SeeMyQuilt
Free calculator · Finishing

Bias binding calculator

For quilts with curved or scalloped edges. Enter the quilt size to get the square of fabric to cut continuous bias binding from.

Cut a square27" × 27"
  • Makes about 252" of 2 1/2" bias binding
  • Buy 3/4 yd of fabric
  • Fits across one width of fabric

How it is calculated

A square of fabric makes a length of bias binding equal to its area divided by the strip width. So the side of the square is the square root of the binding length times the strip width.

The calculator adds 12" to the perimeter for corners and joining, rounds the square up and adds 1" for the seams of the continuous-bias method.

Questions

When do I need bias binding?

Only for curved edges, scallops or rounded corners. Straight-edged quilts can use straight-grain binding, which takes less fabric.

Is bias binding more durable?

The threads cross the fold at an angle, so wear is spread over many threads. Some quilters use it on heavily used quilts for that reason.

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