Originally Posted by
Cedar
Is the excess necessary for hand quilting too?
In my opinion, yes. Layers can shift when hand quilting with or without a hoop. Use the extra backing to cover the exposed batting edges; saves the batting from getting tattered as you work. You need extra backing even if hand quilting on a frame (where everything is attached to rollers, so you do not need to re-hoop). It helps with attachment to the rollers and also if you need to apply side tension to the quilt as you work.