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Using sheets for backing

Using sheets for backing

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Old 07-06-2010, 05:52 AM
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I've been reading where some of you find sheets at garage sales, and places such as this. I know from reading that you cut the header off(top portion) of the sheet I am assuming. Cutting this off, does it still leave a big enough piece for the backing? Can someone explain how this is done? I am fairly new, and looking to maybe being able to put a one piece backing. Thank you all
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Old 07-06-2010, 05:54 AM
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I've purchased 100% cotton sheets (thinking to use them for donation quilts) but haven't used them yet.

If the sheet is not big enough for your quilt - piece it with something else...say leftovers from the front fabric.

Good luck
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Old 07-06-2010, 06:23 AM
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I have done it with no problems on a throw and full size quilt. It depends on the sheet & the shrinkage factor of the materials used in the top. A used sheet isn't going to shrink at all so if your top wasn't made with pre-washed fabrics, it might get a little wonky on you after the first wash.

You actually want the cheaper, thinner sheets. The nice hotel quality will be a bugger to quilt through. It would probably work fine for machine quilting with a bigger needle just like batiks, though.

Flat sheets are about the right size to use for backing if you are making a standard size quilt since sheets have the drop and tuck built into them. If your quilt is larger than standard, just use the next size larger sheet.
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Old 07-06-2010, 06:28 AM
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Fantastic idea! You just solved one of my problems. Thank you so much!
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Old 07-06-2010, 06:28 AM
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oh my goodness....I CAN JUST SEE THE QUILT POLICE COMMISSIONER QUAKING IN HER SHOES...A SHEET FOR A QUILT BACK ???
sorry, had to put that in so many people get REALLY UPSET when ever this comes up. my philosophy? use what you want to ...just get a sheet that's larger than your quilt top. do remember, poly/cotton blends are harder to quilt (by hand next to impossible) but it can certainly be done --use a sharp needle---they wear like iron and will last a long time.
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Old 07-06-2010, 07:06 AM
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I agree, the back NEEDS to be larger than the front, after all what is a sheet except a big, perfectly flat, smooth piece of fabric?
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Old 07-06-2010, 07:11 AM
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I use them for my doggie quilts, tried hand quilting one years ago( that was a mistake!)
And I also use them on picnic and kids playmat quilts
they wash up well and last forever!
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Old 07-06-2010, 07:13 AM
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Send the quilting police back where they came from. We don't allow them here. :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: I agree with you, go ahead and use the sheets. But remember, the most important thing is enjoy what you are doing.
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Old 07-06-2010, 07:48 AM
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Originally Posted by mlaceruby
I use them for my doggie quilts, tried hand quilting one years ago( that was a mistake!)
And I also use them on picnic and kids playmat quilts
they wash up well and last forever!
May I ask why you had a hard time with tying them?
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Old 07-06-2010, 07:54 AM
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The way I understand it, the sheets have a tighter weave and it is hard to get the needle through it. This makes it difficult to hand quilt.
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