I think there should not be a problem with weight. ties, along with interfacing and fusible are no heavier than cotton fabric handled the same way. I would use a muslin backing, but instead of regular batting, I would use thermolane (sp)..it is a thin fleece like batt used for padded clothing. It is made by pellon and I know JoAnn Fab sells it. I use that for tablerunners and placemats too. As long as you have a full width sleeve on the back there should be no sagging...the weight will be evenly distributed, but I would put a holder on the wall to hold that rod not only on the edges, but also one in the middle..........