mp speedy,
The reason for advising to do a print back is for beginner's. If the work isn't perfect, it doesn't matter as much. As you progress, you willl most likely prefer the solid backs. That is one thing I wish I had known when I first started. All of my learning mistakes showed on my first few. I did not know to start off with a patterned back for learning............But, I do love the look of the stitches to show now that I am better.
I guess it just depends on your skill levels.......LOL :)