Quilt Backing Tips and Tricks
Welcome to the cozy world of quilting, where every stitch counts and every choice matters! Let’s dive into the fun side of choosing the perfect backing fabric. Whether you're going for snuggly softness or budget-friendly basics, we've got the tips and tricks to help take that next step in finishing your quilt!
Size Matters
For the best results, your backing fabric should extend about 4” to 6” beyond all four sides of your quilt top. This extra margin ensures full coverage and helps accommodate any shifting that might occur during quilting.
Choosing the Right Fabric
1. Cotton: Cotton is a popular choice for quilt backs, especially if your quilt top is also made of cotton. It maintains consistency in feel and durability, making your quilt easier to care for and longer-lasting.
2. Minky: For a super soft and cuddly quilt, consider using Minky. Made from 100% polyester, Minky is especially loved for baby and child quilts. It adds a plush, cozy layer to your quilt.
3. Flannel: Flannel is another great choice for softness and warmth. Opt for 100% cotton flannel and always pre-wash it, as flannel shrinks significantly more than quilting cotton. This precaution prevents any unpleasant surprises later.
4. Muslin: Muslin is a cost-effective option for quilt backing. However, its look and feel are not always preferred, so it's less commonly used. If you choose muslin, make sure it's high-quality to ensure a good result.
Backing Size Chart
Here's a quick reference for backing yardage based on quilt size:
| Quilt Size | Backing Size | Yardage* |
|---|---|---|
| Baby 30" x 40" | 38" x 48" | 1-3/8 yds |
| Crib 36" x 52" | 44" x 60" | 2-1/2 yds |
| Throw 50" x 65" | 58" x 73" | 3-1/4 yds |
| Twin 70" x 90" | 78" x 98" | 5-1/2 yds |
| Full 85" x 108" | 93" x 116" | 7-3/4 yds |
| Queen 90" x 108" | 98" x 116" | 8-1/6 yds |
| King 110" x 108" | 118” x 116” | 9-2/3 yds |
*Based on a 42” wide bolt of fabric.
Prewashing
Prewashing your backing fabric is a personal choice, with one exception: flannel should always be pre-washed. If you pre-wash your quilt top, it’s wise to pre-wash the backing fabric too. This helps to avoid any discrepancies in fabric shrinkage.
Piecing the Back
At times you’ll need to piece your backing fabrics together to make it wide/long enough to extend beyond all four edges of your quilt top. With the right sides together, sew your cuts of fabric together along the selvage edge of the fabric. This ensures that the fabric will not fray. Use a 1/2" seam allowance.
Press seams open.
If you trim the back of your fabric, keep in mind the direction of the pattern and where you would like the seam to fall.
EXAMPLE: Your quilt top measures 50” x 65”, so you get 3-1/4 yds of backing. You’ll cut your backing fabric into (2) pieces, each measuring 1-5/8 yd (58-1/2“). Open up both pieces so they measure 42” x 58-1/2”. With right sides together, sew the two pieces along the 58-1/2” selvage edges.
Choosing a Pattern
When selecting a backing fabric, consider how the pattern will affect the visibility of your quilting. A busy, colorful fabric might blend in with the quilting, while a solid or low-volume backing can make your quilting stand out. Remember, a darker backing might cast a shadow on the quilt top, and extreme contrast can show through depending on the batting.
With these tips and tricks, you're well on your way to creating a beautifully backed quilt that complements and enhances your quilt top. Happy quilting!