How to Use Sheets for Quilt Backing

Quilting is a crafting tradition that has been around for many generations. Sewn with hours of labor and love, a quilt is a great way to preserve memories, touch a heart, and recycle old clothes. Using a sheet for a quilt backing is another great way to be resourceful. While just about any sheet can be used, there are some helpful hints you will want to consider before you use a sheet for your next quilt.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Quilt top
• Tape measure
• Sheet
• Sewing supplies

1. Measure the quilt top. Since some quilts are not perfectly even, measure the quilt's top, middle and bottom. Use the larger measurement as your guide to finding a sheet large enough to cover the whole area. You may want to trim or square off the quilt top so that it is even.

2. Consider the material from which a sheet is made, before purchasing. Sheets with lower thread count tend to pill, or ball more than sheets with a higher thread count. A cotton/polyester blend is best.

3. Prewash the sheet only if the quilt fabric has been prewashed. If the quilt fabric has not been washed before, then do not wash the sheet. The goal is to have uniform shrinkage of both the quilt's top and the backing.

4. Iron the sheet, making it as smooth as possible before attaching it to the quilt.

5. Layer the quilt together in this order: Lay the sheet down first, then the batting, then the quilt with the good side facing up.

6. Attach and sew the layers together using your preferred quilting method.

Tips & Warnings

• Egyptian cotton is a quality fabric with a very high thread count. However, it is expensive. By undoing the large hem of a sheet, you will gain an extra 4 to 5 inches in length, which may allow you to ultimately buy a smaller sheet, saving you money.

References

• Sheets for purchase from JC Penney
• Sheets for purchase by size and color