Does anyone know the cotton thread count for quilting fabric? My neighbor just purchased some bed sheets at Macy's and she thinks she can use them for quilts. Although I have heard people using bed sheets for backing, I've never heard of anyone using them for the tops. The bed sheets she purchased are 200 thread count.

If anyone says that's fine for quilts, I'm going to Macy's this weekend! The floral bed sheets she purchased are very pretty, and they were $8.99 a set, twin size.

As far as I know the thread count of quilting fabric can be different. For Kona Cottons 60 by 60 threads per inch is indicated by the manufacturer - that means a thread count of 120.
There are other fabrics with a higher thread count, for example the Japanese fabric of Quilt Gate with about 150.
I have never used bed sheets for quilt backings, therefore I can't give you information about this - but I am sure you will get help here on the board.

somewhere between 100 & 200 is the norm- batiks have a bit higher.
many people re-use sheets- for piecing and backings.

It's my understanding that quilting cotton thread counts range between 60 square and 75 square. The higher counts use thinner threads, resulting in a softer hand.

Check this discussion for more info http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-93689-1.htm

There are several different ways of 'counting' threads, so be sure you're comparing apples to apples. :)

I used a sheet for the background color on a catherdal window quilt. I don't think there's any set rules for what you can or can't use for your quilt. People use T shirt material, silk, velvet, and other fabrics so why not a cotton sheet?

I'd venture to use them for backs, but piecing with a bunch of material of different thread counts and weights will be more of a challenge, the final product may look and feel differently in spots and just isn't worth it, IMO.

Most cotton fabric runs about 120 thread count, except batiks which are much higher. The problem with using a really high thread count fabric comes with quilting it. speaking as a one time husband of a long arm quilter its a pain in the tush.

Tension is the problem, particularly if the high thread count fabric is mixed in wih cotton blocks.

Lanny

Quilting fabric has 60 threads per inch standard. I've found 60 - 65 to be the average. I have a tread counter and take it with me when I shop for fabric. I find most shops have mostly 60 threads per inch fabric, it's not on the bolt anywhere. When I do ask the manager /owner they never know. That's why I take my thread counter.

68 is what I look for premium quilting fabric. It doesn't shrink or ravel very much.

Great idea! I just ordered one - thanks! :)

My mom used bed sheets often for quilts. Mostly she tied these quilts.