Maybe the batting really shifted around leaving gaps. I have seen some older quilts like this.

you learn something new every day around here!!! :shock:

what an idea...makes the last minute gift even quicker to finish

I also do the only-2-layers (top and backing) for pieced/patchwork/appliqué tablecloths.
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I do my rag quilts without batting.

I have made them this way and quilted them the same as if there was batting :D:D:D

Me too. And I don't add batting to my rag quilts either but I do add a smaller inside layer of flannel if I want it a little warmer. If I'm making the rag quilt out of fleece, I don't add a smaller inside layer. But I do sew the "X" over the 2 pieces of fleece to keep them from shifting.

wow - I never even thought of NOT having btting in the quilts! Is it harder or easier to quilt like that?

I think it depends on how much effort you want to put into the actual quilting. Do you just want to do straight lines, or stippling, a design or just outlining. And how thick/thin your batting is if using it.

Thanks for responding to my question. The quilt I saw was BEAUTIFUL. Wouldn't have thought about it not having any batting if I hadn't seen the back side. I do all hand quilting so it looks like this would also be much easier than having the added bulk of the batting. Will try this on my next quilt (which is still several months away). Am still working on a queen size I started several months ago.