Sunday, April 29, 2012

Two Sides to every Story - and Quilt

Dr Seuss backing Stripe
When I first started making quilts, the backing was just something needed to hold the front and batting together.  For years it was a solid piece. Then it became a few chunks of fabric.

Now, it feels like another opportunity to tell a second story. The relationship to the front; how it compliments or competes is really quite intriguing to me. 

The freedom to explore the limitless possibilities when designing the backing, especially when the design of the front is uniform or predictable is very appealing.  I've found that sometimes, I like the back better than or at least as much as the front.  In the case of Dr Seuss Sparkle Punch, I'm certainly having more fun with the sequel. 


The inspiration for my back design came from a combination of the one I saw at The Stash and this one by Iheartcharms. Linking up to {Sew} Modern Monday at Canoe Ridge Creations and Manic Monday at SewHappyGeek - go take a peak for a wealth of ideas.
How about you - what's your feeling about the back of a quilt?

4 comments:

  1. I think I'm growing the same relationship with quilt backs as you are. I started with quilts having a solid back, then used scraps from the front fabrics to make a strip on the back. My most recent quilt has a back that I actually like better than the front most days. I started the front so long ago and the design is the reason I wanted to make the quilt in the first place, so I'm a little disappointed that I like "the back" more. I've started just calling it "the other side".

    And it's also so practical! My quilts are for snuggling up on the couch, and it's nice to know that no matter what wonky angle it's being used at, it still looks pretty on the outside.

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  2. I really like the backs to work with the fronts as well...but I like to leave a little to chance. I sort of relax and let the back sort of happen after choosing fabrics that work with the front, if that makes any sense.

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  3. The back is so cute! I love it. Good job!!!

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  4. Very fun! I like coordinating backs too, but it's a toss up if I'm too impatient to be creative. Love when it happens though!

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