How to Corner Quilts

Advanced quilters can miter several layers of a border.

Finishing a quilt with mitered corners allows the edges to meet at a 45 degree angle. Though there are a number of techniques for finishing the corners of a quilt top, mitering the corners is a common method for intermediate to advanced quilters which achieves a uniquely clean final effect. According to master quilter Nancy Murty, mitering is particularly effective when working with stripes or other prints. Beginners to the technique can gain experience connecting strips of fabric on a bias before attempting to corner a quilt.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Sewn quilt top
• Bordering fabric
• Square measuring board
• Rotary cutter
• Sewing pins
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Chalk
• Iron
• Pinking shears

Instructions

1. Measure the dimensions of the quilt, adding six inches to the length of each measurement to ensure adequate fabric. Lay the bordering fabric on the measuring board and cut to the desired width and measured length. Fold one strip in half, and mark the center point with a pin.

2. Lay the top of the bordering fabric on the corresponding side of the quilt, matching the centers. Pin into place and sew onto the quilt. Repeat with an adjacent side of the quilt and remove the pins. The corners of the border should have several inches of overlap to allow the mitering technique.

3. Use the measuring board and sewing chalk to mark a 45 degree angle at the corner of the border, where the strips overlap. Carefully fold the corner of one fabric strip at this angle, ironing into place to form a crease.

4. Fold the other strip of fabric away from the first mitered edge at a 45 degree angle and fold into place. Carefully pin the tops of the fabric together, using the measuring board a second time to ensure the 45 degree angle is clean, adjusting the ironed creases as necessary.

5. Fold the corner of the quilt back over, and pin the mitered corners together on the backside of the fabric. Sew into place and trim the excess fabric using pinking shears. Repeat the mitering technique when attaching strips to the remaining two sides and three corners of the quilt top.

References

• Quilt University: Mitering Borders
• Bee Creative Studios: Mitered Corners