Quilting is a rewarding and creative hobby, but one of the most common questions that both beginners and seasoned quilters face is, “How much quilt backing do I need?” Choosing the right amount of fabric for the quilt backing is essential for ensuring your project turns out perfectly.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about quilt backing—how to calculate it, different fabric types, tips for piecing backing, and common mistakes to avoid.
Table of Contents
What Is Quilt Backing?
Quilt backing is the fabric that forms the back layer of your quilt. It complements the quilt top and batting, providing the final, completed appearance of your quilt. The backing is usually chosen to match or contrast with the quilt top, depending on your design preferences.
While the quilt top is often the star of the show with its intricate piecing and patterns, the backing also plays a vital role in both aesthetics and durability. It provides structure and can even enhance the visual appeal of the quilt, especially when different fabrics and patterns are carefully chosen.
How to Calculate Quilt Backing
Step 1: Measure Your Quilt Top
To begin calculating how much fabric you’ll need for the quilt backing, the first step is to measure the dimensions of your quilt top. You will need to measure both the width and length of the quilt.
For example, if your quilt top measures 60 inches wide and 80 inches long, these are the numbers you’ll use to determine how much backing you’ll need.
Step 2: Add Extra Fabric for Quilting
Once you know the dimensions of your quilt top, it’s important to add extra fabric around all sides to allow for the quilting process. This extra fabric provides room for the quilting machine to move and helps ensure that the backing covers the entire quilt without any gaps.
Most quilters recommend adding at least 4 inches to each side, which translates to 8 inches in width and 8 inches in length. If your quilt top is 60 inches by 80 inches, your quilt backing should measure 68 inches by 88 inches.
Step 3: Calculate the Yardage
Now that you have the final dimensions of your quilt backing, it’s time to calculate how much fabric you’ll need. Quilt fabric typically comes in standard widths, with the most common being:
- 44-45 inches wide (for regular quilt fabric)
- 108 inches wide (for wide backing fabric)
For Regular Width Fabric (44-45 inches)
If your quilt is wider than the fabric width (44-45 inches), you’ll need to piece the backing together by sewing two or more panels of fabric. Here’s how to calculate it:
- Determine the Number of Panels: Divide the width of your quilt by the width of the fabric. For example, if your quilt is 68 inches wide and your fabric is 44 inches wide, divide 68 by 44, which equals approximately 1.55. Round this number up to 2. This means you’ll need two panels of fabric.
- Determine the Length of Each Panel: Once you know how many panels you need, you can calculate the length of each panel. In this case, your quilt’s length is 88 inches, so each panel must be 88 inches long.
- Convert to Yards: Convert the length of the panels to yards. There are 36 inches in a yard, so divide 88 inches by 36, which equals approximately 2.44 yards. This means you’ll need 2.44 yards for each panel.
- Total Yardage: Multiply the yardage per panel by the number of panels. In this case, 2.44 yards multiplied by 2 panels equals 4.88 yards. Round this up to 5 yards to ensure you have enough fabric.
For Wide Backing Fabric (108 inches)
If you choose wide backing fabric (typically 108 inches), you likely won’t need to piece panels together. Simply use the length of the quilt plus the extra fabric added for quilting.
For a quilt that’s 88 inches long, divide this by 36 to get the yardage. In this case, 88 inches divided by 36 equals approximately 2.44 yards. You’ll need 2.5 yards of wide backing fabric.
Types of Quilt Backing Fabrics
The type of fabric you choose for your quilt backing can significantly impact the quilt’s final appearance and feel. Below are some common types of fabrics used for backing:
1. Cotton Fabric
Cotton is the most common choice for quilt backing. It’s versatile, durable, and easy to work with. Most quilt fabric is made from cotton, making it a natural choice for both the top and backing. Cotton fabric is available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and widths.
2. Flannel
Flannel is a soft, cozy fabric that’s perfect for quilts designed for warmth and comfort. It’s slightly heavier than cotton and gives the quilt a plush feel. However, it can shrink more than cotton, so it’s essential to prewash the fabric before use.
