I, too have to watch my pennies. I buy sheets that are still in good condition at garage sales. Since I am physically unable to hand quilt, the fact that the sheet fabric might be too tightly woven is not a consideration. I either machine quilt or tie all my quilts. I find that sheets that have been washed several times but are not worn make good backs.

I, too have to watch my pennies. I buy sheets that are still in good condition at garage sales. Since I am physically unable to hand quilt, the fact that the sheet fabric might be too tightly woven is not a consideration. I either machine quilt or tie all my quilts. I find that sheets that have been washed several times but are not worn make good backs.

I have been using a 100% cotton sheet for foundation strip piecing.(recycing) I'll be using a pretty backing which will be machine tacked. I think this will be OK?

Just wanted to let anyone within driving distance of Sir's Fabric store in Fayetteville Tn. that it is worth your while to shop there. It's like fabric heaven. They have so many choices and wonderful prices. You can also order on line at Sirsfabric.com. My mother and I live in Alabama and do a good bit of quilting and make a run to Sir's a couple times a year.

I have family in Fayetteville, that would be another good reason to go and visit!!

Billy

That's all i use for backing is bed sheets and the ladies i quilt with also use sheets we send our quilts out to be quilted haven't had a problem yet. :P

How do sheets compare to the usual quilting fabric as far as thread count?

Side note: I know Target sells flat & fitted individually because we have a double bed, and I routinely buy the full fitted sheet and a queen top sheet and blanket when I'm buying bedding. That way, we get the extra width that cuts down on disputes over who's hogging the covers. ;)

What an interesting thread for beginners like myself, I have learnt SO much from you all, thankyou so much! I think I shall be prepared to give sheets a try.

For my QS quilt which I hand quilted I used the very wide 100% cotton calico which I washed a few times, I chose it because it is so soft , did I do the right thing could it be too soft and not last the distance?

Gal

I am on disability also, and yes you do have to improvise sometimes. A very good place to buy sheets very cheap is at the goodwill stores.

Do you all use anything in between your quilt top and sheet?

Yes, I usually use poly batting. If the quilt is a very special one I use cotton. Most of mine are for grandchildren's use and the poly washes easily and the cost is less. I do want them to be used.

I use batting as in regular quilting

ok Thank you, I am new to quilting but have pieced tops ever since I was 12.

Bed sheets sounds like a good idea for lots of people. Like I always say if it works, do it.

I do use some batting between my quilt top and sheet. If you have some flannel fabric you could use that, you would just need to be sure to wash it first to get shrinkage out.

yes I use batting or flannel depending on what I am doing

Interesting question.

Yes, for a traditional definition of a quilt, the finished project has to have 3 layers, the top, the back, and a layer in between, usually something for warmth like cotton or other batting or wadding or old blankets or other filler. Can be thick or thin.

If the finished project has only the topping and the back, it really is more of a lined tablecloth or lined bed coverlet, more useful for beauty than warmth.