patchwork quilt back
 

I've been working on a quilt called Raining Cats and Dogs. Tons of applique and I used a ton of different fabrics. If I piece the backing with all the fabrics I use, would that look weird? Also, would all the seams make the backing weaker? I'd love everyone's opinion on this. Thanks!

Michelle

I make pieced backs all the time -- in essence, 95% of my quilts are reversible. I think using leftover fabrics from the front gives it a more cohesive look. I've never felt all the seams make the backing weaker -- I use good fabric, good thread, and the machine quilting locks everything together.

I don't think it would look weird. I've never thought of seams making a backing weak. I make double sided quilts all the time. It started out when I was making this really odd colored quilt and I didn't want any of 'that' fabric left over...and in my home. It was really outside of my comfort zone.

Good luck to you and your raining cats and dogs quilt!

I do pieced backs all the time...which I design as I go. It makes for a reversible quilt and NO additions to my scrap " collection". It's fun to make up something on my own...just play without the stress of matching,squaring up etc.

I usually use larger pieces on the back just so that you don't encounter thickness from BOTH the top and bottom. It may cause a sewing machine to skip a stitch or two because of the thickness of the bulk.

I also add some blocks or light piecing to my backs to add interest to the overall quilt. I say go for it!!

Double ditto!

I think it would be lovely and so many people make pieced backs that I don't think it would make it weaker. I hope you will post pics!

I have done this several times and it is nice to use up some smaller pieces instead of going and buying the big stuff, although I do like the single piece backs as well, when I am giving it to someone special.

I never thought of the back being weaker by being pieced. I don't think that's a problem, and I piece most of my quilt backs to one degree or another. Here's one I pieced more than usual - http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...in-t23612.html

And once I pieced the back as if it were another top - http://www.quiltingboard.com/picture...k-t216883.html.

I think piecing the back is a great way to use up scraps.