For years I had been told you never use sheets for backing a quilt. So I would struggle with piecing backing for large quilts. But I found this article by Cheryl at Meadow Mist Designs, and put that thought to rest.
Flat Sheets as Quilt Backings
And do you know how many full size flat sheets I have passed up that are ridiculously inexpensive? No one has full size beds anymore, but they are still available to purchase. Also I have vintage sheets that are soft from washing.
So are we going to give it a try? Would you use vintage sheets for backing?
11 comments:
Yes, I have used sheets. Quilt backing fabric is just too expensive!
My grandma used sheets all the time for backings, so I never thought twice about it. She did use the lower thread count ones and they held up well. I don't know that I would try a high thread count sheet for backing: it might be harder to see through.
Sandy
I began quilting in the days before quilt shops, before rotary cutters and long before access to what we now know as quilter's cotton. So, I must say I've had plenty of experience with using old sheets for backing and more. I think every quilter should try this at least once.
Girl, I have always done this! Vintage sheets are the best and I used to find them in thrift stores by the boatload, but then everybody got on the vintage sheet kick and they're now hard to find. But they make a quilt so soft and cuddly!
I would use a sheet for backing, provided it's 100% cotton. I have found that if I have to rip out stitches from a quilt that is backed with a sheet, the stitches sometimes show, but a good washing usually cures that problem. I have recently purchased sheets on sale for the express purpose of using them as quilt backs.
My mama always used sheets for backing. Her budget was limited so that was one reason she did.
I would if I ever made a big quilt. All of mine have been small.
I could have written Joy's comment myself. I have never thrown a sheet away. They can always be repurposed.
xx, Carol
Yes I would use them for backings, 100 % cotton. I have used them many times before.
Have fun!
I am from the school of no sheets for backing. Why use an unknown quality for the backing when you have put in so much time into the top. I understand 100% cotton but is the quality the same.
Absolutely I'd use all cotton sheets as backing. Didn't the "no sheets" edict by the quilt police start because hand quilting on high-count ones can be a bit harder to do? Though I can understand quilt shop owners continuing to spread the no-sheets rumor.
We still have full-size beds, but I prefer to use queen size top sheets and blankets. It seems like over the years, the full-size have gotten narrower and narrower and now only a few inches hang over on each side of the bed. Not enough!
I use sheets all the time. It's great because you can easily add matching/coordinating pillowcases etc. Never understood why people said you shouldn't.
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