Quilt Border Calculator
Calculate fabric requirements for quilt borders. Supports multiple borders, mitered corners, and corner squares with visual mockups.
Quilt Center & Borders
Quilt Center (before borders):
Border 1 (Inner):
Finished width will be 1/2" less (after seam allowances)
Border Types Explained
Straight (Butted)
How it works: Side borders sewn first, then top/bottom borders overlap them.
Pros: Easiest method, uses less fabric, fastest to sew
Cons: Corners not as elegant
Mitered (45°)
How it works: Borders sewn at 45° angle at corners, like a picture frame.
Pros: Professional look, great for stripes, elegant corners
Cons: More fabric needed, requires precision
Corner Squares
How it works: Borders end at corners with decorative squares sewn in.
Pros: Design interest, easy to sew, uses scraps
Cons: Need extra fabric, can look busy
Border Success Tips:
📏 Measuring:
- • Measure through quilt center, not edges
- • Take multiple measurements and average
- • Cut borders to measured length, not estimated
- • Press quilt top before measuring
✂️ Cutting:
- • Cut lengthwise for less stretch
- • Buy extra 1/4 yard for insurance
- • Label strips (top, bottom, left, right)
- • Match centers before pinning
🧵 Sewing:
- • Pin at center, ends, then every 3-4 inches
- • Ease in fullness if quilt has stretched
- • Press seams toward border (usually)
- • Use walking foot to prevent rippling
🎨 Design:
- • Odd number of borders looks balanced
- • Vary border widths (thin, thick, thin)
- • Repeat a color from quilt center
- • Final border should "frame" the quilt