About a year ago I purchased, at Macy's, a set of Martha Stewert flannel sheets on sale(obviously) They are wonderful -- used for a year and they are not pilled. They shed a bit the first couple of washings, but are still very cozy. I find that Joanne's flannel can vary from stiff to perfect. If you can get it on sale --- but of course you have to piece it ifyou want it for a backing.