Binding finishes the raw edges of a quilt. Most quilters cut 2¼–2½ in strips, fold them in half and sew them on (double-fold binding). Straight-grain binding uses less fabric; bias binding stretches around curves and wears better on edges.
How to use the Quilt Binding Calculator
- Quilt width
- Quilt length
- Strip width
- Binding type
- Fabric width
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Enter the quilt width and length, the strip width, the binding type and your fabric width.
Tips
- Measure over thin clothing with a soft tape held snug but not tight, and keep the tape level all the way round.
- Take each measurement twice; if you are between sizes, the larger size is usually the safer choice.
- Size charts vary by brand and country – check the maker’s own chart when it is available.
- For sewing projects, pre-wash fabric before cutting and buy 10% extra for shrinkage, pattern matching and mistakes.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Mixing inches and centimetres between the tape and the size chart.
- Forgetting seam and hem allowances when cutting fabric.
- Measuring an old, stretched garment instead of your body.
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Quilt width | Units: in, cm |
| Quilt length | Units: in, cm |
| Strip width | Choose one: 2 in, 2¼ in, 2½ in, 2¾ in … |
| Binding type | Choose one: Straight grain, Bias |
| Fabric width | Units: in, cm |
What each result means
- Binding length needed = 2×([Quilt width] + [Quilt length]) + 10×0.0254
- Strips across the fabric (straight) = ceil([Binding length needed]÷([Fabric width] – 2×0.0254) – 0.000001)
- Bias: square to cut (side) = sqrt([Binding length needed]×[Strip width])
Example values
How the main result changes when Quilt width changes and everything else stays at the example values above:
| Quilt width (in) | Binding length needed (in) |
|---|---|
| 30 | 230 |
| 45 | 260 |
| 60 | 290 |
| 75 | 320 |
| 90 | 350 |
| 120 | 410 |
Formula
Binding length = perimeter + 10 in for corners and joiningStraight grain: strips = ceil(binding ÷ (fabric width − 2 in)); fabric = strips × strip widthBias: fabric area = binding length × strip width; square side = √areaWorked example
Inputs — Quilt width: 60 in; Quilt length: 80 in; Strip width: 2½ in; Binding type: Straight grain; Fabric width: 42 in.
Results — Binding length needed = 290 in; Strips across the fabric (straight) = 8; Fabric needed = 20 in; Bias: square to cut (side) = 26.9 in.
Frequently asked questions
How much binding do I need?
The quilt's perimeter plus about 10 in: a 60 × 80 in quilt needs 290 in (about 8 yards) of binding.
How wide should binding strips be?
2¼–2½ in for double-fold binding on most quilts.
When should I use bias binding?
For curved or scalloped edges and for heirloom quilts where edges get heavy wear.
What formula does the Quilt Binding Calculator use?
Binding length = perimeter + 10 in for corners and joining.