I have used fleece a few times now as the backing and I use just a simple diagonal pattern in the quilting mainly, although I have done free motion on it also. I'm not sure why but I didn't have too many problems. I do give it a reasonable stretch when I lay it out and I pin heavily. I use it on quilts that are really used, like kids quilts so these aren't displayed as much and seen bunched up on a knees or sniggled under. It is just so warm I feel it is worth the effort.