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Top 13 Free Quilt Border Ideas That Will Make Your Quilt Stand Out (+7 Bonus Patterns For Sale)

A quilt’s border is a decorative strip that frames the quilt’s design. Borders are the finishing touch of your masterpiece. Although our attention is initially pulled to the quilt’s primary pattern, our gaze soon wanders to the quilt border designs.

Quilt borders come in a wide range of styles and colors. Choosing a border quilt can enhance the look of your quilt. There is nothing wrong with using basic borders, but why not spice things up?! Stand out and try these border ideas we compiled for you:

Free Quilt Border Patterns – Top Picks

1. Free Quilt Border Pattern: Diamond Star Squares

free quilt pattern - Diamond Star Squares Quilt Border by how stuff works
Designer: Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

If you wished to find a diamond on the stars last night, then you’ve come to the right page because this Diamond Star quilt is yours to keep! This border pattern is designed to elevate the look of your quilt as simply as possible. Its geometric approach gives the strips the stylish touch of a modern look yet the satisfying symmetry of a traditional way.

Using plain fabric pieces with this pattern would create a classic masterpiece. Bring the quilt of your dreams to life with this pieced quilt border idea from the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

2. Free Quilt Border Pattern: Pioneer Braid

free quilt border pattern - Pioneer Braid Quilt by Quiltville
Designer: Bonnie K Hunter of Quiltville

If you’re looking for intricate borders to elevate the look of your quilt, recreating the Pioneer Braid by Quiltville will surely redefine your style. This geometric pattern seemingly weaves scrappy fabrics together to create a sophisticated version of a chevron border. It intentionally observes the element of space to produce an optical illusion that will keep your eyes amused.

On top of that, this modern quilt border idea creates a well-played color values, giving an impression of an abstract masterpiece. It works well with blocks that use the flying geese technique. It may look complicated to recreate, but you’ll surely nail this project with patience and passion!

3. Free Quilt Border Pattern: Eight-Pointed Star

free quilt border pattern - Eight Pointed Star Quilt Border by how stuff works
Designer: Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

If you can’t decide whether you want a star block or a floral design, just have them and recreate the Eight-Pointed Star Quilt Border by Editors of Publications International, Ltd. This captivating free quilt border pattern blooms with beauty, as the combination of light and dark values makes them twinkle from afar.

The contrasting hues give their shape depth, elevating the simplicity of its visuals. Line them up on a strip or make square blocks out of them. Either way, you’ll find yourself staring at a quilt that seems to dance on the plainness of your walls. It’s chic, stylish, and easy to recreate. Truly, a must-have!

4. Free Quilt Border Pattern: Ribbon Border

Whether you’re quilting for a Halloween baby or stitching a new piece for the spooky season, framing your quilt with ribbon borders will make it look extra special. Lynn’s interesting pattern assembles Half-square triangles together to create an illusion of an actual ribbon running around the quilt. It alternates light and dark fabric pieces to achieve that three-dimensional effect you see when you look at it from afar.

Pro tip from Lynn: use a Bloc-Loc ruler to trim the fabrics in the perfect size before you make Y-squares. Linearly stitch the blocks, and voila! You got yourself a ribbon border!

5. Free Quilt Border Pattern: Country Paradise

free quilt pattern - Country Paradise Quilt by Denise Russell for Blank Quilting
Designer: Denise Russell for Blank Quilting

There’s nothing as dreamy as living somewhere far from the busy life in the city. So, if you’re looking for a quilt that will remind you of the beauty of the countryside, then the closest pattern you could recreate is the one they call “paradise”.

Denise Russell worked together with Blank Quilting to frame a beautiful scenic panel with two festive borders: the inner border is made of pinwheel blocks, while the outer border is made of curvy diamonds that use printed fabric pieces. Such great borders for panel quilts. You may hang it as wall decor or use it as a lap quilt. Either way, it will be a fun piece to recreate as an advanced beginner!

6. Free Quilt Border Pattern: Autumn Lattice Quilt

free quilt tutorial - Autumn Lattice Quilt by Slice of pi quilts
Designer: Laura of Slice of Pi Quilts

If fabric weaving sounds like a fun project to stitch this Fall, then you would enjoy recreating the Autumn Lattice Quilt. Of all the ideas featured today, this pattern stands out because of its unique way of putting the fabric pieces together. The outer border and the center blocks are connected with openly woven strips that are quite tricky to do.

Each strip is laid out at an angle of 45 degrees and has to be secured in place so it’ll be easier to accomplish. Indeed, this piece is tedious to make, even for an advanced beginner. But, if you love having a rare piece on your wall, do it and give your all!

7. Free Quilt Border Pattern: Checkerboard Border Quilt

Checkerboard Border Quilt - free quilt pattern
Designer: It’s Sew Emma for Fat Quarter Shop

Geometric bliss awaits with this creation by It’s Sew Emma! The Checkerboard Border quilt pattern is perfect for your favorite nook with its geometric intricacy which not only captivates the eye but also brings a contemporary twist to any room.

