Quilting is an art form that has been passed down through generations. If you’re new to the craft, one of the finishing touches that can elevate your quilt is the binding. Applying quilt binding is not a difficult task, but it does require some patience and precision to ensure a professional-looking finish. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll learn how to sew on quilt binding with ease.
Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials: a quilt with unfinished edges, quilt binding fabric, coordinating thread, scissors, a sewing machine, and an iron. Start by creating your quilt binding. Measure and cut your binding fabric strips, then sew them together end-to-end to form one continuous strip. Once your binding is prepared, it’s time to attach it to the quilt. Fold the binding strip in half lengthwise and press it with an iron. This will help you create a clean, crisp edge when you sew it to the quilt.
Align the folded edge of the binding with the raw edge of the quilt and pin it in place. Use a sewing machine to stitch the binding to the quilt, using a small stitch length and a matching thread color. As you sew, be sure to keep the binding flat and smooth, and miter the corners for a professional finish. After sewing the binding to the front of the quilt, turn it to the back and fold it over the raw edges. Hand-stitch the binding in place, taking small, even stitches. Once the binding is securely attached, press it with an iron for a polished look. With careful attention to detail and a bit of patience, you can achieve a beautiful, professional finish on your quilt binding.
Preparing the Fabric and Binding
Cutting the Quilt Fabric
Before you can start sewing on the binding, you need to cut the quilt fabric. The size of the binding will depend on the size of your quilt. For a standard-sized quilt, you will need to cut the fabric into strips that are 2 1/2 inches wide and the length of the quilt’s perimeter plus 10 inches. For example, if your quilt is 60 inches square, you will need to cut four strips of fabric that are 2 1/2 inches wide and 70 inches long.
To cut the fabric, use a rotary cutter and a cutting mat. This will give you the most accurate cuts. Start by folding the fabric in half lengthwise and then in half again crosswise. This will give you four equal sections. Use the rotary cutter to cut along the fold lines to create four strips of fabric. Then, unfold the strips and cut them to the desired length.
Preparing the Binding
Once the fabric is cut, you need to prepare the binding. This involves folding the fabric over and pressing it. Start by folding one long edge of the fabric over by 1/2 inch and pressing it. Then, fold the other long edge over by 1/2 inch and press it. Finally, fold the fabric in half lengthwise and press it.
The binding is now ready to be sewn to the quilt.
Cutting the Bias Binding
Bias binding is a type of fabric strip that is cut on the diagonal of the fabric. This gives it a unique stretchiness that makes it ideal for binding quilts. To cut bias binding, you will need:
- A sharp rotary cutter
- A cutting mat
- A ruler
- Fabric
Step 1: Determine the width of the bias binding. The width of the bias binding will depend on the size of your quilt. For most quilts, a bias binding that is 2.5 inches wide will be sufficient.
Step 2: Cut the fabric strips. To cut the fabric strips, you will need to cut the fabric on the diagonal. To do this, start by folding the fabric in half, right sides together. Then, make a 45-degree cut along the folded edge of the fabric. Continue cutting strips of fabric until you have reached the desired length.
Step 3: Join the fabric strips. Once you have cut all of the fabric strips, you will need to join them together to create a continuous length of bias binding. To do this, simply sew the strips together, right sides together, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Press the seams open.
| Fabric | Bias Binding Width |
| Quilting-weight cotton | 2.5 inches |
| Flannel | 3 inches |
| Minky | 3.5 inches |
Joining the Bias Binding to Form a Loop
To join the bias binding to form a loop, you will need to:
-
Fold the end of the binding over by 1 inch (2.5 cm) and press.
Tip: This will help to prevent the binding from fraying. -
Unfold the binding and fold it in half lengthwise, with the raw edges aligned.
Tip: This will create a loop that will be used to attach the binding to the quilt. -
Sew the folded edge of the binding together, using a 1/4 inch (6 mm) seam allowance.
Tip: Start and stop stitching about 1/8 inch (3 mm) from the folded edge. This will help to keep the seam from showing.Here are some additional tips for joining the bias binding:
Tip Benefit Use a sharp needle This will help to prevent the fabric from snagging. Use a small stitch length This will help to keep the seam from puckering. Press the seam open This will help to keep the seam flat and make it less visible.
Pinning the Binding to the Quilt
Once you have the binding cut and sewn, it’s time to pin it to the quilt. Start by aligning the raw edge of the binding with the raw edge of the quilt top. Pin the binding in place, starting at the center of one side and working your way around the quilt.
As you pin, make sure to pull the binding taut so that it will lie flat when it is sewn down. However, don’t pull it too tightly, or the fabric will buckle. Pin the binding every few inches, or more often if necessary to keep it in place.
When you come to the corners of the quilt, miter the binding to create a neat and tidy finish. To miter the binding, fold the binding in half at the corner and crease it. Then, unfold the binding and align the raw edges of the binding with the raw edges of the quilt top. Pin the binding in place, starting at the center of the corner and working your way out to the sides.
Continue pinning the binding around the quilt until you reach the starting point. Once the binding is pinned in place, you can sew it down using a blind stitch or other method of your choice.
