Wow, Marsha, I never gave a thought to hiding the dirt, LOL - maybe I should have!

But to answer your question, I usually made my backings out of one of the prints in the quilt, or the background fabric, which in my case was usually a white-on-white print. Several of our quilters here sent me backings when I was making the group QoVs, and they were patrotics. My favorite was a navy with tiny white stars.

I haven't used many of the Kona solids, but I think you're correct in thinking they may be a bit harsh. Have you thought about a flannel? I would prewash flannel, if I used it.

So, LOL, I'm really not much help, am I?

Walter Reed is not clean, sorry to say. I know these quilts go everywhere, but I'm thinking they need to have the grunge disguised:). I had not thought of flannel. Maybe I'll go look at a small print for the back or TOT in a navy.
After I finish the DNP I'll post a picture -it is so fast to make. I need to have a few quick, simple quilts in my file. this is one I'll use again - I call it the Wife in Law Quilt ~LOL

Gotta love a Disappearing Nine-Path, don't you? I can't wait to see the photos!

I take the dirt factor into account too and always try to use a dark backing. And I agree that muslin just doesn't seem to be good enough for this project. My favorite is a maroon with a slightly lighter star that I've used in several quilts. I've run out now and just used the last of it in the top of the QOV I'm working on. Navy with tiny white stars would be perfect!

Flannel would be nice and cozy. So would Minky but it's so expensive! If you like lighter colors, a blue/white stripe like mens shirting would be attractive. I agree that Kona would be too stiff. And solids seem to show lint, pet hair and dust so quickly!

Kate

I just don't see anything wrong with muslin. It's a traditional fabric for backing quilts. If you are worried about dirt, Jo-Ann's does sell tea dyed muslin.

fran - I like muslin-I have a bolt of 90" wide premium Kona unbleached muslin - it is smooth and soft and I like the way it feels. I did not know they had tea dyed muslin. Thank you - I'll look for it.
Such wonderful suggestions.

I like muslin too but much of it is more loosely woven than typical quilting fabrics. I think that's the reason QOV Foundation requests that it not be used.

Moda muslin is like cold butter, Rangefinder muslin could give a person splinters.

Kate-Thanks for pointing out not to use muslin don't know that I would here, because the "color isn't right and it is too plain", but good info to know. I had to search the QofV long answer to find where they don't want you to use muslin. Like patsy, my muslin is smooth like butter.

What's wrong with the wide backing fabrics?
I know that some are really expensive, but most are reasonably priced
and would be cheaper than buying enough yardage of 44"-45" to piece together for a back.
I like to buy it at JoAnn's with a 50% off coupon or at the Fabric Shack for more variety.
Cathy

Here is a link that might be useful: Fabric Shacks Quilt Backs

Nothing is wrong with the wide backing fabric! It's wonderful! I think it is the cost that often stands in the way, but finding it on sale or using a coupon is the way to do it.

Cathy - pretty, pretty backing ~~I found one that is perfect for another project.
Thanks for the link. I admit, I did not look for the Qof V back yet, the other jumped at me screaming "but me - buy me":)