Whether you’re a quilting novice or an expert, this pattern promises a delightful and stylish quilting adventure.

8. Free Quilt Border Pattern: Classic & Vintage Ribbon Border Quilt

Classic & Vintage Ribbon Border Quilt - free quilt pattern
Designer: Fat Quarter Shop

Tie a ribbon of memories using the Ribbon Border Classic & Vintage Quilt Block pattern by Fat Quarter Shop. This 12.5″ x 12.5″ quilt block featuring an intricate pattern will surely wrap up your attention by its design that mimics the graceful flow of ribbons.

A great gift, wrap up your loved ones with this amazing qulting project!

9. Free Quilt Border Pattern: Chatelaine Quilt Border

Chatelaine Quilt Border - free quilt pattern
Designer: Rose Johnston of Thread Bare Creations

If you’re a beginner quilter and are looking for simple quilting projects then worry no more because the Chatelaine Free Bow Sampler Quilt is here for you! Designed by Rose Johnston, this quilt pattern measuring 77 1⁄2” x 97 1⁄2” features a scrappy checkerboard border adorned with delightful baby pinwheels in each corner.

These elements not only frame the quilt’s blocks but also add a subtle, yet captivating, touch of sophistication.

10. Free Quilt Border Pattern: Twisted Ribbon

Twisted Ribbon Quilt Border - free quilt pattern
Designer: Lorrie Taylor for Grand Quilt Guild

Discover the magic of contrast with Lorrie Taylor’s quilt border design! This easy-level masterpiece offers a delightful experience for novices and seasoned crafters alike.

The design’s striking color contrasts not only highlight the unique patterns but also infuse a lively, spirited ambiance into your home making it the perfect baby quilt project for new parents out there.

11. Free Quilt Border Pattern: Garden Trellis Border

Garden Trellis Border - free quilt pattern
Designer: APQS

Are you looking for a quilting project that offers not one, but a number of design choices? Then with Angela Huffman’s “Garden Trellis” border designs, you’ll surely trellis your way to quilting!

Whether you’re crafting a cozy throw or a king-size masterpiece, these patterns adapt effortlessly and are available in various sizes to suit your project. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned quilters, this design brings out a touch of nature’s symmetry to your quilt with its interlacing lines and floral hints.

12. Free Quilt Border Pattern: Let’s Party Border

Let’s Party Border - free border quilt pattern
Designer: Denise Russel of Pieced Brain

If you’re looking for ways to brighten your homes, then look no further because the Let’s Party Border quilt by Denise Russel of Pieced Brain is now here! This easy-level pattern weaves together a symphony of vibrant reds, royal blues, and sunny yellows, that is the perfect way to showcase your creativity.

With a size of 58″ x 70″ this is perfect as a snuggle companion or as a splash of color in your living space.

13. Free Quilt Border Pattern: Easy Diamond

Diamonds will surely be the girl’s bestfriend with this free and easy diamond border quilt pattern from Buzzing and Bumbling. Highlighting vivid red diamonds that pop against a delicate cream backdrop adorned with subtle floral patterns, this project is perfect for beginners.

Ideal choice for women of all ages who cherish beauty in their creations, its diamond motif is a timeless symbol of elegance.

BONUS Quilt Border Patterns For Sale from Online Shops

1. Just For Fall Border Pattern (PDF Printable Pattern For Sale)

Just For Fall Border Pattern - instant download
Designer: Marita Portschy of Quilts Off The Farm

Fall in love with the majestic beauty of autumn with the quilt made just for it. Marita Portschy’s Just For Fall pattern highlights an elegant panel of everything that reminds you of this season: sunset palette, falling leaves, a basket of orange pumpkins, and a couple of songbirds sitting on a branch.

The dark, wooden background made the colors more vibrant. On top of that, the borders framing the image brought a festive feel with its playful flying geese pattern. It’s affordable and easy to recreate as a beginner. Of course, you would love to have this in your room!

2. Woodland Creatures Border Patterns (Downloadable Pattern For Sale)

Woodland Creatures Border Patterns
Designer: Teresa Kidd of The Blue Door Studio Co

Fall into the rabbit hole and discover a new world with Rosemary Makhan’s Woodland Creatures. Each block of this magical quilt features whimsical fauna and floral characters that will leave you in awe every time. The way the vines crawl around the borders invites your eyes to wander on the pitch-black background, where the beauty of blooming flowers meets the charm of forest animals.

Looking closely at the fabric used, you’ll see a seemingly embossed, wavy pattern. Though dainty, it brings elegance to the visual value of the quilt, making it an ideal addition to your home.

