my thoughts exactly. I've bought many backs from ebay, and I just reworked a quilt a couple of times (design stage) just so it'd be narrow enough for one peice of fabric.

I buy mine at Hancock's when they have them on sale.

Joanne's has them as well as Hobby Lobby if you have one of them or Hancock's, also you can order from Hancock's of Paducah, they have all kinds and colors.

I too usually piece my backings using leftover blocks and fabrics from the quilt but it is definitely easier to use one piece.

Our local Wal Mart still carries some fabric including wide width muslin. I like the muslin for hand quilting. Don't care to use the printed fabrics on the back as it hides the hand quilting. If I'm going to spend the time hand quilting I want it to show up. I think the back should look as nice as the front.

I'm also new to quilting. What is the advantage of using muslin for the backing vs. 100% cotton?

Hi and welcome from the sunny state of Florida!!
I usually buy mine from Jo-Ann's with a coupon for 50% off or order online.

Marshall Dry Goods
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www.backsidefabrics.com is an internet store that only carries wide backing. Prices are reasonable. I have used it once and the fabric I received was good quality and came quickly.

We've used sheets for backing, depends on the size but a king size flat sheet is fairly large. They are very sturdy and launder well.

I have used sheets, which can be very good, sturdy and reasonably priced. I also get wide materials at Hancock, JoAnns and my LQS. Moda makes some really beautiful wide fabrics. I agree with above, that sheets must be laundered or they are hard to quilt through due to the sizing, I guess.