If by "fabric backs" you mean the wrong side of the fabric, it's because the fabric has been printed on - the printing process is what gives the fabric right side it's color/design/motif. Batiks, on the other hand, do not have a "wrong side" because the process they go thru is a dyed process - the color goes right thru from the right to the wrong side.

This is an excellent question, and there is no 100 % right answer. For instance, I bought a 100% cotton fabric that met all the criteria for a good fabric = weight, hand, color through and through, etc. - except that when I started sewing it, my 1/4" seam frayed away. That really upset me, especially since I paid full price and the fabric was absolutely perfect for the quilt I was using it in.

In my earlier quilting days, I bought some beautiful, thin cottons for quilting because I didn't know what to look for in a fabric. The fabrics were good, but I believe they would qualify as summer shirting fabric, very light weight and easier to see through. Nonetheless, I made quilts from them and the fabrics in the quilts have stood up to 7 years of abuse by my grandsons. The binding is fraying, and there are a few rough spots in them, but the boys don't notice them at all.

connecting threads fabrics are generally good quality and also generally at a lower price. I've purchased from Marshalls dry goods, 1001 bolts and only one nut, fabric.com, etc. and been happy with what I bought.

I shop in the Walmart near me, too. If you are careful you can get some wonderful fabrics at a good price. However, I wouldn't buy from them on line because their fabric quality varies greatly and I can't check it!

Good luck in your search!

First of all, break the bank and buy something like Moda or Thimbleberries fabric. Make a whole quilt out of it.

Then you'll know.

In the future compare the fabrics you see or touch to those you used in that quilt. I guarantee it--you will understand and know the difference.

Learn the manufactures of quality goods and check labels on the ends of bolts... until you get a good sense of the feel in your hand. Once you work with the good stuff , you can't go back.

There is no comparison when you work with good fabric. Has anyone actually sewn with the new American Made fabric from Hancocks of Paducah. I am really curious about it! Would love to support them if the quality is good!

First I "feel" a fabric, is it harsh, rough stiff? Then I hold it up to the light, can I see lots of daylight? If so, put it down and forget it. If it feels like satin, buy it.

If you lose your reference point, this is the solution.

If it feels stiff I pass it up. That means it has too much sizing and after being washed it will be limp and maybe even faded. I also look at the weave to make sure it is straight. I also pay attention to the "up and down" of the print. Fabric where all the print is going in one direction is sometimes very challenging to put in a quilt.

I am concerned about the feel - too heavy? Too stiff?