Binding is the final touch that gives your quilt a finished look. It can also be used to add a decorative element to your quilt. There are many different ways to sew binding on a quilt, but the most common method is to use a machine. This method is relatively easy to do and can be completed in a few hours.
Before you begin, you will need to gather your supplies. You will need:
– Quilt binding
– Matching thread
– Sewing machine
– Iron and ironing board
– Scissors
– Measuring tape or ruler
Once you have gathered your supplies, you can begin sewing the binding on your quilt. First, you will need to measure and cut the binding strips. The binding strips should be cut to the length of the edge of your quilt, plus 2 inches. For example, if your quilt is 50 inches wide, you will need to cut two binding strips that are each 52 inches long. Next, you will need to fold the binding strips in half lengthwise and press them. This will help to keep the binding strips from fraying.
Preparing the Binding
Before you start sewing, it’s important to prepare your binding strips. This will ensure that they are the correct size and shape, and that they will be easy to work with.
**Step 1: Cut the fabric strips.**
Cut strips of fabric that are 2 1/2 inches wide and the length of the quilt’s edges. You will need enough strips to go around the entire perimeter of the quilt, plus a few extra for overlap. For a quilt with a 40-inch square top, you will need approximately 16 strips, each measuring 2 1/2 inches by 50 inches.
**Step 2: Join the strips.**
Sew the strips together end to end, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Press the seams open.
**Step 3: Fold the binding in half lengthwise.**
Fold the binding strip in half lengthwise, matching the raw edges. Press the fold.
**Step 4: Miter the corners.**
To create a mitered corner, fold the binding strip at a 45-degree angle at the corner of the quilt. Unfold the binding and press the crease. Fold the binding over the quilt edge and align the raw edges. Stitch the binding in place, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
**Step 5: Trim the excess binding.**
Once the binding is sewn in place, trim any excess fabric from the beginning and end of the strip. Your binding should now be the same length as the quilt’s edges.
| Material | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fabric strips (2 1/2 inches wide) | Length of quilt’s edges + extra for overlap |
| Thread | Matching the fabric |
| Iron and ironing board | – |
Sewing the Binding to the Quilt Top
Once you have your binding strips sewn together, it’s time to sew them to the quilt top. This can be done by hand or by machine. If you’re sewing by hand, use a small, sharp needle and a strong thread. Begin by folding the binding strip in half and aligning the raw edges with the raw edges of the quilt top. Sew a running stitch along the folded edge of the binding strip, catching the quilt top as you go. When you reach the end of the binding strip, overlap the ends by about 1 inch and sew them together.
If you’re sewing by machine, use a zipper foot or a binding foot. This will help you to keep the binding straight and even. Begin by folding the binding strip in half and aligning the raw edges with the raw edges of the quilt top. Sew a straight stitch along the folded edge of the binding strip, catching the quilt top as you go. When you reach the end of the binding strip, overlap the ends by about 1 inch and sew them together.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for sewing the binding to the quilt top:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fold the binding strip in half and align the raw edges with the raw edges of the quilt top. |
| 2 | Sew a running stitch along the folded edge of the binding strip, catching the quilt top as you go. |
| 3 | When you reach the end of the binding strip, overlap the ends by about 1 inch and sew them together. |
Mitering the Corners
Mitering the corners is a technique used to create a neat and professional-looking finish when binding a quilt. It involves folding the binding fabric at the corners to form a 45-degree angle, which prevents any bulk or excess fabric from accumulating at the corners.
Folding the Binding
To fold the binding for mitering the corners, you will need to:
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Unfold the binding at one corner.
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Make a 45-degree cut across the unfolded edge of the binding.
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Fold the cut edge of the binding over the corner of the quilt, aligning the raw edges.
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Press the binding firmly in place.
Finishing the Mitered Corner
Once the binding is folded at the corner, you will need to finish the mitered corner by:
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Folding the remaining binding over the mitered corner, overlapping the folded edge.
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Pressing the binding firmly in place.
