how to sew the back of a quilt

3 min read 05-02-2025

Meta Description: Learn how to sew a perfect quilt back! This comprehensive guide covers choosing fabrics, calculating yardage, piecing techniques, and finishing touches for a beautiful, professional-looking quilt back. From simple to complex designs, we've got you covered. Get started on your next quilting project today!

Quilting is a rewarding hobby, but often the back of the quilt gets overlooked. A beautifully finished quilt back enhances the overall look of your project. This guide will walk you through the process, from choosing fabrics to sewing the final seams.

Choosing Your Quilt Backing Fabric

The back of your quilt is just as important as the front. Selecting the right fabric is crucial. Consider these factors:

Fabric Type: Flannel, cotton, and quilting cotton are popular choices. Flannel adds warmth, while quilting cotton provides durability and crispness.
Width: Quilt backing fabrics are usually wider than standard quilting cottons. This reduces the number of seams needed. Aim for a fabric at least 42 inches wide.
Pattern and Color: Choose a fabric that complements your quilt top, but doesn't overpower it. A solid color or a subtle pattern works well. Consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.

Calculating Fabric Yardage

Accurately calculating your backing fabric is vital to avoid running short. Here’s a simple method:

Measure your quilt top: Measure the width and length of your finished quilt top.
Add extra: Add at least 6-8 inches to both the width and length. This accounts for seam allowances and shrinkage.
Divide by fabric width: Divide the total width by the width of your fabric (usually 42-45 inches). This determines the number of fabric pieces needed for the width.
Calculate total yardage: Multiply the number of pieces needed by the length required (in yards).

Preparing the Quilt Backing

Once you've got your fabric, prepare it for sewing.

Pre-washing:

Pre-washing your backing fabric is highly recommended. This prevents shrinkage after the quilt is finished. Wash and dry the fabric according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Cutting and Joining Backing Fabric:

If you need multiple pieces, carefully cut and join them. Use a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Press seams open for a flat, smooth finish. You'll want to create a single, large piece of fabric slightly larger than your quilt top.

Sewing the Quilt Back to the Quilt Top

Now it's time to bring the front and back together!

Layering:

Lay the backing: Lay your prepared backing fabric face down on a large, clean surface.
Center the batting: Place your batting on top of the backing, centering it carefully.
Top layer: Place your quilt top (right side up) on top of the batting.
Smooth: Smooth out any wrinkles or bumps to ensure even layers. Use safety pins to secure the layers together.

Quilting:

Quilt your layers together using your preferred method – either by machine or hand. This will secure the layers and prevent shifting. [Link to article on quilting techniques]

Finishing Touches

The finishing touches will make your quilt back look truly professional.

Binding:

Binding is a decorative edge that finishes off the quilt. Choose a coordinating fabric for your binding. Many tutorials are available online for both machine-applied and hand-sewn binding. [Link to article on quilt binding]

Labeling:

Add a label with your name, date, and any other relevant information. This adds a personal touch and preserves your quilting history.

Conclusion

Sewing a quilt back might seem daunting, but by following these steps and taking your time, you can create a beautiful and durable quilt that you'll cherish for years. Remember to choose fabrics you love, take accurate measurements, and enjoy the process. Your finished quilt will be a testament to your skill and creativity!