The Perfect Backing for a Patchwork Quilt. Which Fabric Should You Choose?

I recently started thinking about what the backing of a patchwork quilt should be like.

I haven't been quilting for very long, and I started with regular cotton sateen, then looked for alternatives because I wanted something more beautiful. I once found an article online suggesting that calico is perfect for the backing. I got excited and tried it; it felt nice to the touch, but I was so disappointed when, after the first wash, it pilled significantly, and after the third, the color faded drastically. The front side is gorgeous, and maybe the back isn't as noticeable if you don't use the quilt every day, but I know it doesn't look as beautiful as it did at the start.

Now I use cotton.

By the way, fabric stores offer special (wide) cotton specifically for patchwork. Its main feature is not just the width, but the variety of colors and shades. You can choose one that matches the front side, which gives the piece an even better look. Although this option significantly increases the cost of the project, in my opinion, the pros far outweigh the cons:

• Durability;
• The color does not fade or dull;
• Pleasant to the touch;
• Excellent appearance (from all sides);

Using my own patchwork quilts and blankets, I can note that the backing is just as visible as the front. And if we are talking about active use, rather than just covering something, it is constantly visible.

I've also read that you can use flannel (American or Korean) or plush. But I'm not ready for such experiments; I'm afraid it might turn out the same way it did with the calico.

I'd be interested to hear what methods you use to make the backing beautiful?