And Finally The FreeSpirit 108″ Wide Fabrics!

“You have a gorgeous back side!”

“Your brand is what other people say about you when you are not in the room.” When you think of FreeSpirit Fabrics, words like colorful, creative, iconic and inspiring come to mind, even when it comes to the back of your quilt.

We want to make certain that what touches your body, as you snuggle under your quilt, is as meaningful as all the love that went into creating it.  That is why the majority of the 108” quilt backs are printed on a luxurious, 100% cotton, 300-thread count, sateen weave fabric.

Why sateen you ask? All you quilters invest a great deal of time, money, creative angst and love into making quilts.  We believe that the back of your quilt deserves that same attention as the front and thus a better-quality base cloth is desired. Plus, these quilt back fabrics offer an amazing, soft, supple hand for sewing fashion apparel, home décor and bags.

Let’s start with quilt backs from Kaffe Fassett, the master of color, ensuring the back of your quilt is as colorful and as beautiful as the front.  For example, Fruit Mandela (images above) reads like an explosion of color–pink, red and blue — as the design radiates a celebration of fruits and vegetables. 

Also making a bold statement is Full Blown (images above) in three sumptuous colors.  The vibrant colors of red, blue and pink, make these large-scale florals sing. This fabric would even make for a stunning, long, flowing strapless gown. It would be a real show stopper at any big event.

For an equally stunning option, with an understated tone, Stone Flower (images above) in grey, neutral and royal blue, replicate the look and feel of Kaffe’s hand painting. It brings a sophisticated Victorian air to the back of your quilt. The Stone Flower motif measures 15 1/2”.

Rounding out the Kaffe offering of 108” quilt backs are two infamous designs (see images above), both in bold reds detailed with bright purple, aqua, yellow and pink.   Carpet, with its floral motifs, was inspired by a Persian rug from Kaffe’s world travels. Circles will not make you dizzy, but can be the perfect background for beautiful circular quilting.

If you have ever wondered what it may be like to wander around in the imaginative mind of Tula Pink, look no further than her Pinkerville quilt backings (see image above).  The piece de la resistance for any quilt, most especially one created with the magical designs and colors of Tula Pink, are these backings in Day Dream, Cotton Candy and Frolic.  The design of marbled waters offers a calming tranquility to even the most creative of endeavors.   In addition to the Pinkerville backings, Tula also introduces collection specific 108” quilt back fabrics. Releasing soon, you will be delighted by her newest spontaneous, seriously, don’t slip, turn your world upside down fabrics . . .  for now, we won’t say much more.

For a more urban vintage look, turn to Tim Holtz’s Eclectic Elements 108” quilt back fabrics (see images above).  Correspondence in taupe and blue stamp can be used to back your next quilt or perhaps it can be used for a tote, with postage marks and passport stamps.  Neutral tone on tone florals intertwined with beautiful script letters, describes rose parcel in a perfect harmonious taupe.  Gothic in neutral is an aged damask print for a truly time-worn and antique look. 

FreeSpirit also offers the familiarity and simplicity of a selection of 60 square combed cotton 108” quilt backs (see images above).  Coming to shops in May are two whimsical dots in violet and indigo as part of the FreeSpirit Murmur Collection by Valori Wells. Now, who does not love a dot? The versatility of this design makes them the perfect everyday go-to for any quilt.

In the continued exploration into the authentic archives of The Original Morris & Co, FreeSpirit has delved into the original works and colorations to develop a 108″ series featuring some of William Morris’ most iconic designs.  These 60×60 construction combed cotton backings are stunning and consist of several standout prints. The Acanthus in rich tonal neutrals, aqua and rustic autumn-like colors is one. In addition, there is the tone on tone navy, red and linen Strawberry Thief which is super popular.

Now that you are fully versed on FreeSpirit 108” quilt backs, see for yourself that, even on the back of your quilt, we stay true to what FreeSpirit means in the world of quilting. The next time you are seeking out 108″ wide quilt backs, please make sure to put these FreeSpirit gems on the top of your list. And don’t forget, if you local quilt shop doesn’t carry them, ask the owner if he/she can special order it for you. 

Written by Nancy Jewell, Managing Director of FreeSpirit Fabrics. Edited by me!