(notice my avatar). The pattern does call for 8.75 and has 3 lengths 27.5x96. I suggest you pick the backing to be some of the same that you use on the front. In my case I used the same muslin for backing as on the front. The Ricky Tims hand dyes are muslin. By the way, if anyone is interested in this pattern, it is on clearance on judys website. It is one of my favorite quilts Ive done. I have shown it at several quilt shows and have ribbons. I find it a coincidence that the calico cat blog has shown it in EXACTLY the same 2 fabrics and used in the same places. I know it isnt mine though because the quilting is different. And oh yes, lining and backing are the same thing!