How To Put The Back On A Quilt

Introduction

How To Put The Back On A Quilt: The back of a quilt serves as the foundation, providing support and stability to the entire piece. It also acts as a canvas for showcasing your craftsmanship and design choices. Whether you’ve crafted a masterpiece for your bed or a cherished gift for a loved one, the way you put the back on your quilt can make a significant difference in the final product.

We will walk you through the step-by-step process of preparing and attaching the back fabric to your quilt. From choosing the right backing material to basting and quilting the layers together, we’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and successful quilt finish.

Throughout this journey, you’ll discover various techniques, tips, and tricks to create a beautifully finished quilt back that complements the quilt top. We’ll address common challenges and provide solutions to achieve a polished result.

As you embark on this final stage of your quilting adventure, embrace the satisfaction of seeing your hard work come together to form a stunning and functional quilt that will bring warmth, comfort, and joy for years to come.

What is the backing of a quilt called?

Backing, or Quilt Backing, is the bottom layer of the quilt sandwich, which is the quilt top, batting and backing. It can be made from one piece of fabric, or pieced together from many fabrics. Generally made from cotton fabric, it can also be made of other substrates such as flannel, lawn or fleece.

The backing of a quilt is simply called “quilt backing.” It is the bottom layer of the quilt sandwich, which consists of three layers: the quilt top, batting (or wadding), and the quilt backing. The quilt backing is the foundation of the quilt, providing support and stability to the entire piece.

Quilt backing fabric is typically a single large piece of fabric that spans the entire size of the quilt. It serves as the canvas on which the quilt top and batting are secured. The backing fabric plays a crucial role in holding all the quilt layers together and ensuring they stay in place during the quilting process.

When selecting quilt backing fabric, quilters often choose a fabric that complements the design and colors of the quilt top. The backing fabric can be a solid color, a subtle print, or even a complementary pattern that enhances the overall aesthetic of the quilt.

The size of the quilt backing should be larger than the quilt top to allow for seam allowances and to ensure that the entire quilt top is covered without any gaps. It is essential to square up and straighten the backing fabric before attaching it to the quilt top to avoid any wrinkles or distortions during the quilting process.

How do you put a label on the back of a quilt?

A common place for many quilters is on one of the bottom corners of the back of the quilt. Sew it firmly to the backing fabric before you actually assemble the quilt, then you can hand or machine quilt right through the label.

Putting a label on the back of a quilt is an essential step in quilt-making, as it adds a personal touch and provides valuable information about the quilt’s creator and its significance. A label serves as a lasting record of the quilt’s history and is often appreciated by future generations or anyone who receives the quilt as a gift. Here’s how you can put a label on the back of a quilt:

Prepare the Label: Create a fabric label using a piece of fabric or muslin. You can write or print the information on the label using fabric markers, permanent pens, or even embroider the details. Include your name, date of completion, the quilt’s name (if applicable), and any other meaningful details or dedications.

Placement: Decide where to place the label on the back of the quilt. The bottom right or left corner is a common location, but you can choose any spot that suits your design.

Attach the Label: Fold under the raw edges of the label to create a clean finish. Hand-stitch or use a sewing machine to secure the label to the back of the quilt. Be sure to use small, discreet stitches that won’t show through to the front of the quilt.

Use a Labeling Pen: Alternatively, you can use a labeling pen or permanent fabric marker to write directly on the quilt backing. Be cautious with this method, as it may not be as durable as a fabric label and can fade over time.

What is the cheapest way to back a quilt?

Use cotton sheets on sale for backing.

Or scour down the local op-shop for well-used quality cotton sheets. Quilt Backing can be quite expensive as we need yards and yards of fabric for it. Using sheets can really cut the cost plus, you probably won’t have to piece it together to make it big enough for the quilt top!

The cheapest way to back a quilt is to use a single large piece of muslin or inexpensive plain cotton fabric as the backing material. Muslin is a budget-friendly option widely available at fabric stores and is commonly used for quilt backings due to its affordability and versatility. Plain cotton fabrics in solid colors or simple prints are also economical choices for quilt backing.

Using a single large piece of fabric for the quilt backing is cost-effective because it minimizes the need for multiple fabric cuts and reduces the overall fabric cost. Look for sales, discounts, or clearance sections at fabric stores to find budget-friendly options for quilt backing fabric.

Another cost-saving technique is to repurpose old bed sheets or used fabrics as quilt backing. Thrift stores, garage sales, or your own linen closet may yield suitable fabrics that can be washed and repurposed for quilt backing. This approach not only reduces costs but also promotes sustainability by reusing materials.

