How to make a Double Fold Binding or French Fold Binding for Quilts

Learn to create double-fold binding tape!

Many quilters choose to bind their projects with fabric binding when making quilts or other items such as wall hangings, pot holders, mug rugs, mini quilts, and table runners. This binding helps protect the quilt from fraying due to frequent use.

Double fold or French fold binding is the traditional method for finishing a quilted project. This is one of the commonest binding techniques.  For many quilters, this is their favorite method. However, it is also possible to complete these projects using an alternative method, such as a pillowcase finish.

While double-fold quilt binding tape can be purchased in quilt and fabric shops, there are limits on the colors and widths available.  Making your own is not difficult at all and a lot cheaper than the store-bought version.

Keep in mind that it can take some time to make double-fold binding tape if you're working on a large quilt.

Learn more about making a double-fold or French binding by watching our video tutorial, or keep reading this post for our step-by-step photo tutorial.

INSTRUCTIONS to make a french binding

STEP 1: Cut the fabric into strips

The first step is deciding how wide the finished binding will be. For this tutorial, the binding width will be 1/2".

Take that measurement and multiply it by 4, so this would be 2". Next, add two quarter inch seam allowances, and that will make 2 1/2" wide strips for this example. Then, using the ruler, cutting mat, and rotary cutter, cut strips of fabric 2 1/2" wide. The number of strips needed will depend on the size of the project.

Use our handy free binding calculator to determine how much fabric is needed and how many strips to cut.

Step 2: Prepare the strips for sewing

Take two of the strips that have been cut and lay them right sides together on the sewing machine in an upside-down "L" shape at a 90-degree angle. The horizontal strip will be on top of the other piece. 

A diagonal line of stitching will be sewn from the top edge of the upper left corner to the lower right corner, where the fabrics overlap.

If desired, a pencil and ruler can be used to draw a 45-degree angle on the wrong side of the fabric where the stitch line will be. It is also possible to sew without drawing the line. Do what is comfortable.

Step 3: sew and cut the seam allowance

Sew the two pieces of fabric together on a diagonal line with matching thread.

Stitch enough strips together in the same manner until it is long enough to bind the project.

Small strips will need to be joined together until the total length of the sewn strip is long enough to go around all of the edges of the project with extra length to join the binding.

Once the strips have been sewn together, the next step is to use the scissors or rotary cutter to cut a 1/4-inch seam allowance at the stitching.

step 4: Iron the seams and the binding

Take the long strip to the ironing board.

Iron the seams open to reduce the bulk due to layers of fabric in the binding.

Turn the strip over and iron the seam neatly on the front of the fabric.

Next, fold the strip together lengthwise and iron a crisp middle crease.

The binding is now ready to be added to the quilted project!

We hope you enjoyed learning how to make a double-fold binding. For tutorials on sewing the binding to your quilt, visit our Quick Quilt Binding or Traditional Quilt Binding pages.