minky panels can be excellent starting points for quick blankets, children's projects, pillows, stuffed projects, and other plush sewing.

When shopping panels, always read the individual product information for the panel dimensions and intended use.

You can also explore our broader selection of Quilt Panel Fabric.

Solid Minky and Quilting Cuddle® Solids

Sometimes the softness is the star.

Solid minky provides plush texture without adding another printed motif, making it easy to coordinate with a colorful quilt top or printed fabric.

Quilting Cuddle® Solids extend that idea into piecing. Their low pile and minimal stretch allow a solid plush fabric to become part of quilt blocks, appliqué, patchwork, apparel, and other sewing.

Use solids to create contrast beside printed Quilting Cuddle®, build an entire project around a favorite color palette, or coordinate a plush backing with the colors in your quilt top.

How Is Minky Different from Fleece?

Minky and fleece are both soft synthetic fabrics, but they aren't the same.

Minky is generally a plush knit fabric with a distinct soft pile on its surface, creating the velvety feel for which it is known.

Fleece has a different construction and surface texture and is commonly used for blankets, apparel, jackets, and other warm projects.

Which one is better depends on the project and the texture you want.

Choose minky when an especially plush, silky-soft surface is the priority.

Explore Fleece Fabric through our Fabrics by Type selection when you're comparing fabric options for your next project.

How Is Minky Different from Flannel?

Minky and flannel can both make a quilt feel warmer and cozier, but they're very different fabrics.

Minky is a plush polyester knit with a soft pile.

Quilting flannel is generally a woven fabric with a brushed surface that gives it softness without creating the same plush pile as minky.

Flannel can be used for quilt tops, backing, pajamas, and many cold-weather sewing projects.

Minky is the better choice when you specifically want that unmistakably plush, cuddly texture.

Explore Flannel Fabric through our Fabrics by Type selection.

Tips for Sewing with Traditional Minky

Traditional minky behaves differently from quilting cotton, but a few adjustments can make sewing much easier.

Pay attention to the nap.
The plush fibers have a direction. Keep the nap consistent when cutting pieces if you want the finished project to have a uniform appearance.

Control the stretch.
Because standard minky is a knit, it can shift or stretch while sewing.

Secure your layers well.
Pins, clips, or an appropriate basting method can help prevent layers from moving.

Consider a walking foot.
A walking foot can help feed multiple layers more evenly.

Use an appropriate needle and thread.
The best setup depends on the particular minky and project, so consult the fabric manufacturer's recommendations when available.

Expect some fuzz when cutting.
Cutting plush fabric can release loose fibers. Keeping a lint roller or vacuum nearby makes cleanup easier.

And remember: Quilting Cuddle® is intentionally different. Its lower pile and minimal stretch were developed specifically to make quilting and piecing easier.

How Do You Wash Minky and Cuddle® Fabric?

Care instructions can vary by manufacturer and product, so always follow the instructions supplied with the specific fabric.

For Quilting Cuddle®, Shannon Fabrics recommends machine washing cold with like colors, avoiding fabric softener, and tumble drying with no heat without a dryer sheet.

High heat can be particularly problematic for polyester plush fabrics, so following the manufacturer's care instructions helps protect the fabric's soft surface.

If you're combining minky with other materials in the same project, make sure your care method is appropriate for all of the fabrics and materials used.

Does Minky Fabric Stretch?

Traditional minky commonly has some stretch because it is a knit fabric.

The amount and direction of stretch can vary by product.

That is one reason traditional minky may require a little more attention during cutting and sewing than woven quilting cotton.

Quilting Cuddle® has minimal stretch by design, making it more stable for piecing and quilting.

If stretch is important to your project, check the specifications for the exact fabric before purchasing.

Does Minky Have a Nap?

Most plush minky fabrics have a nap, meaning the surface fibers naturally lie in a particular direction.

Run your hand across the fabric one way and then the other and you may notice a difference in both feel and appearance.

