The finishing touch on any quilt is the binding. It not only gives the quilt a polished look, but it also helps to protect the edges from fraying. Binding a quilt can be a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple with the right supplies and a little bit of patience. In this article, we will show you how to attach binding to a quilt, step-by-step.
Before you begin, you will need to gather your supplies. You will need:
• A quilt
• Binding fabric
• Bias tape maker or bias tape
• Fabric glue
• Scissors
• Iron and ironing board
Once you have gathered your supplies, you are ready to begin. The first step is to cut your binding fabric. The width of your binding will depend on the thickness of your quilt. For a quilt that is 1/4 inch thick, you will need to cut your binding fabric 2 1/2 inches wide. For a quilt that is 1/2 inch thick, you will need to cut your binding fabric 3 inches wide. Once you have cut your binding fabric, you will need to fold it in half lengthwise and press it with an iron.
Gathering the Necessary Materials
Assembling the materials required for quilt binding is essential to commence the process efficiently. Here’s a comprehensive list of items to gather:
Binding Fabric:
1. Choose a fabric that complements the quilt’s overall design and color scheme.
2. Determine the required yardage based on the quilt’s perimeter and the desired binding width (typically 2-3 inches). A general rule of thumb is to add 10 inches to the perimeter for joining and shrinkage.
Notions:
1. Thread: Select a thread that matches the binding fabric or the quilt backing.
2. Binding Clips or Safety Pins: These are used to temporarily secure the binding to the quilt while sewing.
3. Measuring Tape or Ruler: For precise cutting and measuring.
4. Iron and Ironing Board: For pressing the binding and seams.
Attaching the Bias Binding by Machine
Attaching bias binding is a popular way to finish the edges of a quilt. But it can be a daunting task for beginners. Here are some tips on how to do it by machine.
Materials:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bias binding | Enough to go around the perimeter of the quilt plus 12 inches |
| Matching thread | 1 spool |
| Sewing machine | 1 |
| Presser foot | 1 for bias binding |
Step 1: Prepare the Bias Binding
First, you need to prepare the bias binding. Fold the bias binding in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press the fold flat.
Step 2: Attach the Bias Binding
Next, you need to attach the bias binding to the quilt. Start by pinning the bias binding to the quilt, right sides together. The raw edge of the bias binding should be aligned with the raw edge of the quilt.
Step 3: Sew the Bias Binding
Now you are ready to sew the bias binding. Use a bias binding presser foot to help you sew the bias binding evenly. Start sewing at one corner of the quilt. Sew all the way around the quilt, stopping at the starting point.
Tips:
- Use a small stitch length to ensure that the bias binding is securely attached to the quilt.
- Be careful not to stretch the bias binding as you sew. This will cause the binding to pucker.
- If you make a mistake, don’t panic. Simply unpick the stitches and start again.
Once you have sewn the bias binding, your quilt will be finished. Bias binding is a great way to add a touch of style to your quilt. It is also a relatively easy technique to learn. With a little practice, you will be able to attach bias binding like a pro.
Attaching the Bias Binding by Hand
Before you start, make sure your quilt top and backing are squared up and trimmed to the same size. You will also need a length of bias binding that is at least twice the perimeter of your quilt plus 10 inches. Here are the steps:
1. Fold the bias binding in half
Fold the bias binding in half lengthwise, right sides together. Press it flat.
2. Sew the bias binding to the quilt top
Starting at the center of one side of the quilt, pin the bias binding to the quilt top, right sides together. Stitch it in place using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Trim the excess bias binding from the corners.
3. Fold the bias binding over the edge of the quilt
Fold the bias binding over the edge of the quilt, enclosing the raw edge. Pin it in place. Stitch it down using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
4. Miter the corners
To create a mitered corner, follow these steps:
- Stop stitching about 1 inch from the corner. Fold the bias binding back on itself, making sure that the folded edge is even with the raw edge of the quilt. Stitch the bias binding in place, starting about 1 inch from the corner and stitching to the corner.
- Fold the bias binding over the raw edge of the quilt again, making sure that the folded edge is even with the raw edge of the quilt. Stitch the bias binding in place, starting at the corner and stitching to the next side of the quilt.
- Trim any excess bias binding from the corner.
Repeat these steps for the remaining corners.
5. Finish the binding
Starting at the center of one side of the quilt, hand-stitch the bias binding down to the quilt backing using a blind stitch. Trim any excess bias binding from the corners.
Your quilt is now finished!
Mitering Bias Binding Corners
To miter bias binding corners, follow these steps:
- Mark the center point of the bias binding that will extend along the next side of the quilt.
- Mark a point on the quilt that is 2 inches from the corner.
- Fold the bias binding at the center point and then unfold it.
- Align the fold with the marked point on the quilt, so that the bias binding extends 1 inch on either side of the corner.
- Pin the bias binding in place at the corner, being sure to miter the corners of the bias binding at the point where they meet. To miter the corners, fold the bias binding in half at the corner and press. Unfold the bias binding and cut off the excess fabric at the corner. Then, refold the bias binding and press again.
