The art of sewing perfect angled binding is an essential skill for any seamstress or tailor. It not only adds a professional finish to your garments but also ensures durability and longevity. Whether you’re working on a simple dress or a complex suit, mastering angled binding will elevate your creations to the next level. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of angled binding, providing step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting tips, and expert advice to help you achieve flawless results every time.
To begin our journey, let’s understand the basics of angled binding. Angled binding is a technique used to create a neat and secure finish on exposed edges of fabric, such as necklines, armholes, and pockets. It involves folding and stitching a strip of fabric at an angle to the main fabric, creating a crisp and tailored edge. Unlike straight binding, angled binding follows the contours of the fabric, resulting in a more contoured and polished finish. Mastering angled binding requires precision and a keen eye for detail, but with the right techniques and practice, you’ll soon be able to execute this essential sewing skill with confidence.
Now that we have a solid foundation, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of sewing perfect angled binding. Gather your materials, including a strip of fabric cut on the bias (45-degree angle), a sewing machine, thread, and your chosen garment. Prepare the fabric by pressing it to remove any wrinkles and creases. Next, we’ll guide you through folding and stitching the binding to the main fabric, ensuring you create a secure and aesthetically pleasing finish. Along the way, we’ll provide invaluable tips and tricks to help you troubleshoot any challenges you may encounter.
Essential Materials and Preparation
Materials:
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Fabric:
- Choose a sturdy, yet pliable fabric for the binding, such as canvas, linen, or cotton twill.
- The width of the fabric should be approximately twice the desired finished width of the binding plus 1/2 to 3/4 inch for seam allowances.
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Thread:
- Use a strong thread that matches the color of the fabric.
- Consider using a heavier thread weight such as a 40 or 50-weight for added durability.
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Sewing machine:
- Ensure the machine is properly threaded and has a needle suitable for the fabric type.
- Adjust the stitch length to a medium setting (e.g., 2.5-3 mm).
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Scissors:
- Sharp scissors for cutting fabric and thread.
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Iron and ironing board:
- For pressing seams flat and crisp.
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Measuring tape or ruler:
- For accurate measurement and marking.
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Fabric marker or chalk:
- For marking lines and angles on the fabric.
Preparation:
1. **Calculate the fabric length:**
– Measure the perimeter of the item you wish to bind.
– Multiply this measurement by 2 plus the desired overlap length (typically 1-2 inches).
– Add 1/2 to 3/4 inch for seam allowances.
– This will give you the total length of fabric needed for the binding strip.
2. **Cut the fabric strip:**
– Use the calculated length and desired width to cut a strip of fabric from the chosen material.
– Ensure the edges are straight and clean.
3. **Mark the binding strip:**
– Divide the strip into four equal parts and mark the divisions with chalk or fabric marker.
– Fold the strip in half lengthwise and press the crease.
– Mark the halfway point on the short ends of the strip.
Measuring and Cutting the Binding Strips
Determine the Binding Width: Decide on the width of the finished binding. This typically ranges from 1″ to 1.5″, depending on the size and thickness of your project.
Cutting the Warp Strips:
Calculate the Length: Measure the perimeter of the project’s longest edge (including any curves or indentations). Multiply this value by 2 for the length of the warp strips.
Determine the Width: The warp strips should be twice the desired finished binding width plus 1/2″. For example, if your finished binding is 1.25″ wide, the warp strips should be 3.25″ wide (1.25″ x 2 + 1/2″).
Fold and Iron the Strips: Fold each warp strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press to create a crease down the center.
Cutting the Weft Strips:
Calculate the Length: Measure the perimeter of the project’s shortest edge. Multiply this value by 2 for the length of the weft strips.
Determine the Width: The weft strips should be the same width as the warp strips, including the additional 1/2″ for the seam allowance.
Cut the Strips: Use a rotary cutter or scissors to cut the strips to the desired length and width.
| Binding Width (Finished) | Warp Strip Width | Weft Strip Width |
|---|---|---|
| 1″ | 2.5″ | 2.5″ |
| 1.25″ | 3.25″ | 3.25″ |
| 1.5″ | 4″ | 4″ |
Joining the Binding Strips
To achieve a seamless and professional-looking binding, it’s crucial to join the binding strips precisely.
Method 1: Diagonal Joining (Bias Binding)
In diagonal joining, the strips are cut on a 45-degree angle to the grain line. This creates a more flexible and delicate binding, suitable for curved edges.
Method 2: Cross-Grain Joining
For cross-grain joining, the strips are cut perpendicular to the grain line of the fabric. This method is less flexible than diagonal joining but provides a more structured and durable binding.
Method 3: Mitered Binding
Mitering the binding strips creates a sharp and angled corner at the joining points. This method is ideal for rectangular or right-angled edges.
Mitering the Binding Strips (Detailed Instructions)
- Trim the ends of the binding strips to a point.
- Place one strip on top of the other, aligning the point of one strip with the edge of the other.
- Sew a straight line from the point of the top strip to the edge of the bottom strip.
- Trim the excess fabric from the corner, leaving a small amount of overlap.
