Beautifully bind a patchwork quilt

Have you sewn a beautiful patchwork quilt? The last step in the process is to finish the edges with a binding strip, which adds durability and is easy to replace. This guide will show you how simple it is.

• Bindings are usually narrow — about 1.5 centimetres (3/4 inch) — but can be wider.
• The best way to bind is to use a double strip of fabric. Cut the binding six times the required finished width (about nine centimetres or 3 1/2 inches), joining the strips where necessary to give the length and width of the quilt plus 10 centimetres (four inches).
• You can cut bias strips to make mitred corners easier to achieve.

• With the binding folded lengthwise, position it along one end of the quilt from edge to edge. Stitch through all layers about one centimetre (1/2 inch) from the quilt's edge.
• Bring the binding around to the back of the quilt and slip-stitch it to the backing. Bind the other end of the quilt in the same way.
• Bind the sides of the quilt in a similar fashion, but leave the binding extending at least 1.5 centimetres (3/4 inch) beyond the ends. Fold extensions over the ends, then turn down the binding and slip-stitch into place.

• Patchwork blocks can be separated from each other with fabric strips or sashing to increase the quilt size or add more variety to the pattern.
• Small square patches can be introduced at intersecting corners for additional flair.
• Borders around a quilt are a common decorative and practical addition. They frame the patchwork design and add width and length to the quilt. Frequently more than one border is added: a narrow border using a high-contrast colour, and then a wider border from a fabric in the quilt. If a solid-colour material is used for a border, it's usually decorated with additional (and often elaborate) quilting designs.

Quilts require a large amount of dedication to create and are often thoughtful gifts or treasured family heirlooms. You owe it to your quilt to bind it properly, extending its life and enhancing its beauty.