What types of borders are best for panel quilts?

Binding and facing are usually the top options for panel quilts. Binding frames the entire outer edge while facing covers the raw edges on the back. Biased binding at 45 degrees is a nice look. You could also try easy patterns like bricks or squares.n

Can you quilt over the panel fabric?

Yes definitely! It basically gives your quilt an extra polished look to quilt over the entire surface including the panel. You might choose a simple all-over meandering pattern like loops and swirls. All those little stitches will firmly attach all layers together so it lasts longer. Just be a little more careful when quilting close to any printed details on the panel.n

What if the panel is thicker than the border fabric?

A fine solution is to interface or stabilizer the border pieces before sewing them to the panel. By “interface,” I mean fusible web on the back to stiffen the fabric and make it basically the same thickness all around. Then it will look smooth and sharp when you sew them together. Otherwise you might get piles or wrinkles. A fusible interface makes lighter work of it too!n