Minky is nice, but it is $13 a yard and more everywhere I've seen it.

These are grown men and women the quilts are going to for QOV. They really might prefer a backing made to represent their branch of the military. There are lots of nice Marine Corps, Army, Navy and Air Force prints out there right now. Some are old fashioned looking with uniforms and aircraft from the 40s. Some are just the logo.

I know this is what the military people in my life would be proud to have as the backing. They are each proud of their branch of service!

i had an old Army blanket from 1945 that was in great shape...for a friend I cut out and made him a parka. I managed to save the tag during the cutting and when it was all sewn together it remained on the parka. He has loved and used it dearly since. You may want to check your local Army-Navy store nearby and pick up a few of these...you could then quilt the top directly to the blanket and only have to bind. It is a thought.

I was thinking of the Minky for a quilt other than the QOV. But now that you mention it, wouldn't it be better to use the military style fabric or theme for the top of the quilt? And whoever wrote the requirements for the backing had brought up that using a soft fabric (like Minky) is because its obviously meant to be used and to be against the skin and for the consideration of burned and visually disabled soldiers.

Black River Falls, WI

Hi everyone! I am one of 2 North Dakota Coordinators for Quilts of Valor. We are trying to get the headquarters to change their website a little bit to include where you can contact your own state coordinator. Some people ask about how many wounded there really are. QOV also includes the psychologically wounded as well as the physically wounded. Let's just say, we will be making quilts long after the war is over.
It doesn't really matter where you are in the world; anyone getting involved will be a vital part of this great historical adventure. It may sound a bit daunting at first but it really is simple enough. We do like 100% cotton fabrics and we do like a pillow case made for presentation. We can find the longarmers and we can even provide batting and backing if necessary. Please try to remember that these QOV's are to be machine or hand quilted. A minkee or fleece backing may not be the best choice. Soft, yes, but expensive (minkee) and also not machine quilting friendly. A simple cotton backing would be the best choice. If you would like more information you can go to our Upper Midwest QOV website (www.qovf-um.org) and find patterns for quilts and also for the pillowcase which anyone is free to download, copy and use. We also tried to compress the information based on the national website. Again, if you have ANY questions please send me an email at [email protected]. I will answer you or at least head you in the right direction. Keep up the good work. The need is great and is truly appreciated.

By all means, use whatever you wish. I know how peaceful a mountain scene can be. How about a wildlife theme? How about cool soothing colors such as greens and blues? How about a spirited sports theme? Use your imagination. You know what makes you feel good will make someone else also feel good. We need to make these soldiers feel at ease. I, too, believe they have seen enough of the camo to last a lifetime. On the other hand, they are very proud of the Red, White and Blue. It is entirely up to you, I am sure whatever you decide it will be truly appreciated!