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Is there really any reason why you shouldn't use a sheet for back I have quilts that the tops are worn out but the sheets are still good
I buy the ones with the most thread count?

I too use sheets for seamless quilt backs. The less thread count the closer the sheet is to quilt fabric. I buy the least expensive ones I have seen $5.00/ twin flat sheet.
I would be wary of used sheets that are already thinner in the center than the edges.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Rho*,

I use sheets for backing on a lot of quilts. I buy the 200 thread count sheets at Wal-Mart. So far, I have not had any problems with any of them.

I started buying high thread count sheets to sleep under when they became so popular. BUT I've had several tear because they are more fragile. 200 thread count sheets are actually higher than most of our quilting fabrics. You can buy some Moda solids but it's hard to find. If you hand quilt you might want to avoid sheets. My grandmother really suffered when she used sheets even if they'd been washed many times. If you're using old sheets I'd check carefully for worn areas...especially around the toe nail area.

quote:

If you hand quilt you might want to avoid sheets.

That is absolutely right! It's very hard to quilt through a sheet but I don't think it is a problem for machine quilting.

Although it's a little expensive I prefer to buy the extra wide fabric for backs of large quilts. About all that I could find when I first started quilting was muslin but there are such pretty colors and designs available now.

I find sheets are perfect for machine quilting and they can be found in sooo many colors and patterns....Stick to the 200 thread count..

If your quilt top is 100% cotton, I would make sure the sheet is also. I prefer 100% cotton top, batting and backing. I get too hot under any polyester. I even had to put a 100% cotton pad over my mattress. Another thing to think about is, you do not have to have a solid piece of backing for the back!!! Use up your fabric stashes that will compliment the front. I really like being able to reverse my quilts...

ty gals for the hints and most of mine i make are machine quilted. In pa right now the more heat the better lol.
Edna

I hand quilt and use sheets for queen and larger quilts. I usually use 200-300 count.

I use the worn out ones for things like string quilts, backing for crumb blocks and piecing that doesn't really need the strength of good fabric but when I need a solid piece to hold all my littler pieces until I stitch them together.