Backing your quilt with Cuddle fabric (also called Snuggle or Minky), is one of the coziest, most luxurious options out there for a quilt. It’s perfect for baby quilts, throws, or anything you want to snuggle under. But, like any good thing, it comes with a few quirks. Bits ‘n Pieces has got you covered with tips so that backing your quilt with Cuddle fabric is a breeze.
Why is Cuddle the best backing for quilts?
Cuddle is such a great choice for quilt backing for a bunch of reasons. Cuddle lives up to its name, it’s soft and snuggly and it’s great for making a quilt extra warm and cozy, perfect for winter quilts and throws. Despite its plush feel, it holds up really well to washing and everyday use. And the variety of Cuddle available is huge. It comes in tons of colors, patterns, and textures so you can easily find one to match to your quilt top.
However, Cuddle fabric isn’t the same as working with cotton. It’s a knit which means that it’s stretchy. Cuddle also has a nap, meaning that the pile (aka the loops and fibers that stand up) lay in a particular direction. And it’s thick, so you have to take care when you’re seaming it. So we have a couple of steps to make sure your Cuddle quilt comes out exactly how you dreamed.
The Best Tips for a Cuddle Backing
Pay Attention to the Nap
We know we just said this, but it’s worth repeating. Cuddle fabric has a nap so if you’re seaming two pieces together, make sure the nap runs the same way on both pieces. Otherwise, one side might look darker or lighter than the other, and it’ll feel different when you run your hand over it. Trust us, it’s worth taking the extra minute to make sure they’re going the same way!
Seam with Care
If you’re not using a wide Cuddle fabric and need to seam your Cuddle backing, you have a couple of extra steps to take so that it doesn’t create a bulky ridge in your quilt back. Sew your seam with a ½” seam allowance. After it’s stitched, you can do one of two things. First, you could grade the seam, aka trim one side of the seam allowance shorter than the other to reduce bulk when you press to the side. Or, you could press the seam open using the low heat setting on your iron (or a pressing cloth) to gently press the seam open and help distribute the thickness more evenly.
Use Basting Spray for Quilting on a Domestic Machine
When you’re quilting a Cuddle quilt on a domestic machine, basting spray is a lifesaver. It keeps your quilt sandwich (top, batting, and Cuddle backing) from shifting while you sew. Just spray evenly, smooth out any wrinkles, and you’re good to go.
Watch the Tension on a Longarm Frame
If you’re using a longarm, don’t over-tighten the quilt on the frame. Cuddle fabric has some stretch, certainly more stretch than a cotton backing, and pulling it too tight can cause puckering when you take it off of a quilting frame. Keep the tension even but gentle. We like to load it and then unwind it about a quarter turn before starting to stitch.
Cuddle fabric might require a little extra attention, but the result is worth it. That soft, plush backing will make every quilt feel special. Just remember to pay attention to the nap, baste it well, and take your time. You’ll end up with a quilt that’s as beautiful as it is cozy.