My initial thought was that 3 1/4 isn't enough, so I guess I wouldn't be much help to the mom. And I don't think it's reasonable to plan to piece the back when you are teaching a class. For those of us who sew a lot, a pieced back isn't a big deal. But in a class, I think most students will want to be able to finish without having to piece the back just to save $10.
At least, I know I wouldn't. :roll: