The Ultimate Guide to Extra Wide Quilt Backs and How to Use Them

When it comes to finishing your quilt, choosing the right quilt backing fabric is just as important as selecting your top fabrics. Extra wide quilt backs have become a popular choice for quilters, offering convenience, seamless finishes, and a professional touch. In this guide, we’ll explore what makes extra-wide quilt backing special, its benefits, and how to use it effectively. You can see our current selection of quilt backing fabrics here.

What Is Extra Wide Quilt Backing?

Extra wide quilt backing refers to fabric that is specially manufactured in widths ranging from 90 inches to 120 inches (or more), making it ideal for backing quilts without requiring additional seams. Unlike standard quilting cotton, which typically measures 42 to 44 inches wide, extra-wide fabric eliminates the need to piece multiple sections together, resulting in a cleaner and more professional look.

Benefits of Extra Wide Quilt Backs

No Seams Required – With extra-wide fabric, you don’t have to piece together multiple sections, reducing bulk and improving the quilt’s durability.

Smoother Finish – Since there are no joining seams, the quilt backing lays flatter, making the quilting process easier and achieving a more polished final product. 

Saves Time & Effort – Piecing together backing fabric can be time-consuming, and extra-wide quilt backs eliminate this step entirely.

Cost-Effective – While extra-wide backing fabric may seem more expensive initially, you actually use less meterage compared to piecing together standard widths, making it a budget-friendly option.

Versatile Uses – Not just for quilt backings! These fabrics are also great for curtains, tablecloths, and large sewing projects that require continuous fabric widths.

Beautiful designs - Quilt back fabrics tended in the past to be slightly forgotton and overlooked and the designs were very limited. Now many quilt designers will product quilt backs to compliment their fabric ranges, and these are often scaled up versions of some key design. You can find quilt backs from designers such as Tula Pink, Kaffe Fassett, Tim Holtz and Anna Maria.  

How to Use Extra Wide Quilt Backing

1. Measuring & Cutting

Before purchasing, measure your quilt top and add at least 2 to 4 inches to each side to ensure enough fabric for quilting and adjustments. For example, if your quilt top is 80 x 90 inches, you should look for a quilt backing that measures at least 88 x 98 inches to allow for proper loading onto a longarm machine or basting.

2. Pre-Washing & Preparation

Extra wide quilt backs, like all fabrics, can shrink. It’s a good idea to pre-wash and press the fabric before use to prevent shrinkage after quilting.

3. Positioning & Aligning

Lay the backing fabric flat on a large surface or floor to check for straight grain alignment. If needed, square up the fabric by trimming the edges to ensure it’s cut straight.

4. Basting the Layers

When sandwiching your quilt layers, use basting spray, safety pins, or hand basting to keep the backing fabric, batting, and quilt top securely in place before quilting. Ensure the backing is taut and wrinkle-free to prevent shifting.

5. Quilting & Finishing

Once basted, quilt as desired! Whether you use a domestic sewing machine, longarm quilting machine, or hand quilting techniques, extra-wide backing fabric ensures a smooth and professional finish.

Final Thoughts

Using extra wide quilt backing fabric simplifies the quilting process, saves time, and ensures a flawless finish. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced quilter, incorporating wide backing fabrics into your projects can elevate the overall look and feel of your quilts. Next time you’re finishing a quilt, consider going the extra-wide route for a seamless and professional touch!

Looking for the perfect extra-wide quilt backing? Explore our collection today and find the ideal fabric for your next quilting project!