Tips for Pinning the Binding to the Quilt
-Use sharp pins to make it easier to pin through the layers of fabric.
-Pin the binding taut, but not too tightly.
-Miter the binding at the corners to create a neat and tidy finish.
-If you are having trouble pinning the binding, try using a thimble to protect your fingers.
Here is a table with some additional tips for pinning the binding to the quilt:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a variety of pin sizes | Smaller pins can be used for delicate fabrics, while larger pins can be used for heavier fabrics. |
| Pin at an angle | This will help to prevent the fabric from puckering when it is sewn. |
| Use a thimble | This will protect your fingers from being pricked by the pins. |
Gathering Materials
Before you begin, gather the necessary materials: quilt, quilt binding, matching thread, sewing machine, iron, and ironing board.
Preparing the Quilt Binding
Cut the quilt binding into strips that are 2.5 inches wide and long enough to wrap around the edges of the quilt with a minimum of 4 inches of overlap at the corners. Join the strips together with a mitered or butt seam.
Attaching the Binding with a Lap Seam
Fold the quilt binding in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press the fold with an iron.
Place the folded quilt binding along the raw edge of the quilt, with the raw edges of the binding aligned with the raw edges of the quilt. Pin the binding in place.
Sew the binding to the quilt using a blind stitch or a small, running stitch. Begin sewing at one corner of the quilt and stitch all the way around, overlapping the binding at the corners.
Once the binding is sewn on, turn it to the backside of the quilt and fold the raw edges under. Press the binding with an iron to secure it in place.
Topstitch the binding to the quilt, using a small, running stitch or a decorative stitch. Begin topstitching at one corner and stitch all the way around, overlapping the binding at the corners.
Your quilt is now bound and ready to enjoy!
Table: Quilt Binding Stitches
| Stitch | Description |
|---|---|
| Blind stitch | A small, invisible stitch that is used to attach the quilt binding to the quilt. |
| Running stitch | A small, straight stitch that is used to attach the quilt binding to the quilt or to topstitch the binding. |
| Decorative stitch | A stitch that is used to add a decorative element to the quilt binding. |
Mitering the Corners
Mitering the corners gives your quilt binding a clean and professional finish. Here’s how to do it:
1. Align the Binding with the Corner
Lay the binding along one side of the corner, aligning the raw edge with the folded edge of the quilt.
2. Measure and Mark the Fold
Measure the distance from the corner to the opposite edge of the binding. Add 1/4 inch to this measurement and mark it on the binding.
3. Fold the Binding
Fold the binding at the marked point, aligning the raw edge with the edge of the quilt.
4. Measure and Mark the Second Fold
Measure the distance from the corner to the folded edge of the binding. Subtract 1/8 inch from this measurement and mark it on the binding.
5. Fold the Binding Again
Fold the binding at the second marked point, aligning the raw edge with the edge of the quilt.
6. Pin and Sew the Corner
Pin the binding securely in place, starting at the point where the two folds meet. Sew around the corner, pivoting the needle at each point and continuing until you reach the starting point.
Here’s a more detailed table with step-by-step instructions for sewing the corner:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fold the binding at a 45-degree angle, aligning the raw edge with the edge of the quilt. |
| 2 | Stitch along the folded edge, leaving a 1/8-inch seam allowance. |
| 3 | Unfold the binding and fold it in the opposite direction, aligning the raw edge with the edge of the quilt. |
| 4 | Stitch along the folded edge, leaving a 1/8-inch seam allowance. |
| 5 | Trim the excess binding at the corner. |
Finishing the Outer Edge of the Binding
7. Machine Stitching the Binding
Using a Walking Foot
Attach a walking foot to your sewing machine. This will help to evenly feed the fabric layers and prevent them from shifting while you stitch.
Stitch Length and Tension
Set your stitch length to about 2.5mm. Adjust the tension slightly looser than usual, as this will help to keep the stitches from puckering the fabric.
Starting and Ending
Start stitching about 6 inches from the corner of the quilt. Overlap the start and end of the binding by about 1/2 inch, and backstitch over the overlapped area to secure it.
Sewing the Corners
When you reach a corner, fold the binding diagonally at a 45-degree angle. Align the folded edge with the quilt edge and continue stitching down the next side.
Mitering the Corners
For a mitered corner, cut the binding at a 45-degree angle on both ends. Fold the binding over the quilt corner and align the angled edges. Stitch along the folded edge, starting and stopping about 1/4 inch from the corner.
Table: Stitch Length and Tension for Machine Stitching Binding
| Stitch Length | Tension |
|—|—|
| 2.5mm | Slightly looser than usual |
Creating a Hung Binding
A hung binding is a method of binding a quilt that allows for easy removal and replacement. It is often used on large quilts or quilts that will be stored for extended periods.
