This is what I would do (and have done it!) You said ''bear's paw''--make enough blocks to add a row across the bottom of the backing....maybe smaller blocks than in the quilt top . Doesn't even have to be the same fabrics as the front as long as it is the same block pattern....it will coordinate. I don't let small stuff like this get to me. Of course, I like to piece my backing at the top of the quilt where you turn it back...but bottom is okay too. I would rather see the bear paw blocks that little strips sewn on. Just Sayin'.......