I have been quilting since 2002 and have used coordinating fabrics for the backs of my quilts. However, years earlier I had made several comforters (with really high-loft fiberfill ) and backed them with sheets. They seemed to work out fine. Then much later when I did REAL quilts the thought to use sheets never entered my mind. Just the other day for some reason this question came to my mind. So why not use sheets for quilt backs? Love to hear your opinions.

I have done it before... I actually think sometimes the quality is better depending on what you buy. Plus you can get them the size you want/need without having to piece it together. I have bought a couple sets at yards sales for just a couple dollars which equals very little money per yard. Can't beat it! Then I have the fabric from the fitted to use within the quilt and the backing to match!

I was told the higher density of the fabric makes if difficult to do the actual quilting, especially by hand. That said, I have used a sheet for backing. The less expensive sheets are not as dense.

Seems to me that in the deep, dark recesses of my mind I recall hearing something of the sort now that you mention it! I don't do handquilting so it wouldn't matter to me!

ok so I replied to your comment on the first one. Go figure!
Like I said think I heard something like that long, long ago! and as I don't handquilt it shouldn't matter!

I have used sheets for backing. I don't like a seam on the back. I don't hand quilt and it works fine for me.

Sheets aren't necessarily all cotton, usually some poly so the shrinkage as a back would be different from front if front is all cotton. I have quilted customer quilts where the back is a sheet and they look good and is the customer's choice. I think the difference in shrinkage and the greater difficulty in hand quilting are the two greatest drawbacks. Still a lot of people use sheets and are happy so I would say it is up to each individual.

I love how the feel of nice sheets feel on the back of my quilts. You can get some really nice ones from costco and snuggly they are!!

I use sheets sometimes too.

i wouldn't think shrinkage would be much of a problem if you prewash you fabrics and the sheet. my mom told me they used to use sheets to make blankets when they were little.