Back whenI first started , bleached or unbleached muslin was "the" staple, and was the background for many a quilt. But there was not much in the way of choice. Now I seek out much more interesting fabrics for backgounds. Some times I have to remind my self when I am tempted to by a bolt of a neutral... not to do it as better many be avaiable in just a few months , or my tastes can change.