- Fold the overlap flat and top-stitch around the corner to secure it.
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Diagonal Joining | Flexible, delicate | Less durable |
| Cross-Grain Joining | Structured, durable | Less flexible |
| Mitered Binding | Sharp angled corners | Requires precise mitering |
Attaching the Binding to the Quilt
Once the binding is prepared, it’s time to attach it to the quilt. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Start in the Center of One Side
Position the binding in the center of one side of the quilt, with the raw edge of the binding aligned with the raw edge of the quilt.
- Pin and Stitch from Center Out
Pin the binding in place, starting at the center. Sew along the raw edge of the binding using a small stitch length, approximately 1/8 inch from the folded edge.
- Stop Just Before Reaching the Corner
Continue sewing until you reach about 2 inches from the corner of the quilt. Stop sewing and leave the needle down.
- Mitering the Corner
Holding the needle and thread in place, lift the presser foot and carefully fold the binding back towards the center of the quilt. Align the 45-degree edge with the corner of the quilt. Keep the needle down to hold the fold in place. Lower the presser foot and sew a straight line across the folded edge, diagonally towards the corner. Pivot the fabric and sew along the other side of the fold, creating a mitered corner. Raise the presser foot, lift the needle out of the fabric, and remove the quilt from the machine.
| Mitering Corner Basics |
|---|
| Align the binding |
| Sew across the fold |
| Pivot the fabric |
| Sew the other side of the fold |
| Raise the presser foot and remove the quilt |
Trim any excess thread and fold the binding over the remaining raw edge of the quilt. Pin and sew the binding in place, continuing to sew from the corner out. Stop sewing just before reaching the next corner and repeat the mitering process.
Continue around the quilt, mitering each corner and securing the binding with pins and stitches. When you reach the starting point, trim the excess binding and sew the ends together securely.
Mitering the Corners
Mitering the corners of the binding requires careful folding and cutting to create a clean, precise fit.
1. Fold Over the Binding: Fold one edge of the binding strip over the edge of the quilt top by 1/4 inch, forming a crease. Press the crease firmly.
2. Open Out the Binding: Open out the binding and fold the other edge over the quilt top, aligning it with the previous crease. Press again.
3. Mark the Corner: At the corner, mark the point where the two folds intersect. This will be the center of the miter.
4. Fold the Diagonal Crease: Fold the binding over at a 45-degree angle, aligning the center of the miter with the edge of the quilt. Press the diagonal crease firmly.
5. Cutting the Miter: This is a crucial step in creating a clean miter. With sharp scissors, cut into the corner along the diagonal crease, stopping just short of the center of the miter. The cut should extend about 1/8 inch on each side of the center point.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fold one edge of the binding over the quilt top by 1/4 inch and press. |
| 2 | Fold the other edge of the binding over and press. |
| 3 | Mark the point where the two folds intersect. |
| 4 | Fold the binding over at a 45-degree angle and press. |
| 5 | Cut into the corner along the diagonal crease, stopping short of the center point. |
Finishing the Binding
1. Fold the Ending Edge of the Binding Over the Cover
Fold the binding over the cover and bring the edges together at the corner of the book. Measure a 45-degree line from the point of the corner to the outside edge of the binding strip. Mark with a pencil.
2. Fold the Binding at a 45-Degree Angle
Fold the binding at the marked line, bringing the outside edge of the binding strip to the point of the corner. Crease the fold.
3. Continue Folding at 45-Degree Angles
Continue folding the binding in 45-degree increments, marking and creasing each fold as you go. Repeat this process for all four corners of the book.
4. Fold Over the Remaining Binding
Once all the corners are folded, fold the remaining binding over the back cover. Make sure the edges align smoothly.
5. Secure the Binding with Glue
Apply a thin line of glue along the inside edge of the binding. Press the binding down onto the cover, ensuring that it adheres securely.
6. Reinforce the Corners
For added durability, it’s recommended to reinforce the corners of the binding. You can do this by folding a small piece of linen or bookbinding paper over each corner and securing it with glue or thread.
| Materials Needed | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Linen or bookbinding paper | Reinforcing the corners of the binding |
| Glue or thread | Securing the reinforcing material |
Pressing and Shaping the Binding
1. Press the Binding’s Edge
Use a hot iron to press the raw edge of the binding inward by about 1/4 inch. This will help prevent fraying and create a clean finish.
2. Fold the Binding in Half
Fold the pressed binding in half lengthwise, with the pressed edge lying inside the fold. Press the crease firmly.
3. Trim the Excess Binding
Measure and cut the binding to the desired length, leaving enough extra to overlap at the corners. Trim any excess binding at an angle to prevent bulk.
4. Miter the Corners
Cut the binding at a 45-degree angle at each corner. This creates a mitered corner that will fold smoothly without puckering.
5. Join the Binding at the Corners
Overlap the mitered ends of the binding and sew them together securely using a slip stitch.
6. Press the Seams
Press the seams between the binding and the fabric to set them and create a flat finish.