- Sew the bias binding in place along the edge of the quilt.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Mark the center point of the bias binding that will extend along the next side of the quilt. |
| 2 | Mark a point on the quilt that is 2 inches from the corner. |
| 3 | Fold the bias binding at the center point and then unfold it. |
| 4 | Align the fold with the marked point on the quilt, so that the bias binding extends 1 inch on either side of the corner. |
| 5 | Pin the bias binding in place at the corner, being sure to miter the corners of the bias binding at the point where they meet. To miter the corners, fold the bias binding in half at the corner and press. Unfold the bias binding and cut off the excess fabric at the corner. Then, refold the bias binding and press again. |
| 6 | Sew the bias binding in place along the edge of the quilt. |
Finishing the Binding Ends
The final step in attaching quilt binding is finishing the loose ends. This involves carefully joining the beginning and ending edges of the binding, creating a cohesive and finished look. Here are the detailed steps for finishing the binding ends:
1. Overlapping the Binding Ends: Overlap the starting and ending edges of the binding by approximately 2-3 inches. This overlap will provide sufficient fabric to create a strong and secure seam.
2. Trimming the Excess Binding: Trim the excess binding fabric at the opposite end to the overlap. Leave about 1/2 inch of fabric beyond the end of the quilt.
3. Folding the Binding Edge: Fold the trimmed binding edge over the raw edge of the quilt, aligning the folded edge with the seam line. Press the fold to create a sharp crease.
4. Mitering the Binding Corners: At the corners of the quilt, carefully fold and miter the binding fabric to create a neat and precise finish. This involves cutting diagonal slits into the binding fabric and folding it to fit snugly into the corner.
5. Sewing the Binding Ends: Using a needle and thread, carefully sew the overlapping binding ends together. Begin by securing the seam with a few stitches close to the quilt. Continue sewing along the seam line, using small, even stitches.
6. Reinforcing the Binding Connection: To ensure a durable connection between the binding ends, consider reinforcing the seam using one of the following methods:
• Hand Stitch: Overcast or blanket stitch the seam by hand for added strength and a decorative touch.
• Machine Topstitch: Topstitch along the seam line using a sewing machine to strengthen the connection and create a professional finish.
• Corner Loops: Attach small loops of fabric or yarn to the corners of the binding, and tie them together to secure the ends.
Tips for Finishing Binding Ends
• Use a sharp needle and thread for precision and ease of sewing.
• Take your time and carefully align the binding ends before sewing.
• Reinforce the binding connection to ensure durability and longevity.
Adding Optional Decorative Details
Once the binding is attached, you can add optional decorative details to enhance the quilt’s appearance. Here are some ideas:
Appliqués
Appliqués are fabric designs that are sewn onto the quilt top. They can add a touch of whimsy or elegance to the quilt. To appliqué, cut out the desired design from fabric and sew it onto the quilt top using a blind stitch or other decorative stitch.
Embroidery
Embroidery is another way to add embellishment to a quilt. You can embroider designs by hand or machine. Embroidery can be used to create borders, motifs, or even small scenes on the quilt.
Quilting
Quilting is the process of sewing through all three layers of the quilt (the top, batting, and backing) to create a secure and decorative finish. Quilting can be done by hand or machine. There are many different quilting designs to choose from, such as straight lines, curves, and motifs.
Other Decorative Details
Other decorative details that can be added to a quilt include:
| Decoration | Description |
|---|---|
| Beads | Small beads can be sewn onto the quilt for a touch of sparkle. |
| Buttons | Buttons can be sewn onto the quilt for a whimsical or vintage look. |
| Lace | Lace can be added to the edges of the quilt for a delicate touch. |
| Ribbon | Ribbon can be used to create borders, appliqués, or other decorative details. |
Troubleshooting Common Binding Issues
Binding is too loose:
– The binding strip may not have been cut wide enough.
– The binding may not have been stitched down securely enough.
– The quilt may have been washed and dried too frequently, causing the binding to become loose.
Binding is too tight:
– The binding strip may have been cut too narrow.
– The binding may have been stitched down too tightly.
– The quilt may have been washed and dried too frequently, causing the binding to shrink.
Binding is not straight:
– The binding may not have been sewn on evenly.
– The quilt may have been shifted during the sewing process.
– The binding may have been pressed incorrectly.
Binding is puckered:
– The binding may not have been stretched evenly during the sewing process.
– The quilt may have been washed and dried too frequently, causing the binding to shrink.
– The binding may have been ironed too hot.
Binding is fraying:
– The binding fabric may not have been strong enough.
– The binding may not have been stitched down securely enough.
– The quilt may have been washed and dried too frequently, causing the binding to fray.
Binding is coming off:
– The binding may not have been stitched down securely enough.
– The quilt may have been washed and dried too frequently, causing the binding to come off.
– The binding may have been damaged during the sewing process.
Binding is not laying flat:
– The binding may not have been pressed correctly.
