Scallop Binding Tutorial

How to Make a Scallop Binding

If you’re looking for a sweet, classic finish that instantly elevates a quilt, a scalloped edge is such a beautiful option. It adds softness, charm, and a little wow factor—without being overly complicated.

A few years ago, I stumbled upon a quilt shop going out of business and ended up buying all sorts of items (and tons of fabric of course!) One of the finds was a Large Scallop Radial Ruler by Katie Lane Quilts. It took me long enough to try it out, but I sure am glad I did!

Today I’m sharing exactly how I added a scalloped edge to this quilt, including the ruler I used, the math behind spacing the scallops, and my favorite tips for binding those curves.

When to Add a Scalloped Edge

Scalloped edges are added after your quilt is fully quilted but before it has binding.

The Ruler I Used

I used the Large Scallop Radial Rule by Katie Lane Quilts, which is designed specifically for scalloped quilt edges. This ruler allows you to create scallops ranging from 6" to 10", giving you flexibility depending on your quilt size and the look you want. But there are several different kinds of scallop rulers in existence, so you’ll want to check their directions in case anything varies. The Quilt in a Day scallop ruler is very similar and can be found here. The ruler I used unfortunately is only sold on ebay now (at least what I could fine).

Step 1: Measure Your Quilt Side

Start by measuring one side of your quilt.

• My quilt measured 42" wide.
• Subtract 4" from that measurement to allow for the corner angles.

That gave me a working measurement of 38".

Step 2: Choose Your Scallop Size

Next, decide what size scallop you’d like to use.

I chose 8" scallops.

• 38" ÷ 8" = 4 full scallops
• That left me with one smaller scallop measuring 6"

This smaller scallop will be placed in the center of each side of the quilt, which keeps everything looking balanced and intentional. Hopefully you’ll have more agreeable measurements and be able to fit the right number perfectly! But if not, you’re in good company :)

Step 3: Mark the Corners

Using the scallop ruler as a guide, draw a 45-degree line in each corner of the quilt.

I marked mine with chalk, which makes adjustments stress-free.

Step 4: Test the Scallop Layout with Pins

Before marking anything permanently, it’s a good idea to test your spacing.

• Use the ruler to measure each scallop.
• Place pins along one side of the quilt where each scallop will fall.

This lets you visually confirm that you like the spacing and proportions before committing.

Once you’re happy with the layout, you’re ready to mark.

Step 5: Mark the Scallops

Using a pencil or quilt marking tool:

1. Line up the ruler on your marked corner line.
2. Trace the scallop curve.
3. I recommend marking one scallop on the left side, then one on the right side, working toward the center.

This method ensures the smaller middle scallop ends up perfectly centered (if you need a smaller scallop).

For my quilt:

• 2 scallops fit on the left
• 2 scallops fit on the right
• The 6" scallop fit beautifully in the middle, joining the two sides

Repeat this process for all four sides of the quilt.

Step 6: Cut the Scallops

Once everything is marked, carefully cut along your traced scallop lines using sharp scissors.

Step 7: Bind the Scalloped Edge

For scalloped quilts, bias binding is key. Bias binding has more stretch, which makes it perfect for curves.

When sewing the binding on:

• Gently curve the binding around each scallop and dip
• No tucking is required
• The bias stretch does all the work for you

A helpful tip:
👉 Leave your needle in the down position as you rotate the quilt around the dips of each scallop. This allows you to pivot and curve your binding around.

A Darling Finishing Touch

Scalloped edges take a little extra time, but the result is absolutely worth it. They add such a darling, heirloom-quality detail to a quilt and are especially lovely on baby quilts, wall hangings, and special keepsake pieces.

If you’ve never tried a scalloped edge before, I hope this encourages you to give it a go—you might just fall in love with this timeless finish. 💛

The quilt in this tutorial is the Wind Blossom Quilt design by Lisa of Wild Plum Lane. Fabric used is Blush ‘n Butterscotch from Riley Blake Designs and Pure Solids from Art Gallery Fabrics. The quilt was gifted to my son’s 2nd grade teacher as a baby gift.

Happy quilting!