string quilts why use base?
 

Since these are made with strips of fabric why bother with a paper or muslin/fabric base?
Couldn't you just sew strips together then cut out the shape you want whether it's square of triangle?
If it's because of the bias edges which would only be the width of each strip there should be very little stretching.
What am I missing?

I use muslin as a base, because my strings have different widths and not always straight. With a wide variety of fabrics, it helps stabilize the piece, as some fabrics even all cotton, have a certain amount of give to them. Not all my strings come from the bias either.I save from all parts of fabric cut off....

The best way to know why the backing is used it to make a string block with backing, then one without it. That was the advice I got when I asked the same question. I always choose backing after trying both ways.

All the edges are bias edges. Plus if you're using a base you can use the waste triangles on your corners and have them actually be on the corners.

Exactly right.

I just made one using the used dryer sheets and I love it.

Bias edges turn out to be very stretchy. My first string quilt was a disaster--no backing and I had to take in seams like crazy. Learn from my mistake--use something as a backing: paper, dryer sheets, coffee filters--whatever works.

I think the bet advice is to just try it both ways and you will have your answer.

Hum... learned something else new today... sounds like backing is the way to go.

I think using the backing would be the way to go. I always try to learn new things from ones that have done it. Thanks Ladies.