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September 2nd, 2015, 04:38 PM
#1
Member
UN-Biased
Using sheets as backing for quilts
I know that some of you have mentioned using sheets for your backing. Can you tell me what thread count I should look for? I have some tops put together for charity quilts and hate to pay too much for yardage. They are actually more like large lap quilts as I don't think any of them are twin size.
Thanks for your advice.
Linda
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September 2nd, 2015, 04:49 PM
#2
Senior Member
Missouri Star
Re: Using sheets as backing for quilts
I can't tell you thread count, but I know my mother-in-law 's church quilt group uses whatever sheets they are given as a donation. I know that sometimes my sister-in-law will stop in Goodwill to pick some up.
Just a general FYI because I'm weird that way.
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September 2nd, 2015, 05:16 PM
#3
Junior Member
Beginning Stitcher
Re: Using sheets as backing for quilts
I just read about this very topic and found it interesting. Here is a link you may find helpful. Quilting on A Dime: Backing a Quilt for Less Than $10 | A Crafty Fox |
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September 2nd, 2015, 05:17 PM
#4
Senior Member
Missouri Star
Re: Using sheets as backing for quilts
I'd just try to make sure they were 100% cotton - the poly in some of them will tend to pill up and that's unsightly as well as uncomfortable.
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September 2nd, 2015, 05:32 PM
#5
Senior Member
Missouri Star
Re: Using sheets as backing for quilts
I use sheets sometimes. They are always used. I buy them at thrift stores and the Goodwill. I don't know a thread count...but you can tell by feel if they are a good quality sheet.
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September 2nd, 2015, 06:05 PM
#6
Senior Member
Missouri Star
Re: Using sheets as backing for quilts
Thrift stores and good will is my recommendation IMO. MAHALO

Hawaiigrammi
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September 2nd, 2015, 07:54 PM
#7
Junior Member
Beginning Stitcher
Re: Using sheets as backing for quilts
I only used a sheet for a backing once, and I used a flannel sheet. I already used the fitted sheet, knew it would pill. My son wanted flannel on the back of his quilt, to be soft and cuddly. But normally I go and get the extra wide backing fabric, it's pricey, but worth it. I like to see something nice on the back, instead of plain muslin or something.
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September 2nd, 2015, 07:57 PM
#8
Senior Member
Missouri Star
Re: Using sheets as backing for quilts
I use cotton or flannel sheets on some of the backs of my quilts. They work great, and either get them at resale shops, or season end sales at the big box stores. Not sure of the thread count, you can pretty much tell by the feel, Cotton feels cool immediately to the touch, whereas flannel is instantly warm. Otherwise, I use the wide backing. Just depends on your choice at the time.
We are cups
constantly and quietly being filled.
The trick is.....Knowing how to tip ourselves over and let the beautiful stuff out!
- Ray Bradbury
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September 3rd, 2015, 12:10 AM
#9
Senior Member
Missouri Star
Re: Using sheets as backing for quilts
Sandy Navas is correct...make sure the sheets are 100 percent cotton. And remember...especially if you're hand quilting. The higher the thread count, the harder for the needle to push through. I have used flat sheets from Wal-mart, yard sales, thrift stores...I haven't had a bit of trouble.....
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September 3rd, 2015, 12:46 AM
#10
Senior Member
Applique Angel
Re: Using sheets as backing for quilts
Try to go for 200 count all cotton.
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