I have had issues with black fabrics ( especially older black fabric) and what seems to be a fast disinigration of the cotton fibers. A manufacture told me once they use dyes that are have some acidic content to get really dark colors to saturate, particularly black and some navy. Almost without exception cottons today are not dyed with acid dyes, which is why vinegar does not work to stop bleeding on cottons.
Most likely this was a chemical used in the dye process that was not fully removed. Based on that ...the rest of the backing is at risk... so removing it is the best choice for a long lasting solution.
If this was a quilt that had been washed.. I might be inclined to believe the quilt got bound up in the agitator and caused the tearing. Since it appears the tearing is confined to a specific area ... I would not rule this out , if the quilt had been washed.
You certainly do have hugs coming your way!
Last edited by Lori S; 03-15-2014 at 11:05 AM.