If you use lower thread count and make sure the fabric is 100% cotton there should be no problem. Sheets that have a poly/cotton blend are more likely to pill.

Are you talking about pilling? Piling..meaning to make piles...

;)

I think if you only use 100% cotton, you won't have that problem. I was always taught it is the polyester in the sheet that is doing the pilling.

Yes, I have for years -- however I use new sheets and it is getting harder to find 100% cotton flat sheets in a lower number weave at a reasonable price and not in sets -- I have also used sheets in piecing and for background fabric --no problem handquilting them either -- sheets have provided lots of backing fabric for me!!

Quilting cotton is usually about 70 in thread count. Even the lower thread count sheets are higher than that, so no worries on that score.

I've used the cotton (and even some blends without pilling), but never, never for hand quilting regardless the thread count. If you're quilting by machine, go for it. I find more suitable sheet backings at our local dollar store (less thread count) and they wear just fine.

I have used them many times and am very happy with the result.

I know some LAers will say no sheets as backings but I haven't had any problem with them as long as they are prewashed.

The first present I ever remember getting was a quilt from my Grandma. Double-knit polyester patchwork, hand knotted and backed with a sheet. I loved the pattern of the sheet, but it had worn out by the time I was in high school (so, maybe 15 years). My sister got one backed with yardage, and it was still going strong. I'm hesitant to use sheets because of this experience; I don't know why that one wore so badly, but it was heartbreaking.

That being said, if you can get a low thread count cotton sheet made from good quality cotton, I imagine it would be ok. My mom was in a charity group that used sheets as backing, and it worked well enough, although it was hard to find suitable sheets.

I've gotten sheets at places like Big Lots and look for a low count thread then take them home and throw into the wash in warm water and hot dryer. I use a dryer sheet also and a very sharp needle. Estate/garage sales are good places. Need to check on label to make sure it's cotton sometimes cotton 65%/polyester 35%. Still wash in warm water no matter what.

I use sheets for backings all the time. I have also used them cut up for blocks, have never had any problems.