When I make quilts for people I always ask them about the back, and my 100% response is "can't you just put something plain on" ie a plain solid colour.

Now I hate using a solid colour on the back (did it once, never again unless it's a wallhanging) it must have some texture to the colour and preferably a small scale or tone-on-tone design, though I would use something like moda marbles, or makower spray time ranges if pushed. Usually I use batiks, but I like a lot of fabric on the extra wide sections of shops, so don't usually struggle too much for a co-ordinating print :)

I guess it's a matter of opinion. I think pieced backs are awesome-even if they're randomly pieced. I regularly look here. pieced backs on flickr

I guess if I made someone a quilt with a pieced back and they complained, I would take the quilt back and give to someone who would appreciate it. Or keep it for myself.

Here is the reversible quilt I made with each side very different, both sides done all with scraps. Just FYI as a way to use what you've got on hand for a backing.

These two photos show the reverse of each side.
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And I bet you loved every moment you spent on it! What a stunner. I love, love, love it. But then, I have also to say that to each his own and if you don't really enjoy that process, there is absolutely no reason why you should go there at all. Your quilt will be just as worthy if only the top is beautiful. Enjoy what you do ladies!

I quilt for my enjoyment. If I'm making a quilt for someone, I consider their personality and preferences. Otherwise, I do whatever strikes my fancy. I've got several tops waiting to be quilted. Some will have plain backs, some a simple pieced design. I let the quilt "speak" to me and go from there.

I admire the ability to make a real double sided quilt (such as the one postal packin mama made, shown above), but it's not something I would attempt. I think it's nice that we can all do things in our own unique way while still appreciating the skills of others.

I'm with you... I love to piece. Don't like the finishing. So getting two for one works for me. I don't do it because I think the back needs to look as good as the front. It just makes sense to me to do the part I like best twice and only have to do the sandwich/quilting part once.

postal packin moma, that is awsome. i hope you kept it after all that work you put into it.
love it. it is beautiful.
backings are really a matter of choice. we each do our own thing, and what is right for us.
for me, right is making the top as perfect as i can. but all my backings almost cost as much as the top, but they are all made with the very best, at least 200 count unbleached muslin that i can find. i just like the looks of it. sorta ole'timey. and i like the feel of it. it feels like a fine bedsheet. and many of my quilts are used for covers without sheets. and i hope people do their best to wear them out. and use them up. with love.