flannel backed quilts are wonderful! pre-wash, use good quality flannel (double sided if possible) and you will love the results. when i use good (benartex double sided flannel) i have found one pre-wash is enough...when using lesser - single sided inexpensive flannel you will want to wash it a couple times...problem with the lesser quality flannels is ... they pill....get those tiny (balls) all over the surface. this does not happen when using good quality flannel.