I recently shared on my Instagram feed that I was using a flannel sheet from Target to back a quilt top and was met with lots of questions. We’ll talk about this in more details, but here’s the short story: you can ABSOLUTELY use bed sheets for quilt backs!
There’s a few obvious benefits to this:
- No piecing together a quilt back! This is the best benefit – just buy a sheet big enough to back your quilt and you don’t need to piece it together! Fabulous.
- Bed sheets are made to stand up wash & wear, so they’re sturdy and high quality.
- Cost-savings! Bed sheets and duvet covers are way more budget-conscious than quilting cotton, saving you precious pennies. Plus, as most bed sheet sets come with both a fitted and a flat sheet, you’re essentially getting two quilt backs out of one package! Duvets are naturally double-sided, and also provide two large pieces of fabric for you to use. When buying sheets, I tend to buy the largest size I can afford. I’m then able to use both the fitted and flat sheets for throw-sized quilts and larger. The fitted sheet on a twin size set, for example, would only be able to be used for a crib or baby sized quilt.
So let’s break it down. What should you look for when buying sheets for quilt backs? We’ll cover bed sheets, flannel sheets, and duvet covers since I treat all three of these differently.
Sheet Sets:
What to look for: 100% cotton sheets. Don’t be tempted by all the pretty designs in microfiber or polyester! Not only are they difficult to baste, but they will slip and slide a lot more than cotton will, which means quilting will be that much more difficult. Plus, polyester won’t shrink like cotton does, so if you’re not one to pre-shrink your fabrics before you make a quilt top, you’ll end up with warping and distortion in your finished quilt.
When buying cotton sheets, you actually want to buy low thread counts. Yes! That’s right! The idea that a low thread count equals a low quality sheet is actually a myth. Aim for sheets with a thread count around 200 (less is preferred). The higher the thread count, the tighter the weave in the fabric, which is harder for your sewing machine to punch through. This is why a lot of longarm quilters discourage bedsheets. The higher thread count sheets can cause issues with making sure your needle is going through all the layers.
For reference, quilting cottons have a thread count of 60-75 threads per inch. Not only for the ease of sewing it in your machine, but getting a bed sheet with a similar thread count for the back will also help with even shrinking of materials when it is washed.
Thrift stores can be excellent places to find fun and unique bed sheets. Keep in mind most vintage sheets are a 50/50 mix of cotton and polyester. I’ve seen people use these with good results, however, it is recommended to starch the vintage sheets and to use a lower setting on your iron, or else you risk melting the fabric!
You can sometimes find just a flat sheet by itself, which is a good idea if you don’t foresee yourself using more of that print in the future. If you do get a full set of sheets, don’t discount the pillowcases! Standard pillowcases are approximately 20″ x 30″ per side, and king size pillowcase are approximately 20″ x 37″ per side. This means you’re getting almost a whole yard of fabric from one pillowcase! Use these for quilt tops, or, if you don’t mind having a seam (most pillowcases are sewn together on both sides), use them as quilt backs for wall hangings and baby-sized quilts.
Special considerations/care: I don’t have any for bed sheets, I don’t prewash them if I haven’t pre-washed my quilt top. I just give it a good press, baste, and quilt as usual.
Flannel Sheets
What to look for: Flannel sheets that are 100% cotton. Most on the market today are, but there are a few exceptions to keep an eye out on. Additionally, I’ve found printed flannels to wash and wear better than solids, which tend to pill more.
I’ve had good luck with flannel sheets from Bed, Bath & Beyond and Target. For both of these, I watch for sales, usually around Thanksgiving and Christmas. Although the holiday-themed flannel sheets are fun, I’ll also look for plaids, stripes, or other more neutral designs that can be used year-round and stock up when they are a good price. Our quilts in our home get used often, and we’ve found ourselves reaching for the flannel backed ones over and over again, due to their softness, warmth, and drape.
Flannel thread counts are usually no more than 100 threads per inch. However, flannels shrink a LOT more than quilting cottons do. The first time you wash flannel, whether a bed sheet or off the bolt, it can shrink up to 10%, but 5-6% is more typical. Quilting cotton shrinks about 2-3% for comparison. Flannel will continue to shrink in subsequent washes, with less shrinkage each time.
