Quilt Binding and Other Edge Finishes

This post contains affiliate links, for which I receive compensation.

Quilt binding is just one of many ways to finish your quilt's edges. Do you know which kind to use?

Here we'll discuss:

• Binding choices and alternatives to traditional bindings

• Whether or not the strips must be cut on the bias

• Characteristics of a good binding, and finally, 

• Share our readers' questions about binding

Your Quilt Binding Choices

The most common way to finish a quilt's edges is to bind it. Binding can be done in several ways.

An example of plaid, double-fold, bias binding

Double Fold Binding

(sometimes called French Fold Bias Binding)

This is the most used and durable quilt binding.

It is made from a double layer of quilting fabric using either the bias or straight of grain.

Easy to apply.

A good choice for any type of quilt. Wears well.

For more information, see learn how to make continuous bias quilt binding with:

• Part 1: Calculate How Much Fabric You Need?

• Part 2: Make the Continuous Bias Binding Stri

Single Fold Binding

This type of binding, as the name suggest, covers the quilt's edges with a single layer of fabric. It can be made of either bias or straight grain strips. It's easy to attach. Good for quilts that will be used lightly and washed infrequently.

Good for wall quilts.

Commercially-made Binding Tape

Precut & packaged bias binding tape: Black double fold (l), White single fold (r)

Commercially made binding can be a great time saver, if you choose the right one. There are two types:

• Precut and Packaged Binding Tape: This is sold as a notion in fabric stores. DO NOT use this for quilts. This binding is made of fabric 50% polyester/50% cotton and is quite different in quality than your typical quilt fabric. It tends to not lay flat after it's been washed. Save this for finishing baby bibs, aprons, seams in clothing, etc.

• Precut Bias Quilt Binding on Rolls: This type of binding is made and supplied by the same manufacturer's that produce the quality quilt fabric you'll find in your local quilt store. The two drawbacks are:
  

1. A limited choice of colors and patterns
2. A limited choice of binding widths

Alternatives to Quilt Binding

Prairie Points used on the edge of a quilt

Prairie Points

These are also sometimes called Sawtooth Edging, Dogtooth Borders or Cats' Ears.

These small folded triangles are made from either strips of fabric or small square, scraps to finish a quilt's edges.

Prairie points add a great deal of interest with the use of color and texture and are a great addition to any quilt.

What Makes A Good Binding

Quilters who enter shows find that bindings do count. Even if you don't enter shows, a poor binding can seriously effect a quilt's overall appearance.

A quality quilt binding is:

• Full - the top, batting and backing extend to the very outside edge of the completed binding

• Specific to the type of quilt – an antique looking quilt looks best with a skinny binding

• Covers the stitching line used to attach the binding to the quilt

• Even all around the entire quilt

• Flat - no puckers or twisting

Binding questions from our readers...

Our readers have asked several questions about how to bind their quilts. 

Read about their problems and the suggested solutions.

Please add to the conversation by sharing your experiences.

More on quilt binding

• How to Make Continuous Binding: Part 1

• Continuous Bias Binding Instructions: Part 2

• Grainline Explained

This article was printed from Generations-Quilt-Patterns.com

Share Us

FacebookPinterestTumblrRedditX

Follow Us