Quilt Binding Calculator
Built by Johnny Alto · free, no sign-up · updated July 26, 2026
Enter your quilt's finished size to find how much binding you need. The calculator adds the perimeter, allows extra for turning the corners and joining strips on the diagonal, then works out how many width-of-fabric strips to cut and the yardage to buy.
Cut0strips (width of fabric)
Fabric needed0yards
Binding length0inches total
Includes about 12 inches of extra length for mitered corners and diagonal joins. 2.5 inch strips make standard double-fold binding for quarter-inch seams. Round fabric up to the next quarter yard.
How the binding calculation works
Binding wraps the whole outside edge of the quilt, so start with the perimeter: twice the width plus twice the length. Then add about a foot of extra length to cover the fabric lost turning mitered corners and joining strips together on a diagonal seam. That total is how many inches of binding you need to make.
Binding is cut in strips across the width of the fabric, usually 42 usable inches each. Divide the binding length by that width and round up to get the number of strips. Multiply the number of strips by the strip width and you have the fabric that gets used, which the calculator converts to yardage.
What strip width should you use?
Two and a half inches is the standard for double-fold binding sewn with a quarter-inch seam, giving a full, durable edge. Some quilters prefer 2.25 inches for a slightly tighter finish, or go wider for a bolder border. Pick your strip width first, since it changes how much fabric the strips consume.
Recommended gear
Cut and sew a clean binding
Frequently asked questions
How much binding do I need for a quilt?
Add up the quilt's perimeter, twice the width plus twice the length, then add about 12 inches for corners and joins. Divide by your fabric width to get the number of strips.
How wide should I cut binding strips?
Two and a half inches is standard for double-fold binding with a quarter-inch seam. Narrower strips at 2.25 inches give a tighter finish; wider strips make a bolder edge.
How many 2.5 inch strips for a quilt?
For a 60 by 80 inch quilt the perimeter plus corners is about 292 inches, which is seven strips cut across a 42 inch width, or roughly half a yard of fabric.
How much fabric for quilt binding?
Multiply the number of strips by the strip width. Seven 2.5 inch strips is about 17.5 inches of fabric, so half a yard is plenty for most throw and twin quilts.
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This calculator gives estimates for planning only; always confirm against your own measurements and species research. Some links are to our buying guides, which contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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