For projects made from multiple pieces, consider cutting them with the nap running consistently unless the pattern or desired effect calls for something different.

Minky for Stuffed Animals and Plush Toys

Minky's soft surface makes it a natural choice for stuffed animals and plush sewing.

Different minky textures can create different effects. Smooth minky produces a classic velvety surface, while higher-pile plush can add even more texture.

Minky can also be used selectively—for example, for an animal's ears, belly, paws, or appliqué details—alongside other fabrics.

Always use an appropriate pattern and construction methods, particularly when the finished project is intended for a young child.

Minky for Pillows, Throws and Home Décor

Plush fabric isn't only for babies.

Minky and Cuddle® can add warmth and texture throughout the home.

Try it for:

  • throw blankets

  • decorative pillows

  • reading-nook quilts

  • lap quilts

  • bedroom accents

  • soft seasonal décor

  • pet blankets

  • cozy gifts

Higher-pile plush fabrics can make texture itself a design feature, while printed minky can bring recognizable motifs and color into a room.

Choosing the Right Minky for Your Project

Not every minky is identical, so start with the project you want to make.

For quilt backing: consider traditional minky or Cuddle® and pay close attention to fabric width.

For pieced quilt tops: look closely at Quilting Cuddle®, which was designed specifically for quilting.

For maximum plushness: consider higher-pile products such as Luxe Cuddle®.

For baby blankets: choose a soft minky print, solid, or Cuddle® appropriate for your pattern.

For stuffed animals: smooth, textured, and higher-pile minky can all create different effects.

For printed projects: choose minky or Quilting Cuddle® featuring artwork and colors that complement the rest of your project.

The product description is your best guide for the exact width, pile, fiber content, care instructions, and characteristics of each fabric.

Shop Minky Fabric by the Yard

Buying minky fabric by the yard gives you flexibility to choose exactly how much plush fabric your project requires.

Before ordering, check:

  • fabric width

  • project dimensions

  • directional prints

  • nap direction

  • pattern repeat

  • required seam allowances

  • whether the fabric will be used for piecing or backing

For quilt backing in particular, calculate your needs based on the actual width of the minky you're purchasing, not the standard width of quilting cotton.

Why Quilters Are Excited About Quilting Cuddle®

For years, many quilters have loved minky primarily as the wonderfully soft fabric on the back of a quilt.

Quilting Cuddle® opens the door to putting that softness on the front, too.

With its 1.5 mm low pile, minimal stretch, and quilting-friendly width, it bridges the gap between traditional plush minky and the familiar format of quilting fabric.

Add coordinated prints from favorite quilting designers, solids, Fat Quarter Bundles, and panels, and plush fabric becomes much more than backing—it becomes the quilt itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is minky fabric?

Minky is a soft polyester microfiber plush knit fabric. Its plush surface makes it popular for quilt backing, blankets, baby projects, stuffed animals, pillows, apparel, and other projects where softness and warmth are important.

Is minky the same as Cuddle® fabric?

Cuddle® is a brand of minky made by Shannon Fabrics. Minky is the broader fabric type, so Cuddle® belongs within the minky family, but not every minky fabric is Cuddle®.

What is Quilting Cuddle®?

Quilting Cuddle® is a low-pile minky fabric developed by Shannon Fabrics specifically for quilters. It has a 1.5 mm pile, minimal stretch, and an approximately 45" quilter-friendly width, making it suitable for piecing, quilting, patchwork, appliqué, apparel, and more.

What is the difference between regular Cuddle® and Quilting Cuddle®?

Traditional Cuddle® is a plush minky commonly used for quilt backing, blankets, plush toys, and other soft projects. Quilting Cuddle® has a shorter 1.5 mm pile, minimal stretch, and a width similar to quilting cotton, making it particularly well suited to piecing quilt tops.

What is Cuddle® 3?