Special considerations/care: I prewash all flannel before using it in a quilt, even if I haven’t prewashed the quilt top. I’ve found this to be the best way to deal with the uneven shrinking rates between quilting cotton and flannel. When the quilt has been quilted and bound, I’ve washed them in the machine and they’ve come out beautifully. When using the fitted sheet in a set, I will wash it first, then cut out the elastic and side seams to provide a flat fabric surface for the quilt back. This will minimize fabric fraying and frustration!
Duvet Covers
What to look for: Duvet covers that are 100% cotton or linen. Duvet covers tend to have a thread count of 100-200, and it is recommended you stay within this range.
Duvet covers are a great way to get two large quilt backs! The benefit to a duvet over a sheet set is that instead of a fitted sheet and a flat sheet, you essentially get two flat sheets. They’re incredibly soft and made to wear well, so the quality is usually pretty high. Duvet sets usually come with pillowcases as well.
Some of my favorite places to shop for duvet covers are Ikea and H&M. Although it is possible to shop online for Ikea, I’ve found in-person, when possible, to be a better recommendation, as some of their least expensive duvet covers have a rough or scratchy feel to them. That being said, I’ve also bought quite a few covers from Ikea that have been high quality and soft.
Special considerations/care: I don’t pre-wash duvets before using them. I simply cut along the seam lines to divide the fabric into two, and press one half to prep for basting. Fold the other half and save for a future quilt back, or use the fabric in a quilt top!
I personally really love using sheets and other unusual cotton items in quilts. My quilt guild has been giving me some weird looks because they think I’m cheap but because most of my quilts end up as gifts I kinda have to make sure I stay within the budget.
That being said, I’ve used duvet covers both as backing and within quilts, the grey stripped Ikea one if my favorite. I’ve also worked with Ikea 100% cotton curtains and I really love the look. They are a bit heavier but I personally think they add a great texture to a quilt.
Thanks for sharing your tips I really gotta stay on the look out for some flannel sheets now!
The curtains are a great idea! There’s nothing wrong with staying in budget either! Keep on doing you 🙂
I want to try to use flannel sheets for batting. I think they may feel cool enough for summer quilts.
Yes, that’s a great idea! I also find loosely woven fabrics are also great for summer for the quilt top/backing because they’re lighter and breathe more.
Sounds like you’ve got the quilt police in your guild! I use sheets as backings too for heaps of different reasons.
Thank you for this information. I’m on my way to Target!!
Woohoo!!!
I have used sheets for quilt backings for 40 years. They hold up wonderfully and are easy on the budget. Be a wild child and try new things! You just might discover a well-kept secret! Happy quilting!
Thank you! It is great to hear they hold up as well as I suspected they did!
What I did not know about sheets!!!! Thanks so much for sharing this. Will be on the hunt now for some discounted sheet sets.
Yay!!! Enjoy the hunt!
Hello, I am a complete newbie. It is my 2020 resolution to learn to sew with a sewing machine. I am attempting to make a patchwork quilt. I have cut out all of my squares and now I’m pondering what to do next. I’m glad I came across this post as I was planning on using a duvet cover for the back of my quilt. Glad to see that some people do this, and I didn’t just come up with a weird concept!
I’m thinking of ways to keep cost down, and internal wadding seems pretty pricy. Do you think I could use a really low tog actual duvet inside?
How do you sew the final edge of the quilt up, neatly? Once your layers are all together?
Thank you in advance!
I’ve seen people use a flannel sheet instead of batting, but your quilt won’t be as thick. I would suggest buying batting with a coupon or waiting for a sale at a big box store (warm & natural is a good brand and you can usually get it for 40% off at Hobby Lobby or Joann’s). Once your layers are together you’ll want to bind your quilt. I don’t have a binding tutorial (yet!) but if you google “quilt binding tutorial” you should be pointed in the right direction. Feel free to message me with any other questions. Welcome to the wonderful world of quilting!
You Tube has many wonderful post on quilting and sewing in general. You can watch and learn
At your own leisure.
Have fun sewing,
Linda
I have often used a second hand blanket for padding. It started as a budgetary consideration but there are many other benefits! I love the weight I get from including a heavy old woolen blanket and it is a fabulous way to keep stained or worn textiles out of the landfill. I have also used a thick plush blanket, with good success. I have also recovered a cheap duvet, and my daughter lovew how heavy and warm it is, but it would be impossible to quilt.
Thanks for a great tutorial, Learning to quilt is one of my 2020 goals but I didn’t want to spend a ton of money on my first attempt. I’m going to look for a sheet at a thrift store. BTW: I’m a huge Poodle lover so great name for your site!
