nycquilter

Whatever way works best for you. Sometimes, I even apply the borders like pieces in a log cabin. Seems to take a tad less fabric which can be a good thing when you are working from your stash. Plus, even if there are rules, rules are made to be broken (according to my father!).

MadQuilter

I tend to put the sides on first, then top and bottom. However, it is not a rule.

jmoore

I generally do sides first...unless a pattern states otherwise.

youngduncan

The only "rule" I've ever been told about quilting is to do what makes you happy with a great result. However, that said, I usually put the sides on first and then the top and bottom. It takes a little less fabric, and it seems to be easier to press. No, I don't know why it's easier. It just is. Do whatever makes you happiest.

Wanabee Quiltin

I don't think there is a rule about borders, but I pretty much add my side borders first and then the top and bottom. I measure through the middle of the quilt top before cutting my border, never measure the sides where you will attach the border. My borders lay nice and flat, no problems with them ever. I did read the Bonnie Hunter article about borders and that is pretty much how I learned in my quilting class. It works so I never changed my way of doing it.

ube quilting

My habit is to do the sides first and then top and bottom. When you hold the quilt up it looks columns on each side and a foundation on the bottom and roof on the top.
peace

carolynjo

I usually put the top and bottom on first and then the sides.

klswift

If you are going to miter the corners, it really doesn't matter. Same if you are putting in corner blocks. If you are just putting the borders on all the way across, I prefer to add the sides first and then do the top and bottom simply because I like the look of a complete line at the top. That is my preference on a quilt that I am making. For the same reason, you should do what you prefer on the quilt you are making! Rules are often silly.