3. Minky Fabric
Minky (or plush) fabric is a popular choice for quilt backing, especially for baby quilts or quilts meant to be extra soft. Minky is a synthetic fabric with a velvety texture, offering luxurious comfort. However, it can be challenging to work with due to its tendency to stretch and shift during sewing.
4. Batik Fabric
Batik fabrics are known for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns. They are often hand-dyed, making them more unique. Although more expensive, batik fabrics are highly durable and can add an artistic touch to your quilt backing.
5. Muslin
Muslin is an unbleached cotton fabric that has a simple, natural look. It’s budget-friendly and works well for backing when you want the focus to be on the quilt top. Muslin is available in wider widths, making it a good option for larger quilts.
Piecing Quilt Backing
When your quilt is wider than the fabric you have on hand, piecing the backing becomes necessary. Piecing quilt backing involves sewing two or more fabric panels together to create a backing large enough for the quilt.
Step 1: Choose Your Fabric
Before you begin piecing, decide whether you want the fabric seams to be visible or blend in with the backing. For more seamless results, use the same fabric for all panels. Alternatively, you can mix and match fabrics for a more eclectic look.
Step 2: Align Fabric Panels
Lay out your fabric panels, ensuring the patterns and grain lines are aligned correctly. This will prevent any distortion during sewing.
Step 3: Sew the Panels Together
Sew the panels together using a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Press the seams open or to one side to reduce bulk. To ensure durability, you may want to reinforce the seam with an additional row of stitching.
Step 4: Trim the Edges
After sewing the panels together, trim the edges to create an even backing. Make sure the final dimensions are at least 8 inches larger than your quilt top (4 inches extra on each side).
Quilt Backing Tips and Tricks
Tip 1: Prewash Your Fabric
It’s always a good idea to prewash your quilt backing fabric, especially if you’re using natural fibers like cotton or flannel. Prewashing will help remove any chemicals from the manufacturing process and prevent shrinkage after quilting.
Tip 2: Press Your Fabric
Before cutting and piecing your quilt backing, press the fabric with an iron to remove any wrinkles or creases. This will make the fabric easier to handle and sew.
Tip 3: Use Wide Backing for Large Quilts
Wide backing fabrics (typically 108 inches wide) are an excellent option for larger quilts because they eliminate the need for piecing. Using wide backing can save time and reduce the number of visible seams.
Tip 4: Avoid Directional Prints
If you’re new to quilting, avoid using fabrics with directional prints (e.g., stripes or patterns that need to be aligned in a specific way). Piecing directional prints can be challenging, and any misalignment will be noticeable on the finished quilt.
Tip 5: Consider the Quilt’s Purpose
The type of fabric you choose for your quilt backing should align with the quilt’s intended use. For example, if the quilt is meant to be used for warmth, a cozy fabric like flannel or Minky might be ideal. For a decorative quilt, cotton or batik fabric might be a better choice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Not Adding Enough Extra Fabric
One of the most common mistakes is failing to add enough extra fabric around the quilt top. Always ensure you add at least 4 inches to each side to account for quilting and binding.
Mistake 2: Skipping Prewashing
Skipping the prewashing step can lead to shrinkage and distortion after the quilt is washed. This can cause puckering and uneven stitches, ruining the quilt’s appearance.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Fabric Grain
When piecing quilt backing, pay attention to the fabric grain. Ignoring the grain lines can result in stretched or skewed fabric, making it difficult to get a smooth and even finish.
Mistake 4: Using Low-Quality Fabric
While it may be tempting to use a cheaper fabric for the backing, using low-quality materials can affect the durability and overall look of your quilt. Always opt for high-quality fabric, especially for the backing, as it will ensure your quilt lasts longer and looks professional.
Conclusion
Knowing how much quilt backing you need and understanding the different types of fabrics, methods for piecing, and essential tips will help you complete your quilting project with ease.
Whether you’re making a baby quilt, a bedspread, or a decorative throw, the backing plays a critical role in your quilt’s structure and appearance.
Take the time to calculate your fabric correctly, choose the right materials, and follow the best practices outlined in this guide to ensure a beautiful, professional-quality quilt that will stand the test of time.
