How to use fleece as a backing thus eliminating the need for batting

Question

What do I need to do to prepare my quilt to use a nonpill fleece as a backing and not use a batting inbetween it and the top?  The pattern is a pineapple/log cabin  block.  The finished size will be 42 x 54.

Comments

You don't have to do anything except cut the backing to the correct size.  If you want it thicker you can add a layer of flannel inbetween.  I have used fleece many times and it quilts up very well for backing.

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This is really easy-peasy!   I've quilted lap quilts on DSM's (domestic sewing machines) using fleece in place of both batting and backing. The only thing you need to be careful about when using fleece is that it is a very easily stretched material with memory - that is it will "snap back" if stretched.  So just smoothe it out with your fingers, being careful not to pull it in any way.  It is so cozy too!

Answer 1

The main thing would be to put it on your longarm or midarm with the stretchiest part going from side to side.

I quilted a quilt with a fleece backing on my domestic machine and didn't have any problems at all.   That quilt was 72" by 84".

Your quilt is a lot smaller.  I think you will like the results.

Answer 2

Using fleece as a backing is a piece of cake as long as you remember the Golden Rule of Fleece, which is * do not, under any circumstances, stretch it out."

Fleece has memory and if you stretch it while loading it or quilting it, it will snap right back to it's original dimensions and take the rest of the quilt with it. Bummer!

To avoid this, simply apply enough tension to keep it straight and wrinkle free, but do not  stretch it at all and you'll be good to go. Fleece quilts up beautifully and really shows off your stitching, plus it's soft and snuggly and who doesn't love that?

 

Kimmy Brunner

Machine Quiting Teacher of the Year