3. The Four Seasons Quilt Border (PDF Downloadable Pattern For Sale)

If you’re looking for border ideas only, you might as well choose a versatile pattern that looks lovely all year round. Designed by Judy Craddock, The Four Seasons Quilt Border is the sum of the Spring, Summer, Winter, and Autumn quilt blocks. It features a bold floral flame that blooms elegantly on an evening-hued background.

The embossed details on the fabric used create a tactile effect that feels luxurious yet cozy. On top of that, the vibrant hues gave life to the quilt when black and white dominated the space. This is suited for quilters of all skill levels.

4. Simply Cool Easy Border Pattern (Digital Downloadable Pattern For Sale)

Simply Cool Easy Border Pattern - etsy
Designer: Diana Beaubien of Pleasant Valley Creations

Quilt the easy breezy way with Diana Beaubien Simply Cool easy border design! Ideal for novice quilters, this pattern features a variety of size choices such as the cozy Crib (44″ x 59″), charming Throw (59″ x 74″), Twin/Full (74″ x 89″), luxurious Queen (89″ x 104″), and regal King (104″ x 104″).

Diana’s pattern is a scrappy quilter’s dream, allowing you to create any combination you want. Let Simply Cool serve as your blank canvas to create a quilt that is as unique as you are!

5. Random Borders Quilt Pattern (Downloadable Pattern For Sale)

Random Borders Quilt Pattern - etsy
Designer: Laureen of Tourmaline Thyme Quilts

Get ready for a blast of colour and sophisticated pattern with this latest work by Laureen of Tourmaline Thyme Quilts! This quilt measures 85” x 85” which is perfect for intermediate quilters who are looking for a challenge.

Featuring a dynamic array of flying geese, half square triangles, and bold zigzags ,the design plays with various shapes and colors, bringing a rush of energy into any space.

6. Hearts and Loops Border Quilt Pattern (PDF Printable Pattern For Sale)

Hearts and Loops Border Quilt Pattern - etsy
Designer: Melinda of Gulf Coast Quilting

Unleash your charm as a minimalist chic with the creation of Melinda of Gulf Coast Quilting! At a height of 3 inches, this border quilting pattern is a breath of fresh air for your fabric.

Imagine a delicate ribbon, playfully looping around the edge, each twirl cradling a sweet heart—a symbol of care and craftsmanship woven into your projects. Get ready to stitch a narrative of contemporary sophistication with every thread!

7. Picket Fence Border Quilt Pattern (PDF Downloadable Pattern For Sale)

Picket Fence Border Quilt Pattern - etsy
Designer: Wendy of Quilt Block Patterns

Unleash your charm as a minimalist chic with the creation of Melinda of Gulf Coast Quilting! At a height of 3 inches, this border quilting pattern is a breath of fresh air for your fabric.

Imagine a delicate ribbon, playfully looping around the edge, each twirl cradling a sweet heart—a symbol of care and craftsmanship woven into your projects. Get ready to stitch a narrative of contemporary sophistication with every thread!

Here Are More Quilt Border Ideas For Inspiration

Quilt Border Idea from Sandy Lee Hart

Photo Source: Sandy Lee Hart

Quilt Border Idea from Sew Help Me Goddess

Photo Source: Sew Help Me Goddess

Quilt Border Idea from quiltingcat2

Photo Source: Quiltingcat2

Quilt Border Idea from Lisah Calle

Photo Source: Lisah Calle

Quilt Border Idea from Pacific Rim Quilt

Photo Source: Pacific Rim Quilt

Quilt Border Idea from Tadaisy Quilts

Photo Source: Tadaisy Quilts

Quilt Border Idea from Cindys Antique Quilts

Photo Source: Cindy’s Antique Quilts

And there you have it, a treasure of border quilt patterns that prove the edge is more than just an afterthought. We hope these patterns have inspired you to see borders in a new light.

Whether you’re a quilting novice or a seasoned pro, remember: the border is where your quilt gets to whisper its final secret.

Quilt Border Pattern ideas roundup ILQF Pinterest

Shirley

Sunday 25th of August 2024

Wonderful collection, thank you so much for putting it together

admin

Friday 30th of August 2024

We hope you'll find these quilt patterns helpful. Happy quilting!

Carol Kuhn

Tuesday 20th of February 2024

Thank You! Those are some great border ideas. I haven't been quilting long so those border instructions will be great help for me.

Glyn

Wednesday 21st of February 2024

We are glad you like our roundup. Happy Quilting!

Gail heinold

Wednesday 17th of May 2023

Missouri Star has free videos on YouTube

Elaine

Friday 21st of April 2023

I'd love to have the pattern for Little House Quilt Block Border, but the link apparently doesn't work. I've tried it multiple times over several days, but no luck. It would be great if that pattern is still available.

admin

Saturday 22nd of April 2023

Hi Elaine, we love that border too but unfortunately, the author removed the quilt tutorial. It is not available anymore.