There are no 'rules', well except 1/4", in quilting - so use the plain fabric if you want!

Totally agree, my first quilt was a sampler with muslin background. I say go for it. No quilt police here.

I have never heard not to use solids. I don't use them that often, but if I liked the look I definitely would.

I love 30's prints, and I love to use a solid against them. I think it makes them pop out more. I use white sheets often as a background fabric, or a solid colored sheet. (200 count all cotton) I machine quilt- I know that sheets are a no-no for hand quilting, because they are too dense. I find that they hold up really well in a quilt for a child- one that might be washed a hundred times in its life.

I agree!

If you like it, we are going to like it too.
If you don't like it, we are probably going to like it anyway.

I think using a solid background would be great. It will make the stars stand out. I say, go for it.

I like solids and prints that "read" as solid for backgrounds. It gives your eyes something soothing to rest on and helps prevent pattern overload.

It's all in how you want it to look. I very rarely buy any solids.

Whatever you like is what you should use. I've used solids, muslin, small patterns and tone on tone. Don't let anyone ever tell you one of your quilts is "boring". Every quilt is unique and beautiful. Beauty or boredom is in the eye of the beholder.

Thankyou all for your great suggestions and wonderful help as usual you all come up with invaluable advise,(I SO LOVE THIS BOARD) I like the idea of 'rest for the eye' areas, and yes I am going to hand quilt, I use scraps mostly and I like the more traditional blocks. I feel a lot more confident now about making my choices, thank you all heaps!!!!!!

Gal