Quilt Binding Formula

Binding wraps the raw edges of a quilt. To size it, find the perimeter, add overlap for joining and corners, then work out how many fabric strips you need.

Strips = (P + 10) ÷ Wᵒ

What the terms mean

Symbol Meaning
Strips Number of strips needed
P Quilt perimeter, in inches
10 Overlap and corner allowance
Wᵒ Usable width of fabric, about 40 in

Worked example

A 60 by 80 in quilt has a 280 in perimeter: (280 + 10) ÷ 40 = 7.25, so cut 8 strips.

Round up always. Round the strip count up to a whole number, then a little more for safety. Running short on binding mid-quilt is a headache.

See the Binding Calculator and the Quilt Size Chart.

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