I have used 45 inch fabric with seams; have inserted extra squares from the front; and, I have used flannel but it is so heavy to work with and cover up with. The one I am working on now is backed with a wide seamless backing. On this one I am using a lighter color of thread in the bobbin so that the quilting really shows up. On the front I am used several colors of thread to match the squares because I want the fabric pattern to be more prominent than the quilting. I have never used sheets as others have. Isn't it nice to have so many choices.