Quilting is an extremely creative and fulfilling hobby. While a lot of attention goes into picking the right fabrics and design for the front of your quilt, choosing the right backing is just as important. After all, the backing provides the foundation for the quilt and ensures that it lasts for years to come. In this blog post, we will delve into everything you need to know about quilt backing by the yard.

Fabric Options

When you are shopping for quilt backing by the yard, you will want to consider the different fabric options that are available. The most popular fabrics for quilt backing are cotton and flannel. Cotton is a sturdy and breathable option that comes in a wide variety of prints and colors. Flannel, on the other hand, is a soft and cozy option that is perfect for winter quilts. When choosing a fabric, keep in mind the colors and patterns you want to use for your quilt top, as well as the overall theme of your quilt.

Size Considerations

When purchasing quilt backing by the yard, you will want to measure your quilt top to ensure that you are buying enough fabric. The size of your quilt and the width of the fabric you choose will determine how many yards you need to purchase. On average, most quilts require between 3 and 5 yards of fabric for backing. Always calculate your yardage based on the length and width of your quilt top plus a few extra inches for overhang and seam allowance.

Pattern Placement

Another important consideration when choosing quilt backing by the yard is pattern placement. Just like with the front of your quilt, you want to make sure that the pattern on the backing fabric is aligned properly. This includes ensuring that the pattern itself is straight, but also that any large motifs or designs are strategically placed to show up in the right places on the quilt. Take the time to carefully lay out your fabric and plan for any pattern placement before cutting or sewing.

Preparing the Fabric

Once you have chosen and purchased your quilt backing by the yard, it’s time to prepare the fabric for use. The first step is to pre-wash the fabric to remove any sizing or chemicals that may cause shrinkage or damage to your quilt. You should also iron out any wrinkles or creases in the fabric before laying it out to cut. Take care to cut your backing fabric straight and square to avoid any unevenness or puckering in the finished quilt.

Choosing a Quilting Method

Finally, you will want to consider your preferred quilting method when choosing quilt backing by the yard. If you plan to send your quilt off to a professional long-arm quilter, you may need to choose a wide backing fabric that can accommodate the size of your quilt. If you plan to quilt your own quilt on a domestic machine, you may prefer a narrower backing fabric that is easier to handle. Additionally, some quilters prefer to use a plain, solid-colored backing fabric to showcase their quilting design, while others prefer to use a printed fabric that complements the front of the quilt.

Conclusion:

Choosing quilt backing by the yard requires careful consideration of fabric options, size considerations, pattern placement, preparing the fabric, and choosing a quilting method. With these factors in mind, you can ensure that your quilt backing will provide the perfect foundation for your next quilting project. Happy quilting!