Jo Anne B.

My next quilt project (after the Holidays) will be my first experience working with Batiks.
This quilt is to be for a 15 yr.old and her full size bed.
Thinking of using a flannel sheet for backing. Do batiks and flannels work well together?
Will the flannel/batik combo cooperate for the LA?
I much prefer to use the flannel sheet, stays on the bed better and they are on sale at great prices.
If there is any other tips for working with batiks. please feel free to share!
TIA
Jo Anne

Sewnoma

I've heard that some longarmers don't like doing batiks, but I don't think that's an "everybody" thing.

I've put flannel backs on quilts that had batiks in the top. I'm not sure if I've ever done a 100% batik top as I treat them like any other cotton and mix it up, but I don't see why you couldn't!

PaperPrincess

You shouldn't have a problem, but make sure you wash & dry the flannel a couple times as it has a tendancy to shrink more than other cottons.

Jo Anne B.

Thank you both! Sounds good to me.

ckcowl

I love batiks and have been creating quilts with them for 15+ years, no problems with my long arm either. I also love flannel and use it a lot. I use it to back quilts, use it for Piecing tops, ( yes even batiks and flannels in the same quilt top) I’m pretty fearless when it comes to mixing fabrics. I’ve never used a flannel sheet so don’t have any idea if that makes a difference. I use good, double sided ( meaty) flannels most often, like Moda Woolies and Benartex flannels. I also purchase 108” wide flannels for backings from fabric.com- that is probably a lot like a sheet. Just prewash the flannel.

Jo Anne B.

I am thinking the quilt will be well used for 2-3 yrs before she leaves for college and maybe not so well taken care of which is fine... helps factoring in making this on the economical side. The flannel sheet is kind of a Plan B as the original backing is now slated to be backing for another project. I did google reviews on the name brand flannel sheets and most were favorable. Too I can gift her the fitted bedsheet and pillowcases. So hopefully it's a win all the way around.
The batiks I was able to purchase for a deal and a steal from the local quilt guild fundraiser. I do try to be as economical as best I can be.
Yes! I do love the Moda Woolies!! And definitely will keep Fabric.com for future flannel needs. I have another quilting friend who strictly uses for flannel for backings whose wonderful quilts were my motivation.
I will be sure to wash multiple times and if it is not going to work I will go to Plan C. Keeping my fingers crossed...

newbee3

baticks are tight weave so with flannel I think it would be fine. I have had problems with batik on front and back

Jo Anne B.

Newbee3, I'll remember that tidbit! TY!