How wide should binding strips be?

For double-fold binding (most common), cut strips 6–6.5cm wide. This folds to create approximately 1cm finished binding. For single-fold binding, 4cm strips give about 1cm finished binding.

How do I join binding strips?

Join strips at 45-degree angles (diagonal seams) for a smooth transition. Place two strips right sides together at right angles, draw a diagonal line, sew along it, trim to 0.6cm, press open.

How much extra binding do I need?

Add 25cm to the perimeter for joining the strips, negotiating corners, and overlapping the start/finish. This calculator includes this extra automatically.

SewCalcs

Quilt Binding Calculator — Strips & Fabric

Calculate binding strip quantity and fabric needed to finish your quilt edges.

Quilt Width

Quilt Length

Binding Strip Width

6.5cm for double-fold

Fabric Width

Width of binding fabric

Fabric Price (optional)

How We Calculate This

Binding length = quilt perimeter + 25cm for joining. Strips are cut across the fabric width and joined.

The formula

Perimeter = 2 × (Width + Length)

Binding length = Perimeter + 25cm

Strips needed = ceil(Binding length ÷ Fabric width)

Fabric = Strips × Strip width

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before cutting or purchasing fabric.