its not weird at all= muslin is used for many aspects of quilting- for piecing/for backings/for foundations/ for what ever you want to use it for- it is a good *utility* fabric

Ok, thanks for your input everyone! I guess I have a lot of different thoughts to consider. : )

Iuse it all the time in blocks and backing, but it is not as good a quality as it was years ago. Hold a single thickness up to the light and if you can see through it, don't buy it. Shrinking it will give it more body but I like the old fashioned kind best.
Broadcloth shrinks too but is better to use than muslin and cheaper than other yard goods. Either was and heat dry both of them or spray with water and iron hot and you will see how much they shrink.

Carol J.

I used Muslim for my front and back of my Jean circle quilt. I did prewash. It looks and feels great! that was the first time I have used Muslim. http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-136336-1.htm I thew this together in a few hours...the FMQ'ing was rushd but I did it just as a fun quilt. Now its becoming everyones favorite...It will be a xmas gift. I am now collecting more jeans. Low cost gifts for a few family members.