You did a nice job of piecing this one together! Too bad you can't use the checkered fabric, it would have looked great, but I'm sure your replacement will too. Can't wait to see the end result, good luck!
Your quilt top looks great. I agree that the checkered border would be a good addition. You already have the fabric and it would be an appropriate border.
Such a masculine quilt. I am sure the recipient won't notice that the back is not checkered flag. Or you could make borders on it like suggested by others
