I always tear off the selvage. It gives it a nice straight of grain cut. I usually sew my backings in 3 pieces as I was told never to have the seam down the middle. I steam open my seam always. I back stitch on my seam on the back always. I usually add a different fabric also to the back to jazz it up or do something to make the back more interesting. I've never used sheets. Didn't know you could. I've used wide back fabric before. It's nice!