Thank you so much! I’m excited for you to learn quilting! If you have any questions let me know.
Hi Elaine,
I am so excited…. I recently started self teaching w/the help of a 45 yr quilting friend via the local quilt guild, YouTube videos, & your Patchwork & Poodler. This will be a novela message, sorry🤩
I began hand applique projects getting better throughout time. This I started January 2020. Also did small to medium embroidery projects to hone my stitching skills.
Then we we’re blessed🥴😜 with COVID19, WAH…
Not being able to go to the fabric store as ours were all closed & shopping for ideas on line wasn’t working for me. Then one night I woke up at 3:15am, thinking of all the scraps the I had accumulated through the years which I purchased for different things, with much care.
So… I began cutting all into 2 1/2″ strips, various lengths as not all scrap pieces are created equal. Not exactly sure what I was going to do, mid way though I thought wow, I could do a scrap strip quilt. Feeling very adventurous and confident (surprised by this) I decided it would be for my son & daughter-in-law for a 2nd anniversary as the gift for traditional wedding is cotton.
I put all of the strips in the dryer to mix them for my plan was to pick each piece at random stitching end to end. Did I mention I plan to do a totally by hand quilt because hand sewing is ultimately relaxing for me. I created my own jelly roll 11″ in diameter.
Then I began stitching side to side 95″ strips. I also have enough for forpillow shams too❣️ Total time 16 days. I since squared it, just bought a queen flat sheet. Now my question is how much fabric do I need to purchase for the binding of my queen size quilt? I say Thank you for your blog sure. You are amazing❣️
Courage during pandemic 🥴
Hi Dixie! Measure all four sides of your quilt and add them together plus 20″ (side 1 + side 2 + side 3 + side 4 + 20). Divide that by 42″ (width of fabric) and that is the number of binding strips you need. Then multiply the number of binding strips you need by 2.5″ and that will give you how much fabric to buy. Enjoy!
👍👍👍 good explanation!
And *I* didn’t realize less is more on thread count!
Whodathunkit??
(More is USUALLY better! 🤦♀️)
Thanks Eliane!
Jeanne
Thanks Jeanne!
Hi Elaine! If I use a 70’s inspired vintage sheet it will have been washed. Do you then wash your quilt top before quilting so shrinkage is similar? I love all your tips in this post (and others!)
It is preferrable to prewash in that case, because If you don’t, your top will shrink more than your backing. This will lead to more quilt crinkles, so it really depends if you like the crinkles or not. (It won’t ruin the quilt though if you choose not to prewash your top fabrics, promise!)
And I’ve thought I was nuts I’ve used sheets for years. I also shop thrift stores and yard sales in search of fabric and clothing that I love the feel of and colors. Scrap quilting is one of my favorite.
Scrap quilting is the best! I love repurposing clothing, bedsheets, duvet covers, etc. Clothing especially, as they are different substrates, add such texture to a quilt!
Any instructions and/or advice for a twin size no bind quilt? Or a no bind tied quilt/comforter? Using sheets or a duvet?
Hi Susan! My husband’s family used to sandwich two sheets with batting in the middle and yarn tie the whole thing. Then, since the edges of the sheets are already finished, just stitch them together.
Eliane,
I am an American living in Europe and I haven’t found quilt batting here that I like. Everyone uses duvet covers and duvets. So, I have made an “Around the World” quilt, but the edges are “sawtooth”, not a completely finished square. I plan to sew my quilt top to a flat cotton sheet, wrong sides together, and then turn it right sides together. Will that work? Should I try to find fabric to complete those “sawtooth” edges? I’ll sew the completed “quilted” topper sheet to a second flat sheet to make it a duvet.
Thanks for your advice and input! I’m fairly new to quilting and there are only a few people I can even ask about this.
Hi Lori! Your idea should work. Another idea is to baste your quilt top to a sheet without batting in-between and add some quilting to hold those layers together. The last thing you want is a bunch of fabric twisting and shifting while you try to sleep! Then finishing the edges, either with a simple zig-zag or some binding, before sewing it to the second flat sheet to make a duvet.
Wow what a great article!! I have used curtains as a backing as well. but now my go to will be sheets. This will be definitely more economical. One other item I have used for/in place of batting was 2 airline blanket for a twin quilt. (the blankets were brand new). I did wash because I was not sure if it would shrink. It was a very nice quality and the quilt came out loveley. Again thanks for the tips. Off to more sewing!
