Need help with size backing for dresden

[grannyann]

I need some ideas on how big to cut my fabric.My dresden piece measures 17 1/2 TO 18"circle depending where I measure it.
So lets say 18" , now should I cut my square 20" leaving 2" on all sides or cut a 22 " square and center it then I will put the binding on. Also some one said I could cut the material from the back of the dresden foundation for less bulk but this is my first attempt and I don't want to mess it up.I just spent $10.00 on the material for the backing.Here is a picture of the fabric my local quilt shop helped me pick out.She said I should use black thread when stitching down the points and sitching them scares me to death. Thanks for any and all help. I am beginning to get a bit panicky here.

[K. McEuen]

Either 20 or 22 would work. Since it's a single dresden and I am guessing a table topper, the background size depends on how big you want it. If you cut it bigger you can always trim it down in case you don't quite get it centered.

Don't let it scare you. Dresdens are pretty easy to put together. I never bothered trimming out my fabric from the back. Just remember to use a lo of pins to hold it in place while sewing it together. You can also use spray basting if you prefer that.

[grannyann]

Thats is great advice. Thank you so much . I am going to cut it 22 just to be safe.Thanks again.

[bkthomas]

That fabric is pretty! When I clicked on it, I noticed the gold.
Are you going to sew by hand or machine? If you do it by machine I think a metallic gold would be awesome!

[grannyann]

You are right gold metallic would look great. I never used it on my sewing machine but have on my embroidery machine and I know it is not easy to work with. Would you have to use it in the bobbin also?I know I don't have much of it. And I was wondering how it would hold up in wear and tears as a table topper.

[bkthomas]

Hmmm...I don't know - I wonder if just regular gold thread would look good - or red?
Show us when you are done.....maybe someone else who does embroidery work will chime in on the subject!