How to: Prairie Points – Decorative Edge Tutorial

March 09, 2026

🌾 Prairie Points – Decorative Edge Tutorial

Prairie points are folded fabric triangles used to add a charming, textured trim to the edge of a design.

✂️ What You’ll Need

• Fabric strips or squares
• Scissors or rotary cutter
• Iron
• Pins or clips

🧵 Step-by-Step

1. Cut the Fabric
   Cut squares (commonly 3–5 inches, depending on desired point size).
2. Fold into Triangles
   Fold each square in half diagonally to form a triangle.
   Press well with an iron.
3. Fold Again
   Fold the triangle in half once more, bringing the two points together.
   Press firmly — this creates the prairie point.
4. Arrange Along the Edge
   Place prairie points along the raw edge of your design with raw edges aligned and points facing inward.
   Overlap slightly for a full, even look.

🌼 Tips for Best Results

• Use lightweight cotton for crisp points
• Consistent pressing = neater finish
• Smaller squares give a delicate look, larger squares give bold points

Option 2: One Long Strip

Cut the Strip
Cut a long strip of fabric with a width equal to twice the triangle base (or slightly wider to allow for seam allowance). For our 9.5" × 9.5" placemat, we used a strip measuring 2" wide and 37" long. We then made 2" marks along the strip and folded each section into triangles.

Mark & Fold
Mark triangles along the strip (same size as individual squares).
Fold each marked triangle into shape as above, pressing each well.

Stack or Chain
Keep the triangles attached along the strip for easy placement. You can baste the strip as one unit before adding to your design. We added an additional Color Stop to secure the Prairie Points All In The Hoop.

Back Fold Method — Prairie Points

You'll need: 3" fabric squares in 2 alternating colours.

Step 1 — First fold Fold the square in half, bringing the corners together to form a rectangle.

Step 2 — Mark the centre Mark the centre point along the folded edge.

Step 3 — Second fold Fold each corner down to meet the centre mark, creating a neat triangle with all folds sitting on the back.

Step 4 — Arrange and alternate Alternate your two colours as you place your Prairie Points around your project for a classic, eye-catching finish.

Step 5 — Attach in the hoop We've included a running stitch circle in the design so you can attach your Prairie Points easily and neatly, right in the hoop.

We look forward seeing your creative projects!
Happy stitching,
Annemarie

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