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How far should quilt binding ends overlap for a diagonal join?
Published by Binding Desk
For square-ended double-fold binding joined with a standard 45-degree seam, overlap the two tails by one original cut-strip width. A strip cut 2¼ inches wide needs 2¼ inches of overlap even though its folded width measures only 1⅛ inches.
Leave enough loose binding to handle
Begin along a straight side with the first tail unsewn. As you return, stop before that starting point and leave a gap wide enough to lift and unfold both tails without pulling the quilt edge. Lay the tails flat, folded as they will sit on the quilt, and smooth them toward each other.
Keep an offcut from the original strip nearby. Unfold its full width and use it as a gauge for the overlap before cutting the second tail square. The 10-inch planning allowance for handling is separate from this exact overlap.
Check the geometry with the seam pinned
Unfold both ends. Put their right sides together at right angles so the overlap forms a square, then pin the intended diagonal. Open the pieces temporarily along that line. The long edges should extend in a straight line through the join, and the folded strip should reach along the quilt edge without pulling or rippling.
If the strip twists, release the pin and trace the right side of one tail back to the stitched edge. If it bows, recheck the overlap against the unfolded strip and confirm you used the diagonal that joins the two lengths.
Keep the second cut until last
Sew the diagonal with the strip open and check it once more against the quilt. Only after the fit is right, trim the extra triangle to your chosen seam allowance, press the seam open, refold and sew the remaining gap. A tucked-end finish or a pre-cut angled-tail method has different cutting instructions. Follow that method from its first step.