When piecing backing fabric for a quilt how big of a seam do you make? Any suggestions? 1/4 inch seems like it would pull out to easily, but then a wider one means more fabric to quilt through.

Sheila

I use 1/4" But always make my back in 3 pieces. I do not put a seam down the middle.

A quarter inch seam is fine. Once it's quilted there is no stress on it. Use a half inch if you still aren't sure about it.

I use 1/4 in seams. I sew the 2 pieces together, with right sides together, on both sides, making a tube. then I fold one side in half and press a good seam down the middle, then cut on that line. Makes the back even on both sides.

I just pieced a back from 3 different fabrics and used 1/4" Hard to switch to bigger seams when you're used to the 1/4, One thing I always have to remind myself is trim off the selvage.

I usually use 3/8" seam and press it open, I haven't had a problem sewing through it.

I like your tip Ninnie :D:D:D

I have print out how to do it Ninnie's way.

Click on Download in my last post for the print out.

I had the sane question when I was preparing the backing for my quilt for a show. My long arm quilter asked me to use 1/2" seam and press it open. I followed her suggestion and it worked out beautifully. I shortened the stitch also to make sure it did not pull apart.

I use 1/4 inch seam.

I usually use a 1/2" seam, but that because I have a habit of tearing my backing fabrics to the size I need and I want to be sure that I don't get any of the stretched fabric into my seam.

Jim's Gen you are brave to use the word tear. LOL

I also tear my back fabric. That is the easiest way to get a straight back, but I still use a 1/4" and have not had a problem, even with tearing instead of cutting. I do it even when I use the tube method.

I use 1/4 inch seams. I do a lot of quilting and that holds it. I wash my DGD quilts a lot and they are holding up just fine.