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After getting a sticker shock for wide/backing fabric at Joanns I went to Walmart and bought flat sheets for $5. They are 60% cotton and 40% polyester. Can I use it for backing? I have a receipt, I can always take them back. At Walmart I also found fabric clearance bin and bought total of 7 yds of different cotton fabric for $1/yard or $2/yard which would have to be pieced to make the backing. Cotton/poly sheet or pieced backing?
I've got a smile on my face, I've got four walls around me
The sun in the sky, the water surrounds me
I'll win now but sometimes I'll lose
I've been battered, but I'll never bruise
try it & see how you like it- there will be people who will tell you NEVER use a sheet for backing- then there will be some who will tell you they do it all the time-
some people will NEVER use a polyester- or a poly blend- again- others will tell you they do it all the time
i can tell you- (sometimes) using a sheet makes it a bit more difficult to quilt- the weave is tighter than the quilting cottons we often use-
polyester wears well- it also does not soften up like cottons do- a 100% cotton will soften with each wash --- polyester will pretty much stay exactly like it is- so it's not as *snuggly*
but really- if you like the fabric- the color is right- and you want to give it a try- do so- it is your project & everyone has the right to use what they like/can afford/works for them
hiding away in my stash where i'm warm, safe and happy
IMHO only....would stick with all cotton. The poly/cotton sheet MAY be so slick it will slide off the bed....
Yes that is a real picture of my hometown Temecula, California. We feature premiere Wineries, World Class Golf Courses, Pechanga Indian Casino and Hot Air Balloons
I only use cotton poly sheets on my beds since they don't wrinkle, are easier to make the bed with and always look neat. I have never regretted sleeping under them. I can't imagine that they won't make a good backing for a quilt that goes on top of them on my bed.
My sister has made dozens of quilts using sheets as backings. I wouldn't hesitate one minute trying one out. her quilts are utility quilts, and they wear well. My whole family has them.
I have used those same Walmart sheets many times..actually whenever I can to help wiht the budget..I have never had a bit if trouble with them. THe quilts went to young grandchildren, and are washed frequently and are holding up very well! Actually my DIL bought the same sheets for the boys beds so it matches
I use sheets all the time on the backs of my quilts. They machine quilt easily, wash and dry well and do not slide off the bed! Most of the quilts I make are for kids or are college bound and are washed frequently. A sheet would probably not be my back of choice for an embroidered hand quilted heirloom but it is great for a scrappy disappearing nine patch. Backings need to be chosen with the recipient and use in mind. Sheets are economical and may be perfect for you.
Shelbie from the High County in Southern Ontario
I have made a lot of quilts with sheets on the back. An they are still going strong. Try it see if you like it. joyce j
I have used a poly/cotton on the back of a quilt. It works well if you are machine quilting. If you are hand quilting, it will be difficult to needle.
The Walmart ones she mentioned worked great for me and were not hard to hand needle (probably lower thread count) I would think the more expensive ones with higher thread count might be more difficult..Originally Posted by Tartan
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