I'm getting ready to sandwich a quilt using a flannel backing, for machine quilting (SITD and FMQ). I've used flannel before with good success.

Recently, I've read some posts suggesting to starch the backing fabric before machine quilting. I've not done this with ANY backing before, but it does make sense that it would help keep the backing from puckering, etc. But I was wondering if anyone has done it with flannel... does it work? I've never tried to starch flannel; seems like you wouldn't want to do it, as you want flannel to be soft and cushy. But I guess the starch would come out in the wash.

Yes, I have starched flannel backing. I like to have all my fabrics crisp for the quilting part. It washes out.

thank you for the info!

I would starch the flannel backing. Keeps it from distorting while you machine quilt, eliminating puckers. The starch comes out in the wash.

Heavier starching is better than light starching. For a backing, I mix Sta-Flo and water, "paint" it on the fabric to saturation, toss in dryer, and iron with steam. This is much easier than spray starching and provides a heavier starch that keeps the fabric from moving while machine quilting.

This really sounds like THE way to go!

Thanks all. I will give it a try.

starching flannel makes it easier to cut- lots less chance of stretching out of shape- or bad cuts=
i've not starched my flannel backs- only because i am too lazy probably- never thought about it i don't press backing fabrics unless they are really wrinkled-and just will not smooth out.
if you want to it's fine to do so-
and yes- it does wash out when you wash your finished quilt

Yes, I would.