Simple Borders for Quilts – Easy Quilt Edge Ideas and Tutorials

All You Need to Know About Quilt Borders

Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just starting out, adding borders is an important part of finishing your quilt. A border can help frame and finish the look of your quilt, tie the whole design together, and even add a pop of contrasting color. But with so many border options and styles to choose from, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. In this article, I’ll break down the different types of borders, tools and techniques for applying them, and share some tips from my own experience quilting.

Types of Borders

There are several different border styles you can choose from to complement your quilt design. Here are some of the most common:

1. Straight-set border: This is the simplest border, where rectangular strips of fabric are sewn straight across the edges of the quilt. Straight-set borders work well for more modern quilt styles.
2. Mitered border: For a more polished look, mitered corners create a continuous border that wraps around the quilt. They involve careful cutting and sewing of diagonal seams.
3. Binding border: Applying binding around the perimeter of the quilt provides a clean, finished edge. You can use a solid color binding or one that picks up colors within the quilt design.

There are also other unique border styles like notch borders, pieced borders, and foundation piecing for intricate patterned borders. Play around with different textures, prints, and scale too based on your quilt’s design elements.

Tools and Techniques

Once you’ve chosen your border style, there are a few essential tools and techniques to know:

1. Rulers, cutting mats, and rotary cutters are a must for getting neat, accurate border strips. I personally like using 6″ x 24″ rulers for long strip cutting.
2. A 1/4″ foot and thread for your sewing machine helps you seam allowance consistency when sewing on borders. Always press seams to one side as you go.
3. For mitered corners, make diagonal 1/4″ cuts up to but not through the corner stitching line using a quilting square or ruler as a guide. Then fold the fabrics at the cut and press for sharp corners.

Take your time pinning and easing fullness as needed to avoid puckers. For binding, attach it with a 1/4″ seam then fold to the back and stitch in the ditch. A walking foot can also help feed thick layers smoothly.

Tips from Experience

Over the years I’ve learned a few lessons the hard way when it comes to borders. Here are some tips that may save you headaches:

1. Cut border strips a few inches longer than needed then trim to size after sewing to allow for variations in your piecing/measurements.
2. Kind of like hemming pants, leave border sewing until the end when your quilt is completely pieced and quilted to avoid getting in the way.
3. For intricate pieced borders, do the math and cut fabric into smaller pieces in advance rather than one giant piece that’s hard to handle.

I’ve also faced situations where my borders were too skinny or bland looking for the scale of my quilt. More is better in that case. You can always trim down an oversized border but can’t add more fabric once it’s sewn on. Speaking of sewing on, don’t get too hasty and double check all sides are even before committing.

Proper planning pays off when working with borders. Once you have the right tools and know different techniques, you’ll be cruising with confidence no matter what border style you go for. Just take your time and press as you work for the neatest results.

Finishing Touches

After sewing on your borders, don’t forget about adding some extra special final flourishes:

• Apply a custom label with the quiltmaker’s name, date made, and any meaning behind the fabrics used.
• Quilt or tie your quilt to finish it. This brings all elements together for a cohesive look.
• Edge the back of the quilt with binding too if desired for a fully polished appearance.

Throwing your hard work in the washing machine afterward for a wash and fluff brings new life and dimension too. From there, your quilt is ready to gift, display, or snuggle up with for years to come. Isn’t that what it’s all about?

Whether you’re new to quilting or a seasoned pro, I hope these tips gave you some guidance on tackling borders without stress. Don’t be afraid to experiment – that’s how you discover your own favorite tricks. Happy quilting!

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Quilt Border

FAQ

1. What are quilt borders?

   Borders basically surround the outer edge of a quilt or throw blanket. They tie the whole design together and finish off the look.

   

2. Why add borders?

   Borders help stabilize and support the quilt layers. They also can make a small quilt design appear larger. Basically borders finish off a quilt and make it appear more polished.

3. What kinds of borders are there?

   There are many different types of borders you can choose from. Some possibilities include plain colored strips, pieced borders made of patches or blocks, or patterned fabric borders with pictures or prints. You can get creative!

4. How wide should borders be?

   Most quilt experts suggest borders range from 2 to 6 inches wide depending on the overall size of the quilt. Bigger quilts need wider borders to balance out the design. Nevertheless, the border width is sort of up to personal taste.

5. Can borders be pieced or solid?

   You can design borders out of pieced fabric or use a solid chunk of material. Maybe try mixing up pieced and solid sections for visual interest. The options are seemingly endless! Borders offer a fun way to showcase different materials.

   

6. What’s the best way to add corners to the borders?

   For neat, professional looking corners, place a 90-degree ruler over the quilt layers and trim off the excess fabric prior to sewing. The corners will line up nicely. On the other hand, some quilters prefer to hand stitch mitered corners for a personal touch.

7. Do I need to quilt the borders?

   Most experts say yes, it’s a good idea to quilt or stitch within the borders like the rest of the quilt top. This keeps the layers from shifting. somehow my niece’s borders always puff up unless she evenly stitches them down like the center of the quilt. Food for thought!

8. Any other tips?

   Measure twice, cut once when making borders! You don’t want to wreck a beautiful quilt top by cutting the borders too short. Is that fair? Take your time and you’re sure to love how professional your finished blanket appears.