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Sewing the binding in place along the edge of the quilt, catching both layers of the binding.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Unfold binding and cut 45-degree angle |
| 2 | Fold cut edge over corner, aligning raw edges |
| 3 | Fold remaining binding over mitered corner, overlapping |
| 4 | Press and sew binding in place |
Sewing the Binding on the Back
Once the binding is sewn around the front of the quilt, it’s time to sew it down on the back. This can be done by hand or machine.
By Hand
To sew the binding down by hand, use a small, sharp needle and thread that matches the color of the binding. Start by folding the binding over the edge of the quilt, so that the folded edge is even with the raw edge of the quilt. Use small, even stitches to sew the binding down. The stitches should be about 1/4 inch apart.
By Machine
To sew the binding down by machine, use a blind hem stitch. This stitch will create a small, invisible stitch that will hold the binding down securely.
Using a Blind Hem Foot
If your sewing machine has a blind hem foot, use it to sew the binding down. The blind hem foot will help you to create a neat, even stitch.
To use a blind hem foot, follow these steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fold the binding over the edge of the quilt, so that the folded edge is even with the raw edge of the quilt. |
| 2 | Attach the blind hem foot to your sewing machine. |
| 3 | Set the stitch width to the narrowest setting. |
| 4 | Start sewing at the corner of the quilt. Hold the binding taut as you sew. |
| 5 | Continue sewing around the quilt, keeping the binding taut. |
| 6 | When you reach the starting point, overlap the raw edges of the binding by about 1 inch. |
| 7 | Sew the binding down, overlapping the starting point by about 1 inch. |
| 8 | Trim any excess binding. |
Finishing the Binding
Machine Stitching
Machine stitching is a quick and easy way to finish the binding. Use a blind hem presser foot to stitch a narrow, invisible stitch along the inside edge of the binding. This method is especially suitable for flat, thin bindings.
Hand Stitching
Hand stitching is a more traditional method that gives a beautiful, almost invisible finish. Use a small, sharp needle and a matching thread. Stitch around the edges of the binding, taking small, even stitches.
Glue Basting
Glue basting is a time-saving technique that involves applying fabric glue to the back of the binding. The glue will hold the binding in place while you stitch it down by machine or hand. This method is best suited for heavy or bulky bindings.
Whipstitching
Whipstitching is a decorative stitch that can be used to finish the binding. Use a single strand of embroidery floss or yarn and a darning needle. Stitch through the binding, catching the quilt top and batting in each stitch. This method is especially suitable for decorative bindings.
Steps to Machine Stitch Binding
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fold the binding over the raw edge of the quilt, mitering the corners. |
| 2 | Attach a blind hem presser foot to your sewing machine. |
| 3 | Set the stitch length to 2-3 mm. |
| 4 | Stitch around the perimeter of the quilt, following the inside edge of the binding. |
| 5 | Hold the quilt taut as you stitch to prevent puckering. |
Hand Sewing the Binding
Hand sewing the binding is a great option if you don’t have a sewing machine or if you prefer the traditional look of hand-sewn binding. Here are the steps:
Materials you’ll need:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Binding fabric | Enough to go around the quilt with a 2-inch overlap |
| Needle | A sharp needle with a small eye |
| Thread | Strong thread in a color that matches the binding fabric |
| Thimble | Optional, but helpful to protect your fingers |
Step 1: Prepare the binding
Fold the binding fabric in half lengthwise, and press it. This will create a crease down the center of the fabric.
Step 2: Pin the binding to the quilt
Fold the raw edge of the binding over the raw edge of the quilt by 1 inch. Pin the binding in place, starting at a corner.
Step 3: Sew the binding
Use a small, even stitch to sew the binding to the quilt. Start at the corner, and sew around the entire quilt, overlapping the binding at the corners.
Step 4: Miters the Corners
To create a neat and professional finish at the corners, you’ll need to miter the binding. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- When you reach a corner, stop sewing 1/2 inch from the edge of the quilt.
- Fold the binding back on itself at a 45-degree angle.
- Trim the excess fabric to create a diagonal edge.
- Unfold the binding and continue sewing from the corner.
- Repeat this process at each corner.
