Thread: Question on How to Square Up Top and Add Borders

Hi, I am currently working on a Lynne Hagmeier and Jenny Doan quilt, "Twirls and Swirls".

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcj9IHtwL_s

I want to add 2 borders, one thin (2" teal) and a (5 1/2") outside one. My question is, I went to measure to find out how long to make the inner first border, and my top is not perfectly square. The measurements are 58 3/4", 57 3/4", 58 3/4", and 58 1/2".

What measurement do I use? The smallest, the longest, or an average of all 4. If I do the latter, none of the lengths will be true and all 4 sides will have to be "eased" in.

OR, should I trim the top to 57 3/4" all the way around, since there is a little "play" at the outer edge of the top?

Thanks in advance, and here's a picture, because I know a lot of (us) like to see pictures!!

Thank you Prism. You make is so simple and logical.

I was thinking in terms of making it perfectly square, all the way around. Now I see that it's not necessary.

Good advice from Prism. I think your quilt top is adorable.

Originally Posted by Tartan

If it was my top, I would trim it to the 57 3/4 since you won't be cutting off any of the pattern. I like my quilt you to be as square as possible before adding borders. I find trying to ease in borders give me wavy borders when quilted.

normally, i'd say do what prism describes, but in the case of this quilt top, i believe tartan has a great idea for you

No matter how you handle it, it is really a cute top.

You can sew your (2) borders together then add them as one unit instead of adding each one at a time. I would trim/ square up before adding the border if it were me, since its not huge, difficult. But taking the middle measurement & easing in the sides is an option. Nice quilt!