– The quilt may have been washed and dried too frequently, causing the binding to shrink.
– The binding may have been sewn on unevenly.
Binding is too bulky:
– The binding strip may have been cut too wide.
– The binding may have been folded over too many times.
– The binding may have been stitched down too tightly.
Laundering and Caring for Bound Quilts
To maintain the beauty and longevity of your bound quilt, proper laundering and care are essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure your quilt remains pristine:
Laundering
Machine Washing: While most medium-sized quilts can be machine washed, it’s recommended to use the gentle cycle and cold water. Avoid using bleach or harsh detergents.
Hand Washing: For delicate fabrics or large quilts, hand washing is preferable. Submerge the quilt in a bathtub or large sink filled with cold water and mild detergent, and gently agitate. Rinse thoroughly.
Drying
Air Drying: Air drying is the safest method for preserving the quilt’s shape and color. Lay the quilt flat on a clean surface or line dry it outdoors.
Tumble Drying: If air drying is not an option, tumble dry the quilt on low heat, using the delicate cycle. Avoid overdrying, as this can damage the fabric.
Storage
To protect your quilt from dust and fading, store it in a cool, dry place. Consider using a breathable storage bag or quilt holder made from acid-free materials.
Additional Care Tips
• Spot clean small stains using a damp cloth and mild detergent.
• Avoid ironing directly on the quilt. Instead, use a pressing cloth.
• If the quilt becomes heavily soiled, consider taking it to a professional dry cleaner.
| Quilt Size | Washing Method |
|---|---|
| Small to Medium | Machine Wash (Gentle Cycle, Cold Water) |
| Large | Hand Wash |
| Delicate Fabrics | Hand Wash |
Remember, these guidelines may vary slightly depending on the specific fabrics and techniques used in your quilt. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific care recommendations.
Materials You’ll Need:
– Binding strips
– Matching thread
– Sewing machine
– Iron and ironing board
– Measuring tape or ruler
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Binding Strips:
Cut binding strips to be the desired width of your binding. Sew the strips together to form a single long piece.
2. Attach the Binding to the Quilt:
Pin the binding around the edge of the quilt, aligning the raw edge of the binding with the raw edge of the quilt top.
3. Machine Stitch the Binding:
Using a matching thread, machine stitch the binding to the quilt top, 1/4 inch from the edge.
4. Fold the Binding Over the Edge:
Fold the binding over the edge of the quilt and hand-stitch or machine stitch it in place, 1/4 inch from the folded edge.
5. Trim the Excess Binding:
Trim any excess binding from the corners and miter the corners for a professional finish.
Tips for a Professional-Looking Finish:
6. Use Bias Binding:
Bias binding stretches easily, making it easier to apply around curves and corners.
7. Machine Quilt the Binding:
Machine quilting the binding adds extra strength and durability to the finish.
8. Use a Variety of Stitches:
Decorative machine stitches can create a unique and personalized look for your quilt binding.
9. Hand-Stitch the Corners:
Hand-stitching the corners allows for greater precision and control.
10. Practice Makes Perfect:
The more you practice, the better your binding skills will become. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you.
How To Attach Binding To A Quilt
Binding is a strip of fabric that is sewn around the edges of a quilt to finish it off. It can be made from any type of fabric, but it is usually made from a coordinating fabric that matches the quilt top. Binding can be attached by hand or by machine. There are two methods for attaching binding to a quilt: the traditional method and the modern method.
Traditional Method
- Cut strips of fabric for the binding. The strips should be 2 1/4 inches wide and long enough to go around the entire perimeter of the quilt.
- Join the strips of fabric together by sewing them together end-to-end.
- Fold the binding in half lengthwise, wrong sides together.
- Pin the binding to the edge of the quilt, raw edges aligned.
- Sew the binding to the quilt using a blind stitch.
Modern Method
- Cut strips of fabric for the binding. The strips should be 2 1/4 inches wide and long enough to go around the entire perimeter of the quilt.
- Join the strips of fabric together by sewing them together end-to-end.
- Fold the binding in half lengthwise, wrong sides together.
- Pin the binding to the edge of the quilt, raw edges aligned.
- Sew the binding to the quilt using a machine stitch.
People Also Ask
What is the best way to attach binding to a quilt?
The best way to attach binding to a quilt depends on your personal preference. The traditional method is more time-consuming, but it produces a more polished finish. The modern method is faster, but it can be more difficult to get a clean finish.
What kind of fabric should I use for binding?
You can use any type of fabric for binding, but it is usually made from a coordinating fabric that matches the quilt top. Some popular fabrics for binding include cotton, linen, and silk.
How wide should the binding be?
The binding should be 2 1/4 inches wide. This will give you a finished binding that is 1 inch wide.
How long should the binding be?
The binding should be long enough to go around the entire perimeter of the quilt. To determine the length of the binding, measure the perimeter of the quilt and add 10 inches. This will give you enough binding to overlap the ends and sew them together.
