How to Bind a Scalloped Quilt

Scalloped edges get their name from the rippled edge of a shell.

A scalloped quilt edge has a lot of small, semicircular segments that can be a challenge to finish. But it can be done with the right supplies. Binding a scalloped edge takes time, attention and bias tape, but the result is a very professional and crisp looking quilt.

Things You'll Need

• Quilt with scalloped edges
• Bias tape
• Pins
• Sewing machine, or needle and thread

Instructions

Preparing the Binding

1. Measure the length of one of each type of exposed curves, and count the number of scallops. The corner scallops are likely longer than the ones along the sides of the quilt.

2. Cut one piece of bias tape the length measured for each size.

3. Test the cut strips to be sure they reach both ends of the curve and cover the entire edge of the scallops. Make any adjustments necessary.

4. Cut more strips of bias tape, so that there is one strip for each scallop.

Binding the Quilt

1. Pin each piece of bias tape to a scallop, starting in the center and working toward the edges. Place the raw edge of the quilt between the sides of the open edge of the bias tape, so that the raw edge is completely covered.

2. Using a sewing machine, or needle and thread, straight stitch the open edge of the bias tape around the edge of each scallop.

Tips & Warnings

• Bias tape has some stretch to help work it around the curves.

• Pin any gathers or folds in the bias tape, to prevent stitches from missing sections of the tape.

• You can use a basting stitch or fusible hem tape, to prevent the bias tape from slipping as it's stitched.