If you have leftover fabrics from previous projects, consider piecing them together to create a scrappy quilt backing. Scrappy backings add charm and uniqueness to the quilt, and they are an excellent way to use up fabric scraps, making them a cost-effective and eco-friendly option.

What size backing for quilts?

The general rule of thumb is to add 4” to each side (add 8” if you are sending to a long arm quilter). For example: Your quilt top is 99” wide and 106” long. You need a quilt back that is at least 103”x 110” (just add 4” to each side).

The size of the backing for quilts depends on the dimensions of the quilt top and the desired amount of overhang. Quilt backing fabric is typically a single large piece that covers the entire back of the quilt and is essential for providing support and stability to the quilt sandwich.

To determine the size of the quilt backing, first, measure the dimensions of the quilt top. Add a few inches of overhang on all sides to ensure the quilt top is fully covered, and there are no gaps in the backing. A common overhang size is around 3 to 4 inches on each side, but it can be adjusted based on personal preference and quilt design.

For example, if the quilt top measures 60 x 80 inches, adding 4 inches of overhang on all sides would require a backing fabric that measures at least 68 x 88 inches. This extra fabric provides space for quilting, basting, and trimming after the quilting process is complete.

When purchasing quilt backing fabric, it is often available in standard widths of 42 to 108 inches, with wider options commonly used for queen and king-size quilts. If the quilt is larger than the standard width, it may be necessary to piece the backing together using multiple fabric cuts.

What is the purpose of putting the back on a quilt, and why is it an essential step in the quilting process?

The purpose of putting the back on a quilt is to create a three-layered quilt sandwich that provides stability, support, and cohesion to the entire quilt. The three layers of a quilt sandwich consist of the quilt top, batting (or wadding), and the quilt backing. The quilt backing serves as the foundation for the quilt, and it is the layer that is visible on the back side of the finished quilt.

The quilt backing is an essential step in the quilting process for several reasons:

Stability: The quilt backing provides stability to the quilt top and batting, preventing them from shifting or bunching during the quilting process and throughout the life of the quilt.

Support: The quilt backing supports the weight of the quilt top and batting, ensuring that the layers stay flat and evenly distributed.

Durability: By securing the quilt top and batting between the quilt backing and using quilting stitches, the quilt becomes more durable and able to withstand regular use and washing.

Aesthetics: The choice of quilt backing fabric can enhance the overall aesthetics of the quilt, complementing the design and colors of the quilt top.

Completeness: Without the quilt backing, the quilt would be incomplete, and the raw edges of the quilt top and batting would be exposed.

Quilting Medium: The quilt backing is the canvas on which the quilting stitches are visible, adding texture and design elements to the quilt.

Overall, putting the back on a quilt is a crucial step that completes the quilting process, transforming individual fabric pieces into a functional and visually appealing masterpiece that will be cherished for generations. It ensures the quilt’s stability, durability, and overall cohesiveness, making it a key aspect of successful quilting.

What are the different options for quilt backing fabric, and how do you choose the right fabric for your quilt?

When choosing quilt backing fabric, several options are available to quilters, each with its own unique characteristics and considerations. Here are some common options for quilt backing fabric:

Solid Cotton Fabric: Solid cotton fabric is a popular and versatile choice for quilt backing. It comes in a wide range of colors and is readily available in fabric stores. Solid fabric allows the quilt top’s design and quilting stitches to stand out, making it an excellent option for showcasing intricate quilting patterns.

Printed Cotton Fabric: Printed cotton fabrics feature various patterns and designs, from subtle motifs to bold prints. Quilters can choose prints that complement the quilt top’s theme and colors, adding visual interest to the quilt backing.

Muslin: Muslin is a lightweight, plain-woven cotton fabric commonly used for quilt backing. It is an economical choice and provides a clean and neutral background for the quilt top.

Wide Backing Fabric: Wide backing fabric is specifically manufactured for quilt backing and comes in wider widths (usually 108 inches). It eliminates the need to piece together multiple fabric cuts for larger quilts, making it a convenient option.

Flannel: Flannel fabric is soft and cozy, making it an excellent choice for quilt backings, especially for quilts intended for colder climates or winter use.

Batik Fabric: Batik fabrics feature unique and vibrant designs created using a wax-resist dyeing technique. They add a rich and artistic element to the quilt backing.

What is the ideal size for the quilt backing, and how do you calculate the dimensions to ensure proper coverage and overhang?

