Sorry to get to basics, Ive been looking for 100% white cotton fabric for backing and some boarders. Im getting confused with all the different types of fabric. Is it ok to use muslin. I have found that the basic white cotton is very expensive. is there any alternative.

oh and yes, whats the difference between normal cotton and flannel. Im doing my fabric shopping online as there are no fabric shops near by.

It is OK to use muslin. I have.

I"ve used muslin alot. Best part is most of it comes in the 108" :)

When all else fails, use a bed sheet!

I make charity quilts and buy used sheets at Thrift stores. It saves a lot of money and does not need piecing. Used sheets are most often soft from repeated washing and work well to give a nice soft backing to the quilt.

Those who are making "heirloom" quilts don't like this idea, but I find they extend my budget and saves time in piecing.

I also have used the 108 inch backing on big quilts when a good sheet in the appropriate color cannot be found.

would muslin not make it very see-through?

Muslin comes in different weights but you usually can't see through it. I have used it with success. I think it sometimes is a little wrinkly but for a back it gives it charm.

I very rarely anymore use anything other than a sheet for my backs. It saves me money and time in peicing. Right now I'm working on a quilt that is going to have a flannel backing, but only because the person I'm doing it for wanted it to be very very warm.

I say use muslin and call it good!

Like everyone else, I've used muslin and sheets. I've also pieced fabric together for a backing for a special quilt.

I've used muslin with success. You can see in the pic that its not see through.

[IMG]http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k2...lts/blockb.jpg[/IMG]

Can't answer that, but welcome to the board from Washington