Step 5: Finish the Binding
Once you’ve sewn around the entire quilt, overlap the binding by 2 inches. Fold the excess binding to the back of the quilt and tuck it under the first few stitches.
Step 6: Blind Stitch the Binding
To finish the binding, use a blind stitch to sew it down to the quilt. Here’s a detailed guide:
- Thread your needle with a double strand of thread and knot the ends.
- Start sewing at the corner of the quilt, on the back of the fabric.
- Insert the needle into the binding, just behind the previous stitch.
- Bring the needle up through the quilt, about 1/4 inch from the fold.
- Insert the needle back into the binding, just behind the previous stitch.
- Continue sewing around the entire quilt, taking small, even stitches.
- When you reach the end, knot the threads and trim any excess.
Using a Machine to Sew the Binding
7. Machine Stitching
Once the binding is pinned around the quilt, it’s time to stitch it down. Here’s how:
- Set your sewing machine to a narrow zigzag stitch (about 1.5mm wide). Adjust the stitch length to about 2.5mm.
- Start sewing at the corner of the quilt, aligning the raw edge of the binding with the folded edge of the quilt.
- Hold the binding taut as you sew, ensuring it stays folded over and flat.
- Continue stitching around the perimeter of the quilt, making sure to secure the threads at the beginning and end of each seam.
- As you sew, trim any excess binding that extends beyond the edge of the quilt.
- When you reach the mitered corners, carefully sew over them, ensuring the binding remains flat and secure.
- To make the stitching more decorative, you can adjust the zigzag stitch settings to create unique patterns or textures.
| Stitch Width | Stitch Length |
|---|---|
| 1.5mm | 2.5mm |
Customizing the Binding
Choosing the Binding Fabric
The binding fabric should complement the quilt’s overall design and color scheme. Consider using a coordinating fabric from the quilt or a contrasting color for a bolder look.
Width and Quantity of Binding
The width of the binding will determine the finished size of the binding. A typical width is 2.5 inches (6.4 cm), but you can adjust it to suit your preference. The amount of binding you’ll need depends on the perimeter of the quilt.
| Quilt Size | Binding Length |
|---|---|
| 40 x 60 inches | 6.3 yards |
| 50 x 70 inches | 7.9 yards |
| 60 x 80 inches | 9.5 yards |
Types of Binding
There are several different types of binding, including:
- Single Fold Binding: The simplest type of binding, where the fabric is folded once over the edge of the quilt.
- Double Fold Binding: The fabric is folded twice over the edge of the quilt, creating a thicker and more durable binding.
- Bias Binding: Cut on the diagonal of the fabric, bias binding provides a stretchy and flexible binding that is perfect for curved edges.
- Flange Binding: A decorative binding that features a folded edge that extends beyond the quilt’s surface.
Decorative Touches
To add a personal touch to your binding, consider incorporating decorative elements such as:
- Appliqué: Attaching small pieces of fabric or embellishments to the binding.
- Embroidery: Stitching decorative designs onto the binding.
- Quilting: Machine or hand-quilting the binding to create a unique texture.
Troubleshooting Binding Issues
Uneven or wavy binding
Cause: Mismatched seam allowances or inaccurate cutting can lead to uneven or wavy binding. Also, if the fabric was not stretched evenly when it was sewn, it can cause the binding to be wavy.
Solution: Ensure that the seam allowances are equal on both sides of the binding strip and that the fabric is cut accurately. When sewing the binding, take care to stretch the fabric evenly so that it lays flat.
Bulky or puckered corners
Cause: Too much fabric at the corners can create bulkiness or puckering. Additionally, not mitering or trimming the corners properly can also lead to these issues.
Solution: Miter the corners to reduce bulk and ensure a smooth transition. Trim any excess fabric at the corners to prevent puckering. It is advisable to practice on scrap fabric before attempting to bind a quilt.
Binding not laying flat or uneven
Cause: Binding that is too loose or too tight can prevent it from laying flat or evenly. Overlapping the binding strips too much or not enough can also contribute to this issue.
Solution: Adjust the tension of the sewing machine so that the binding is securely attached but not too tight. Ensure that the binding strips are overlapped by a consistent width (typically 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch). Use a binding clip or pin to hold the binding in place as you sew.