The ideal size for the quilt backing is determined by the dimensions of the quilt top and the desired amount of overhang on all sides. The quilt backing should be larger than the quilt top to provide adequate coverage and ensure there are no gaps in the backing once the quilt is assembled. Here’s how you can calculate the dimensions for the quilt backing:

Measure the Quilt Top: Measure the length and width of the completed quilt top. Make sure to include any borders or additional pieced elements in your measurements.

Add Overhang: Decide on the amount of overhang you want on all sides of the quilt. A common overhang size is around 3 to 4 inches, but this can vary based on personal preference and the size of the quilt.

Calculate the Backing Dimensions: Add the overhang to both the length and width measurements of the quilt top. For example, if your quilt top measures 60 inches by 80 inches and you want a 4-inch overhang, the backing dimensions would be 68 inches by 88 inches.

Account for Seam Allowances: If you need to piece together multiple fabric cuts to achieve the desired backing size, remember to include seam allowances for sewing the pieces together. Typically, a 1/2-inch seam allowance is added to each seam.

Preparing the Backing: After calculating the dimensions, cut the backing fabric to the appropriate size, ensuring it is squared up and straight along the edges.

Having the correct size of quilt backing is crucial to achieving a well-proportioned quilt and ensuring that all layers are adequately covered during the quilting process. The extra overhang allows room for basting, quilting, and trimming after the quilting is complete, resulting in a professional and polished finish for your quilt. By taking the time to accurately calculate the backing dimensions, you can ensure proper coverage, stability, and a visually appealing quilt that will be cherished for years to come.

What techniques can be used to secure the quilt backing to the quilt top, and what are the best practices for achieving a smooth and wrinkle-free finish?

Securing the quilt backing to the quilt top involves several techniques to ensure a smooth and wrinkle-free finish. The main methods for attaching the quilt backing to the quilt top are pin basting and spray basting:

Pin Basting: Pin basting involves using safety pins to secure the three layers of the quilt sandwich together. Lay the backing fabric flat on a clean, smooth surface (right side down), and smooth out any wrinkles or folds. Place the batting on top of the backing, followed by the quilt top (right side up). Starting from the center and working outward, insert safety pins through all three layers, spacing them about 4 to 6 inches apart. Pin basting ensures even distribution of the layers, preventing shifting during quilting.

Spray Basting: Spray basting involves using temporary adhesive spray to bond the layers together. Lay the backing fabric on a protected surface, spray an even layer of basting spray, and carefully place the batting on top. Smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles. Repeat the process by spraying the batting and adding the quilt top on top. Smooth the layers from the center outward to avoid wrinkles. Spray basting is a faster method than pin basting and allows for easy repositioning if needed.

Best practices for achieving a smooth and wrinkle-free finish when securing the quilt backing include:

Ensure the backing fabric and batting are both smooth and flat before layering them with the quilt top.Avoid stretching the layers while basting to prevent distortions.Start basting from the center and work your way outward to minimize wrinkles.Smooth out any wrinkles or folds as you baste, adjusting the layers as needed.

Check for any tucks or puckers before proceeding with quilting.

Use safety pins or spray adhesive sparingly but evenly to avoid excessive adhesion or uneven quilting.By employing these techniques and best practices, you can achieve a securely basted quilt sandwich with a smooth and wrinkle-free finish, setting the stage for successful quilting and a beautifully crafted quilt.

Conclusion

The quilt backing plays a crucial role in providing stability and support to the quilt top and batting. It ensures that all layers stay in place during the quilting process and throughout the life of the quilt, creating a durable and long-lasting masterpiece.

Throughout this journey, you’ve explored various options for quilt backing fabric, from solid cotton to printed designs, and learned how to choose the fabric that best complements your quilt top’s aesthetics. By calculating the dimensions for proper coverage and incorporating a few inches of overhang, you’ve ensured a polished and professional finish.

By employing the basting techniques, either through pin basting or spray basting, you’ve secured the layers of the quilt sandwich, preventing wrinkles or shifting during quilting. Your quilt is now ready for the final step – quilting itself – where you can unleash your creativity and skill to add texture and design to the quilt.

As you put the back on your quilt, remember that quilting is a labor of love, and each stitch carries a piece of your heart. Enjoy the journey, and relish the satisfaction of creating a unique and cherished quilt that will bring warmth and comfort to its recipients for years to come. Your finished quilt is a testament to your creativity, patience, and dedication, making it a true work of art that will be treasured for generations.