Candace
I love the tip about the airline blankets! I bought some linen curtains at Ikea a while back intending to use them for quilting but they ended up on my living room windows instead – oops! Also, looking for linen or cotton tablecloths is another fun alternative to quilting fabric for quilt backs.
My mom and friends made my daughter a machine pieced hand quilted king size quilt as wedding gift. They use continuously and three years later the underside is balled -I guess from rubbing against the top sheet? and so not comfy. I’m guessing mom used a sheet. Any ideas? Would fusing a better grade sheet to the underside work? Other ideas? I don’t want to ask mom as she’s already annoyed and had to have it mended when the kids’ puppy tore a hole in it!
I think adding another sheet to the backside would work. If you know a little about quilting, you could remove the binding, add the sheet, and replace the binding to encase everything together. If not, just stitching another sheet to the back and tacking it in places should hold it all together. I’ve never tried this though! Make sure you pre-wash/pre-shrink the sheet if you try it!
Do you think I could use a king size flat sheet to make a quilt for a toddler bed? I was thinking of ordering Tosnail or Warm Company batting, as it’s my first quilt. Or is it better to just buy fabric from say Hobby Lobby that’s for quilting?
You can definitely use sheets for the quilt top too. Same rules as above apply – make sure you’re using a lower thread count
I want to make a quilt with a large piece of fabric. I have 2 yards of a beautiful print I don’t want to cut. I’ll add about 5 inches of fabric on both sides of the width. I want to do the same to the back OR use a sheet. Does that seem too lazy? I just love the fabric in a huge block (2 yards). Do I have to bind the quilt? or can I baste and sew through all layers, turn inside out and top stitch it all around? I also wanted to add colorful embroidery thread french knots as a finishing touch through all three layers to keep the lining from shifting. Advice please.
I think whatever quilt YOU think is beautiful is the quilt to make! You could certainly top stitch the edges instead of doing traditional binding. Sounds like it will be beautiful!
Just stumbled across this as I was looking for some cost alternatives to fabric and trying to make it something I could manage and not piece together. I do have one question about the sheet… How do you deal with the seam at the top of the sheets? That little couple extra inches… do you cut it? Use it and move on?
I usually cut it. If I need that extra space I’ll take the time to seam rip it apart. but usually I chop it off.
I wish to use a high thread count polyester sheet in a project, and agree (from experience!) that my sewing machine really struggles when I try sewing more than 3 thicknesses (just the hem has 3 layers!). my poor machine clunks in protest!. Is there a specific needle I need to use to make it easier on my machine?
Thanks
Machines struggle with high thread counts as punching through the layers is difficult.
Love this design!
Thank you!
WHAT THREAD COUNT IS THE BEST COUNT TO USE?
My favorite is Aurifil 50 weight. Happy sewing!
LOL! I just hit the after Christmas sales and got several flannel Christmas sheet sets! Most at Target but one at Aldi too! So excited to make more Christmas quilts for my sister.
I never thought to look at Aldi, that’s a great idea! I get most of mine from Target but occasionally from Bed, Bath, and Beyond. I’ve also bought Christmas ones before that didn’t look “Christmas-y” and used them on non-holiday quilts.
If I am hand quilting can I use a higher thread count or even microfiber or would that lead to stretching when I put all the layers on my quilting hoop? Thank you
With a higher thread count, you end up “punching” holes in your fabric. A looser weave means your needle slides between the weave of the fabric. If you end up having to seam rip, those little holes might be there forever.
Have just finished piecing a quilt top, fabric has frayed quite a bit, hopefully no further. Have decidd to use a flannel sheet as the wadding and another sheet as the backing. Glad to read so many use this option.
Have enjoyed reading so many comments and suggestions.
Hi Eliane, I have always used wool blend batting and quilters backing. Now I would like to make lighter weight quilts and cut down on the expense. Is it enough to use one layer of flannel sheet to back the quilt with no batting. Or would two layers of flannel be ok or make it too heavy or too hard on the machine needles. Will be for lap and baby quilts.many thanks for sharing these great tips.
I would use a thin cotton batting with flannel backing. I think two layers of flannel may be too heavy, and no batting might not be enough. You’ll have to experiment though!
How do you know what size sheet to buy? Is there a easy peasy chart somewhere?( fingers crossed)
Check the sheet size on the set you’re looking to buy. Every sheet package lists the size of the sheet. No chart because all manufacturers use different sizing!
I love using sheets as quilt backs and duvet covers! They are so versatile and easy to work with.