Quilting expert Alex Anderson answers mitered border questions.
Question: Exactly what is a mitered border?
Answer: A mitered border is a border that has only three seams similar to a Y-shape (figure A). To create a mitered border, determine the quilt's border width. Hang the finished quilt top on a wall and manipulate the fabric to the desired width. Here's how:
- Measure the finished quilt top in three sections (center and sides) from top to bottom to determine the side border length.
- Take the sum of the three measurements and attain an average.
- Cut the two side borders exactly that length (figure B).
- Measure the quilt from side to side in three sections (center and sides) of the quilt with the two side borders attached to arrive at the top and bottom border length. However, a mitered border will require additional fabric. To accommodate this, measure the side border length plus the top and bottom widths, then cut the top and bottom border strips that measurement—or a bit longer.
- Cut the top and bottom borders.
- Mark a 1/4-inch dot in each corner (figure C) of the reverse side of the quilt top.
- Stitch the border strips on the four sides stopping at the 1/4-inch dot then backstitch.
- Fold the corners at a 45-degree angle (figure D) and press the crease in place.
- Pin and stitch at the fold line to complete the mitered border.
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