PaperPrincess

Hi, I've never used a sheet as a backing on my long arm, but the quilt I'm doing is going on a bed and she wants to use a matching sheet as a backing. The sheet is 100% cotton, and is a tighter weave than the quilting cotton used for the top. I will be using W&N. Should I use a larger needle or a smaller needle than normal?
Anything else I need to know?

QuilterMomma

I would not change my needle, you may have to slow down though. The sheet for the backing is not really a great choice for her, but people choose it. The sheet, at least in my opinion, falls similar to a tight weaved batik fabric. So if you need to adjust, it would be along those lines. What thread you using? That may be the trickier part than anything because tight weaved fabric needs a good thread. If were me I would lean more towards a poly than a cotton thread.

sandy l

When I use a sheet as backing on my longarm, I use poly thread. I don't change needle size.

PaperPrincess

Thanks, now that you mention it, it does remind me of a batik. I was planning on using poly thread. I will do a bit of practice first.

normasews

I use sheets for my backings all the time. I don't change the needle and I typically use cotton thread from Connecting Threads.

ontheriver

I use sheets for backing all the time and have never changed anything on my mega quilter. I shop thrift stores and keep a supply on hand. They work great on family quilts and 2.00 a sheet sure beats the price of fabric on my very limited budget. If i didnt i would have a pile to be quilted cause couldnt afford backing. Many quilts i have gifted did not even realize the back was a sheet. Sometime I machine appliqué extra blocks to them to add interest and never had problem there either.