I use sheets for my backing. I don't hand quilt (on anything) so I dont know about that but machine quilting has been good for me. I have a quilt from 7 yrs ago and it has no holes or anything. so I guess I will keep using them.

Okay, you guys are really making me think about going and buying some sheets. I don't hand quilt, and really really like batiks, so I'm wondering if some of the higher thread count sheets would be "softer" for the backs. They can't be tighter than a batik can they?

I've only used a sheet for backing once. It was a practice quilt (my first quilt) to see if I'd like the process. I loved and still love the process. I machine quilted it on my domestic machine and had NO PROBLEMS. It's been on my bed for years now and no holes. It's wearing fine and I don't expect it to wear out any time soon. I've not used a sheet since, but now I'm considering it. Thanks for all the good advise!!!
Doug in Akron, Ohio

Sheets are my new favorite. I went to the thrift store (the day before this thread popped up actually, so I have been reading it closely) and I got some really pretty, really soft sheets to use as backs for my quilts. There is one that is pretty heavy, so it may have a high thread count, so I will be careful using that one, but all the others are so soft and yummy I just want to curl up under them!! I was able to get 6 sheets ranging from Twin to King in all kinds of patterns, for $25.

Also, thanks to the person who suggested that Target King size sheets are like Kona. I am ALWAYS lacking in the solids department as for some reason no one around me carries Kona. This is a great option for both the top and back of a quilt for solids!! I will be keeping an eye on sales and clearances from now on!!

Cheers!
Rachel

I used a sheet as the backing on one of the first quilts I made years ago. It was machine pieced using scraps and machine quilted. The top and binding have shown signs of wear but the backing is still going strong. I think the sheet was probably a low thread count.

Some of my grandmother's quilts are still in use from years ago. Just good old utility quilts built out of love. Gram used different large pieces of dresses for the backing, so did two grand-aunties. It wasn't until I was in my mid 20's that I saw quilt backings that weren't pieced in different colors. I've used Walmart sheets for backings too on some of my quilt projects.

Thank you so much for all the comments. I might try it out on a small quilt to see if I like it. But with the comments on hand sewing, I will use the machine.

I have never used a sheet for a quilt back, but my old sheets end up as part of the bedskirt. The fitted ones work great, and the bedskirt stays in one place. Marylou

I agree. I also have made curtains, shower curtains, table cloths besides using them for the quilt back. I have always tied these quilts and never tried quilting them. Because there is a fitted and cases, when I give the quilt away I always give the bottom and cases so everything matches. (these quilts are for our grandchildren who graduate from high school and are to be used at college).

I've used sheets before. I hand quilt and I didn't have any trouble with them.