Binding a Quilt Corner

Cutting Fabric for Binding

There are many ways to cut fabric when binding a quilt. Fabric is typically cut lengthwise or crosswise with the grain of the fabric. However to achieve attractive-looking corners, especially when working with fabric that has a geometric design, you must cut the binding with the design. The design is not always printed with the grain of the fabric. In this case, if you cut with the grain, the corners of your binding will appear crooked, as the design will not line up.

When choosing a binding for your quilt, chose between single- or double-fold binding. Both have their advantages and disadvantages when they meet at the corners of the boarder. Single-fold binding is a border consisting of only one layer, while double-fold binding is a border made up of two layers. A double-fold binding will naturally be thicker, thus creating an even thicker layer at the meeting of the corners. If you are new to quilting, you may want to consider a single-fold binding, because there is less fabric, making the corners easier to work with.

Quilters also have the option of choosing between binding their corners in a continuous binding or creating mitered corners. Both are attractive and create a nice presentation. Continuous binding consists of strips of fabric that create a border, meeting at the corners of your quilt in a 90-degree angle. The corners are butted up against one another. On the other hand, mitered corners meet at a 45-degree angle, similar to a picture frame. If you are new to quilting, you may find mitered corners more challenging when completing your binding.

When working on the corners of your quilt binding, it is always better to have too much fabric than too little. Having excess fabric that hangs over as you are creating your binding will allow you to make adjustments and alterations when working on the corners. Cut away the excess fabric when you are satisfied with your binding. In addition to straight corners, it is also possible to create scalloped, serpentine or rounded corners, giving you quilt a fancier look.