Some great ideas.....I buy mattress protectors (the quilted kind), cut the straps off and voila - batting. It can be joined successfully and they are really cheap to buy from charity shops. Also look for blankets and for summer quilts sheets. For couch quilts/lap quilts you can use cheap acrylic throws for batting. Used clothing is fantastic for quilts (fronts and backs) and don't forget you can often pick up fabric and sewing supplies via internet sales sites, opportunity shops, car-boot and garage sales. You will be surprised at what is out there - and hiding in the depths of your wardrobe. Just don't stop quilting.