I tried this method, Once, didn't like it and redid it with a traditional binding, I don't mind doing the binding, to me, it means the quilt is almost done.

I think it looks great, however, I think the edges would fray more quickly than if you had binding. What do †hink?

Had never heard of finishing the edges of a quilt this way. I love to do the binding on quilts though.

This was a very common way to finish a quilt. My first three quilts had this edge. It's not that easy for me to keep it straight on a large quilt. I still use it on small quilts and projects.

would this be like finishing a birthing hole?

One more question, a quick Google search seems to suggest that some find this way of finishing to be LESS durable. One blog I found (https://www.thespruce.com/sew-knife-...inding-2821319) specifically said to only use this kind of finishing for wallhangings or small quilts. Have you really found this way of finishing to be as durable as traditional binding?[/QUOTE]

In about 1995 I bought an antique, 2-color pieced quilt appraised as from 1860's, the quilt has the knife edge for binding and it is all intact. Actually bought it for $1 at an estate sale but the quilt was in the horse barn. I washed it as any other quilt and it held up great with no issues.
Nice to know a bit of history on the method. It does make sense if the maker did not have extra fabric for binding.
Thank you for bringing up the topic.

I often make my backing much larger than my top and trim back when finished hand quilting. Depending on what size I want my binding I fold in half to the edge of the top then over the top to where ever I want it and stitch down . You can stitch in the ditch, decorative stitch or hand stitch. i hope this makes sense, easier to do than explain.

Sure sounds the same to me. I have birthed quilts many times. It's fast, secure too. And is done by machine rather than hand stitching. I allow about 1/4 inch seam along the edges, then turn the quilt right-side-out. (birthing it) After birthing I usually sew another seam around the quilt close to the edge, just to give it a finished look. Great for hangings, table mats, other small items.

My mother did this on some often washed utility quilts and they are still good. She passed away over 30 years ago. I've also used it and it works fine.

Wow. I would love to see that quilt! And, good to know that it's still in tact.


In about 1995 I bought an antique, 2-color pieced quilt appraised as from 1860's, the quilt has the knife edge for binding and it is all intact. Actually bought it for $1 at an estate sale but the quilt was in the horse barn. I washed it as any other quilt and it held up great with no issues.
Nice to know a bit of history on the method. It does make sense if the maker did not have extra fabric for binding.
Thank you for bringing up the topic.[/QUOTE]