Give Your Quilt That Special Edge With Prairie Point Binding

Are you looking for a different way to finish your quilt other than simple binding? Or, have you ever thought your quilt would look wonderful with folded fabric prairie points, but you didn't quite know how to add them to your quilt? Read on to find out that prairie point binding is not as tricky as it looks, and it's especially easy with our 10 step method for attaching prairie points!

Let's start by making prairie points

There are many different ways to make prairie points, but here are two popular methods using squares. To determine the size of the square required, start by figuring out how high you would like the finished prairie points to be. Then, use this simple formula to calculate the size of the squares: finished height x 2 + 1/2". For example, for finished points 1" high, multiply 1" by 2 = 2, then add 1/2" = 2 1/2" square.

Centerfold prairie points

These prairie points bring the open folds to the center of the point. They can then be overlapped in alternate positions or placed all in the same direction. Your choice of overlapping depends entirely on your taste and the look you are after. 

To make centerfold prairie points, fold your square in half, right sides of the fabric out. Press with an iron, then bring the folded corners to meet in the center to create a triangle.

Nesting prairie points

This style allows you to nest the points inside each other. To make simply fold a square into a half triangle and then again into a quarter triangle. Press with an iron.

Attaching prairie points to your quilt in 10 easy steps

Step 1.

Prairie points should be attached to the quilt after it has been quilted, but be sure to leave 1.5" un-quilted around the edge of the quilt.

Step 2.

Trim the quilt sandwich, making sure edges are squared up.

Step 3.

Fold the backing away from the edge and pin to keep it out of the way. Prairie points are sewn to the quilt top and batting only.

Step 4.

Working along one side at a time, align the raw edge of the quilt with the raw edge of the prairie points. Adjust the points into position to create even spacing. Pin into place.

Step 5.

The corner points should sit next to each other without overlapping.

Step 6.

Sew the raw edge of the prairie points to the edge of the quilt and batting using a quarter-inch seam.

Step 7.

Trim batting at the corners to remove excess bulk.

Step 8.

Turn your row of prairie points outwards pushing the seam towards the back

Step 9.

Finger press backing 1/4" under, and pin into place to cover the seam stitching.

Step 10.

Blind stitch the back down. And that's it. You're done!

Now you know how to make and attach prairie point binding you can add these decorative points to everything. Don't just use them on quilts, you can also add them to table runners, pillows or even as a fun edge to a skirt or pajama bottoms.

What will you use prairie points for? Let us know how you've used prairie points in your projects!