i did a signature quilt for my daughter's graduation. turned out she really preferred the signatures on the back. she made a good point: what if i end up having a falling out with that person, if it is on the back, i can still use it and not be reminded everyday of them. Therefore i go with finish the front and put the signatures on the back. i did give my completely quilted and the guests used fabric crayons, which worked well and gave them the option of being creative if they wanted. a few drew pictures rather than just signed their names