Finalizing the Quilt
Attaching the Binding
Once the binding strips have been sewn together into a continuous strip and folded in half, it’s time to attach it to the quilt. Start by pinning the binding to the edge of the quilt, with the folded edge aligned with the raw edge of the quilt. Use small, sharp pins and pin perpendicular to the edge of the quilt.
Mitering the Corners
When you reach a corner, you’ll need to miter the binding to create a neat and secure corner. To miter a corner, fold the binding at a 45-degree angle at the corner, then trim off the excess. Align the folded edge of the binding with the raw edge of the quilt and continue pinning.
Joining the Binding Ends
Once you’ve attached the binding all the way around the quilt, you’ll need to join the ends. Overlap the ends of the binding by about 1 inch, then fold the overlap in half and trim off the excess. Align the folded edges of the binding and pin them together.
Top-Stitching the Binding
The final step is to top-stitch the binding to secure it to the quilt. Use a small stitch length and stitch close to the folded edge of the binding. You can either stitch by hand or by machine. If you’re stitching by machine, use a walking foot to help feed the quilt evenly through the machine.
Methods for Joining the Binding Ends
There are several different methods for joining the ends of the binding. Here are a few common methods:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Overlap | Overlap the ends of the binding by about 1 inch, then fold the overlap in half and trim off the excess. |
| Mitred | Fold the ends of the binding at a 45-degree angle, then trim off the excess. Align the folded edges of the binding and sew them together. |
| Bias Strip | Cut a bias strip of fabric that is the same width as the binding. Fold the ends of the binding over the bias strip and sew them together. |
How To Sew Binding On Quilt
Sewing binding on a quilt is a great way to finish the edges and give it a polished look. It’s also a relatively easy process that can be done by hand or machine. Here are the steps on how to sew binding on a quilt:
- Cut the binding strips. The binding strips should be 2 1/2 inches wide and cut to the length of the quilt’s edges. You will need enough strips to go around the entire perimeter of the quilt, plus a few extra inches for overlap.
- Join the binding strips. Sew the binding strips together end-to-end using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Press the seam allowances open.
- Attach the binding to the quilt. Pin the binding to the quilt, right sides together, and align the raw edges. Use a 1/4-inch seam allowance to sew the binding to the quilt. Press the seam allowances open.
- Fold the binding over the quilt edge. Fold the binding over the quilt edge and press it down. Fold the binding over again and press it down again. Use a blind stitch or a topstitch to sew the binding down to the quilt.
- Trim the excess binding. Trim the excess binding close to the quilt edge.
People Also Ask About How To Sew Binding On Quilt
How do you sew binding on a quilt by hand?
There are several factors that can affect how long it takes to sew quilt binding on by hand.
– The size of the quilt: A larger quilt will take longer to bind than a smaller quilt.
– The type of binding: Some types of binding, such as bias binding, are more difficult to sew on than others. The type of fabric used for the binding can also affect how long it takes to sew on.
– The skill level of the person sewing the binding: Someone who is more experienced will be able to sew the binding on more quickly than someone who is new to quilting.
–The method used to sew the binding on: There are several different methods that can be used to sew binding on a quilt by hand. Some methods are faster than others.
Can you machine sew quilt binding?
Yes, you can machine sew quilt binding. It is the most common way to sew binding on a quilt because it is much faster than hand sewing. There are a few different ways to machine sew quilt binding, but the most common method is to use a 1/4-inch seam allowance and sew the binding to the quilt top first. Then, fold the binding over the quilt edge and sew it down again, using a blind stitch or a topstitch.
How do you finish the corners when sewing binding on a quilt?
When sewing binding on a quilt, there are two main ways to finish the corners:
– Mitered corners: Mitered corners are created by folding the binding over at a 45-degree angle at the corners. This gives the quilt a more professional finish.
– Bias binding: Bias binding is cut on the bias, which means that it is cut at a 45-degree angle to the grain of the fabric. This gives the binding a stretchy quality, which makes it easier to sew around curves and corners.
