Originally Posted by Marcy J.
I have two pieced quilts that need borders. How to I determine how much fabric I need for 4" finished borders. One is 60" x 72" and one is 42" x 60".
It depends on whether you want to piece the borders, or cut from one piece of fabric on the length of grain.
For cutting on the length of grain, take the longest measurement, add the width of the border twice plus a couple of inches for fudge factor. eg 72 + 4 + 4 + 2 = 82 inches.
If you don't mind them being pieced, take the width of the fabric and subtract the width of the border (to allow for diagonal joint). Count how many pieces you will need for each side. eg I count on fabric being about 40 inches usable. 40 - 4 = 36". for the 60 x 72 you will need two for each of top and bottom, and you might get away with two for each of the side, if you put the sides on first. You will need to measure.
For the 42 x 60, measure your fabric, you might be able to use on strip on the top and bottom. If not, you will need two for each side and should have enough to attached to the ends of the top and bottom.