Quilt Binding Calculator

Quilt binding length is the quilt perimeter plus 10 to 12 inches for corners and joins. For a 60 by 72 inch quilt that is 276 inches, which takes 7 strips cut 2 1/2 inches wide across the fabric, or 1/2 yard. Enter your quilt size below to get strips and yardage.

How binding is worked out

Perimeter = 2 × (W + L).
Total binding length = perimeter + extra for corners and joins (12 in by default).
Strips = ceil(total ÷ usable fabric width).
Straight-grain yardage = strips × strip width ÷ 36, rounded up to the next 1/8 yd. Meters = rounded yards × 0.9144, rounded up to 0.1 m.
Bias yardage = (total × strip width ÷ usable width) × (1 + allowance) ÷ 36, rounded up to 1/8 yd.

Usable width is what is left after you trim the selvages. The fabric width presets (40 in usable for 42 to 44 in fabric, and so on) are conservative starting values; you can change them in the calculator.

Worked examples

1. Lap quilt, 60 × 72

Extra 12 in, strip 2 1/2 in, usable 40 in. Perimeter = 264 in, total = 276 in, strips = ceil(276 ÷ 40) = 7. Yardage = 7 × 2.5 ÷ 36 = 0.486, so 1/2 yd (0.5 m). With 2 1/4 in strips: 7 × 2.25 ÷ 36 = 0.4375, which is also 1/2 yd. Bias: 276 × 2.5 ÷ 40 = 17.25 in, times 1.15 = 19.84 in, ÷ 36 = 0.55 yd, so 5/8 yd.

2. Queen, 90 × 108

Perimeter = 396 in, total = 408 in, strips = ceil(408 ÷ 40) = 11. Yardage = 11 × 2.5 ÷ 36 = 0.76, so 7/8 yd (0.9 m).

Strip width and bias notes

2 1/2 in is the common cut for double-fold binding. 2 1/4 in is a popular narrower choice, often paired with thinner batting. Wider strips give a fuller edge and use more fabric.

Bias binding is cut at an angle. It stretches around curves and wears evenly, but it uses more fabric than straight-grain strips because of the angled cut and the trimming. Our bias option is an estimate based on area with an allowance you can change. Straight-grain is fine for square corners.

Working on a bed quilt? Check the size on the quilt size chart, then compare with the quilt backing calculator.

How to calculate quilt binding

Measure the quilt width and length.
Add them up as 2 × (W + L).
Add 10 to 12 inches for corners and joins.
Divide by the usable fabric width and round up to get the number of strips.
Multiply the strips by the strip width, divide by 36, and round up to the next 1/8 yard.

Frequently asked questions

How much binding do I need for a quilt?

Measure all four sides, add them up, then add 10 to 12 inches for mitered corners and joining the ends. A 60 by 72 inch quilt has a 264 inch perimeter, so you need about 276 inches of binding. Cut enough 2 1/2 inch strips to reach that length, which works out to 7 strips and 1/2 yard.

How do you calculate quilt binding yardage?

Divide the total binding length by the usable fabric width to get the number of strips, rounded up. Multiply the strips by the strip width and divide by 36 for yards, then round up to the next eighth. Seven 2 1/2 inch strips need 17.5 inches, which is 1/2 yard when rounded up.

How wide should I cut quilt binding strips?

2 1/2 inches is the common default for double-fold binding, and 2 1/4 inches is a popular narrower choice that many quilters like with thinner batting. Wider strips give a fuller binding and use more fabric. The calculator shows the yardage for both widths side by side, so you can compare before you cut.

Is bias binding different to calculate?

Yes. Bias binding is cut at an angle, which makes it stretch around curves and wear evenly, but it uses more fabric than straight-grain strips because of the angled cut and extra trimming. Our bias option works out the area you need and adds an allowance. Straight-grain binding is fine for a quilt with square corners.

Can I use this for a baby quilt or table runner?

Yes. Enter the width and length of any rectangle and you get the binding length, strips and yardage. The same method works for wall hangings, table runners and placemats. For rounded corners or an uneven shape, measure the edge with a flexible tape and add the extra length yourself.