About Borders

This top just cries for a border.

I am trying to catch up and finish all older projects. I set myself some parameters. I want to use only scrap fabrics, not cutting yardage. The blocks are composed of 4" and 2 1/2" squares.

One row of 4" squares doesn't seem to be enough of a frame.

Two rows of 4" squares is too much.

One row of each 4" and 2 1/2" squares is just right.

Generally these are the guidelines I follow.

·        Keep in mind: Measure the bed or wall, if possible, to be sure that the quilt will fit. The quilt will probably finish smaller than the planned size because of the quilting.

·        Make the corners pretty

·        Total width of border usually looks in proportion to blocks if borders and blocks are the same size

·        Block borders

            Change colors in every other block

            Use separator strips

            Border block different value than center blocks

·        Look at the blocks for border shapes

·        All borders do not need to be the same size

·        Consider making every corner different or make opposite corners that match

·        If you want to use pieces of a different size than those in the quilt, make them smaller

·        Borders are constructed of 'units.'  To make borders that fit, each unit size must be compatible with the block size (or previous border) in the quilt.