We only have one more step (okay, two if you include binding) and our 2023 quilt along will be finished!
This step is going to be the quickest of the quilt along, but adding on borders to match the sashing finishes off the quilt nicely. After you add the borders, you'll just need to bind it and you'll be done and ready to use your quilt. If you don't want to add borders, you can skip this step, trim the backing and batting to match the quilt top, and bind.
Miss a month? Head to the main quilt along page.
Making the Sashing
We are going to cut border strips at 2 1/4". We will need 6 of them the width of the fabric (WOF).
Sew these strips together to create one long strip of fabric.
Starting on the sides, line up the border strip along one edge, making sure not to pull and stretch the fabric as you lay it out. Pins can help here if you prefer. Sew 1/4" along the edge of the border fabric.
Trim the border strip to match the edge of the quilt (so it matches along the top and bottom blocks).
Fold the strip back and press, then add the straight line quilting to match the sashing strips.
Repeat with the opposite side.
Now simply repeat the same steps with the top and bottom, except this time the border strips will extend all the way to the edge of the quilt.
Trim off the extra sashing and it's ready to bind!
Binding the Quilt
We use 2 1/4" strips for binding and if using the same size you will need about 1/2 yard of fabric. If you prefer a different sized binding, you may need more or less fabric.
Again, cut 6 strips 2 1/4" x WOF (if your fabric is less than 40" wide, you will need 7 strips).
Fold in half, press and attach to the quilt. If you need detailed binding instructions, check out the blog post:
And your quilt is done and ready to use!
What is next?
Now that you've learned all these free motion quilting motifs, don't forget to practice. Start with slightly bigger projects and work your way up until you are comfortable finishing any size quilt you want on your domestic sewing machine. I also encourage you to keep doodling. Doodling is a great way to improve your free motion quilting when you can't be in front of a machine. Doodle new designs you like and get comfortable with the way they move and travel before committing to them with thread and fabric. If you are looking for other small projects to work on, I recommend pillows, table runners, baby quilts, and bags. Don't be afraid to try larger projects as well. If needed, allow yourself to be a beginner and don't stress too much over the finished project. If you keep quilting you will get better.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out!
Happy Quilting,
Kimie and Missy