Materials:
- Binding fabric
- Bias tape
- Hand-sewing needle
- Thread
To create a hung binding:
1. Cut the binding fabric into strips that are 2-1/2 inches wide and twice the length of the quilt’s perimeter.
2. Fold the binding strips in half lengthwise and press.
3. Pin the binding strips to the right side of the quilt, aligning the raw edges with the outer edge of the quilt.
4. Stitch the binding strips to the quilt using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
5. Fold the binding strips to the back of the quilt and miter the corners.
6. Hand-stitch the binding to the back of the quilt using a ladder stitch.
7. Cut the bias tape into strips that are 2 inches long.
8. Fold the bias tape strips in half and pin them to the back of the quilt, perpendicular to the binding. The bias tape strips should be evenly spaced along the quilt’s perimeter and should be long enough to tie the binding in place.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Tie the binding to the back of the quilt using the bias tape strips. |
| 2 | To remove the binding, simply untie the bias tape strips. |
| 3 | To replace the binding, tie the new binding to the back of the quilt using the bias tape strips. |
Binding with Decorative Stitching
Using decorative stitching adds a unique touch to your quilt binding. Here’s how to do it:
1. Trim any excess batting or fabric from the edges of the quilt.
2. Fold the binding in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press.
3. Open the binding and fold each edge toward the center crease.
4. Press the folded edges.
5. Pin the binding to the quilt, aligning the raw edges.
6. Stitch the binding to the quilt using a straight stitch, 1/4 inch from the edge.
7. Fold the excess binding to the back of the quilt.
8. Mitre the corners to create a clean, finished look.
Decorative Stitching Options
There are many different decorative stitches that you can use to embellish your quilt binding. Here are a few popular options:
| Stitch | Description |
|---|---|
| Blanket stitch | A simple and elegant stitch that creates a decorative edging. |
| Zigzag stitch | A versatile stitch that can be used to create a variety of decorative effects. |
| Satin stitch | A smooth and shiny stitch that is perfect for adding a touch of luxury to your quilt. |
| Feather stitch | A delicate and intricate stitch that is often used to embellish clothing and home décor. |
Experiment with different decorative stitches to find the one that best suits your quilt. Once you have chosen a stitch, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your sewing machine to apply it to the binding.
Pressing and Securing the Binding
10. Finishing and Pressing
Once the binding has been sewn on, it’s time to finish and press it properly. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure a professional-looking finish:
- Trim the excess binding: Cut off the excess binding around the edges of the quilt, leaving about 1/4 inch.
- Turn the corners: Fold the binding at each corner and press it into a neat miter. Trim any excess fabric if necessary.
- Press the binding: Use a hot iron to press the binding flat against the quilt. Avoid pressing directly on the stitches to prevent them from breaking.
- Secure the corners: Hand-stitch the binding corners securely in place using a small whip stitch or a blind stitch.
- Press the entire binding: Give the entire quilt one final press to set the binding and ensure a smooth finish.
11. Using Stitch-in-the-Ditch Binding
Stitch-in-the-ditch binding is a popular method for attaching binding without using hand-stitching. Here’s a table summarizing the steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. | Fold the binding in half lengthwise. |
| 2. | Pin the binding to the front edge of the quilt, aligning the raw edges. |
| 3. | Stitch the binding to the quilt, staying close to the existing seam line (in the ditch). |
| 4. | Press the binding flat and turn it to the back of the quilt. |
How to Sew on Quilt Binding
Quilt binding is the final step in the quilt-making process, and it serves both a functional and decorative purpose. It protects the raw edges of the quilt from fraying, and it adds a beautiful finishing touch to the quilt.
There are a few different ways to sew on quilt binding, but the most common method is to use a machine stitch. Here are the steps on how to sew on quilt binding using a machine:
- Cut strips of fabric for the binding. The strips should be 2 1/2 inches wide and long enough to go around the entire perimeter of the quilt.
- Join the strips of fabric together using a diagonal seam. This will create a continuous strip of fabric that is long enough to go around the entire quilt.
- Fold the binding strip in half lengthwise, with the wrong sides together. Press the fold.
- Align the raw edge of the binding strip with the raw edge of the quilt. The folded edge of the binding strip should be facing the quilt.
- Stitch the binding strip to the quilt using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Be sure to catch both layers of the binding strip in the stitching.
- Once the binding strip is sewn to the quilt, fold the binding strip over the raw edge of the quilt. The folded edge of the binding strip should now be facing the back of the quilt.
- Stitch the binding strip to the quilt using a blind stitch or a topstitch. This will create a finished look to the quilt.
People Also Ask
How do I finish off the corners when sewing on quilt binding?
To finish off the corners when sewing on quilt binding, miter the corners. To do this, fold the binding strip at a 45-degree angle at the corner. Then, fold the other side of the binding strip over the first fold and stitch in place.
What is the best way to press quilt binding?
The best way to press quilt binding is to use a steam iron. Steam will help to set the stitches and give the binding a crisp finish.
How do I choose the right fabric for quilt binding?
When choosing fabric for quilt binding, consider the weight and texture of the quilt fabric. A heavier quilt fabric will require a heavier binding fabric, and a lighter quilt fabric will require a lighter binding fabric. You should also consider the color and pattern of the binding fabric. The binding fabric should complement the quilt fabric and add to the overall design of the quilt.