Cuddle® 3 is Shannon Fabrics' classic smooth Cuddle® minky with an approximately 3 mm pile. It is generally 58"–60" wide and is used for blankets, quilts, plush toys, appliqué, and other soft sewing projects.

What is Luxe Cuddle®?

Luxe Cuddle® is Shannon Fabrics' higher-pile minky family. Luxe Cuddle® fabrics generally have a pile of 10 mm or more and are available in solids, embossed textures, and prints for exceptionally plush projects.

Can I use minky for quilt backing?

Yes. Minky is extremely popular for quilt backing because it gives a quilt a warm, plush, cuddly reverse side. Always check the width of the specific minky before calculating the yardage needed for your quilt.

Can I piece a quilt with minky fabric?

Yes. Traditional minky can be pieced with appropriate techniques, but its stretch and pile require more care than conventional quilting cotton. Quilting Cuddle® was specifically developed with low pile and minimal stretch to make piecing and quilting easier.

Can I make an entire quilt from Quilting Cuddle®?

Yes. Quilting Cuddle® can be used for pieced quilt tops, and coordinated prints and solids make it possible to create an entire plush quilt rather than limiting minky to the backing.

Is minky fabric good for baby blankets?

Minky is a popular choice for baby blankets, quilt backs, nursery projects, and other soft sewing because of its plush feel. Always follow appropriate patterns and safety recommendations for items intended for babies and young children.

Is minky fabric 100% polyester?

Minky is typically made from polyester, and the minky and Quilting Cuddle® products described here are polyester plush fabrics. Check each individual product listing for exact fiber content because specifications can vary by manufacturer and product.

Does minky fabric stretch?

Traditional minky commonly has some stretch because it is a knit. The amount can vary. Quilting Cuddle® was specifically developed with minimal stretch to make it easier to cut, piece, and sew for quilting.

Does minky fabric have a nap?

Plush minky generally has a nap, meaning its surface fibers lie in a direction. Paying attention to nap direction when cutting can help keep the appearance and feel consistent across a project.

How wide is minky fabric?

Minky width varies by product. Traditional Cuddle® 3 is generally around 58"–60" wide, while Quilting Cuddle® is approximately 45" wide. Extra-wide Cuddle® products can be much wider. Always use the width listed for the specific product when calculating yardage.

How do I wash minky fabric?

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for your particular fabric. Shannon Fabrics recommends machine washing Quilting Cuddle® cold with like colors, using no fabric softener, and tumble drying with no heat and no dryer sheet.

Can you iron minky fabric?

Because minky is generally polyester and heat can affect synthetic fibers and plush surfaces, don't assume it can be pressed like quilting cotton. Follow the manufacturer's care and pressing recommendations for the exact product you're using.

What needle should I use for minky fabric?

The ideal needle can depend on the type of minky and project. Shannon Fabrics' Cuddle® sewing guidance recommends a 90/14 stretch needle for its traditional Cuddle® sewing applications. Always consider the specific fabric, thread, batting, and number of layers in your project.

Is minky difficult to sew?

Traditional minky can require some adjustment because of its stretch, nap, and plush surface, but it is very manageable with proper preparation and sewing techniques. Quilting Cuddle® was developed specifically to reduce some of those challenges for quilters by using a lower pile and minimal stretch.

What can I make with minky fabric?

Minky can be used for quilt backing, quilts, blankets, baby projects, stuffed animals, plush toys, pillows, apparel, throws, appliqué, home décor, and many other sewing projects.

What is the best minky for quilting?

It depends on how you plan to use it. Traditional minky and Cuddle® are excellent choices for plush quilt backing. If you want to cut and piece the plush fabric into the quilt top itself, Quilting Cuddle® was specifically developed for that purpose.

Where can I buy minky fabric by the yard?

Shop this Minky Fabric category at Shabby Fabrics for minky, Cuddle®, Quilting Cuddle®, printed minky, solids, panels, and other plush fabrics for quilting and sewing.