7. Shape the Binding
To create a rolled binding, use a small tool or your fingernail to roll the raw edge of the binding under. For a flat binding, press the raw edge flat against the fabric. Secure the binding in place with a few stitches, making sure to catch both the binding and the fabric.
| Binding Type | Shaping Technique |
|---|---|
| Rolled Binding | Roll the raw edge under |
| Flat Binding | Press the raw edge flat |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Binding is too loose or too tight
If the binding is too loose, the fabric may not be pulled tightly enough around the book block. If the binding is too tight, the book block may be damaged or the fabric may stretch out of shape.
Binding is not aligned correctly
If the binding is not aligned correctly, the fabric may not be folded over the edge of the book block or the stitching may be uneven. This can cause the book to look sloppy and make it difficult to open or close.
Binding is coming apart
If the binding is coming apart, the stitches may not be strong enough or the fabric may be tearing. This can be caused by using the wrong thread or needle size, or by sewing too quickly.
Binding is not square
If the binding is not square, the book block may not be positioned correctly in the cover or the fabric may not be folded over the edges evenly. This can make the book look unfinished and make it difficult to stand up on its own.
Binding is too bulky
If the binding is too bulky, the book may be difficult to hold or carry. This can be caused by using too much fabric or by sewing the stitches too close together.
Binding is not flat
If the binding is not flat, the book may not open or close properly. This can be caused by using the wrong fabric or by not ironing the fabric before sewing it.
Binding is not secure
If the binding is not secure, the book block may fall out of the cover. This can be caused by using the wrong type of adhesive or by not applying it properly.
Binding is not attractive
If the binding is not attractive, it may not be a good representation of the book. This can be caused by using the wrong fabric or by not taking the time to finish the binding properly.
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|—|—|—|
| Binding is too loose | Fabric is not pulled tightly enough | Pull the fabric tighter before sewing |
| Binding is too tight | Fabric is stretched out of shape | Use a lighter fabric or a smaller needle size |
| Binding is not aligned correctly | Fabric is not folded over correctly | Refold the fabric and sew it in a straight line |
| Binding is coming apart | Stitches are not strong enough | Use a stronger thread or needle size |
| Binding is not square | Book block is not positioned correctly in the cover | Reposition the book block and sew it in place |
| Binding is too bulky | Too much fabric is used | Use less fabric or sew the stitches further apart |
| Binding is not flat | Fabric is not ironed | Iron the fabric before sewing it |
| Binding is not secure | Adhesive is not applied properly | Apply the adhesive correctly and let it dry completely |
| Binding is not attractive | Fabric is not suitable | Use a more attractive fabric |
Tips for Achieving a Professional Finish
For flawless angled bindings, follow these expert tips:
1. Measure and Cut Accurately
Ensure that your binding fabric is the correct size by carefully measuring and cutting it.
2. Fold and Press Precisely
Fold and press the binding fabric along the crease lines for sharp and crisp edges.
3. Align and Stitch Evenly
Align the binding along the edge of the quilt and stitch evenly for a secure and professional seam.
4. Miter the Corners
To create clean and precise corners, miter the binding fabric by folding and trimming it at a 45-degree angle.
5. Secure the Corners
Keep the corners in place by hand-stitching them or using a corner clamp for a tight hold.
6. Use a Binding Tool
Utilize a binding tool to fold and attach the binding for ease and accuracy.
7. Conceal the Raw Edges
Flip the binding to the back of the quilt and hand-stitch or machine-stitch it down to hide the raw edges.
8. Double-Fold the Edges
For extra durability and a decorative touch, double-fold the binding edges before stitching them down.
9. Bias Binding for Curves
For curved edges, use bias binding to create a flexible and seamless finish.
Steps for Bias Binding:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Cut fabric at a 45-degree angle. |
| 2 | Fold in half lengthwise, pressing. |
| 3 | Apply to the curved edge, pinning and stitching. |
| 4 | Fold and tuck the excess fabric under, securing with stitches. |
Materials
Angled binding is a great way to add a decorative touch to your quilts. It’s also a surprisingly easy technique to master. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create beautiful angled binding that will make your quilts look professional.
Tools
To make angled binding, you will need the following tools:
- A sewing machine
- A rotary cutter and mat
- A ruler
- Fabric scissors
- Thread
- Bias binding tape
- An iron and ironing board
Instructions
To make angled binding, follow these steps:
- Cut a bias binding tape that is 2 1/2 inches wide.
- Fold the bias binding tape in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press the fold.
- Fold the raw edges of the bias binding tape to the center fold. Press the folds.
- Fold the bias binding tape in half again, wrong sides together. Press the fold.
- Sew the bias binding tape to the edge of your quilt using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
- Fold the bias binding tape over the edge of the quilt and press it down.
- Sew the bias binding tape to the back of the quilt using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
- Trim the excess bias binding tape.
- Turn the quilt over and press the binding down.
- Enjoy your beautifully bound quilt!
Creative Variations on Angled Binding
There are many ways to get creative with angled binding. Here are a few ideas:
- Use different colors or fabrics for the bias binding tape.
- Sew the bias binding tape at an angle to create a chevron pattern.
- Add embellishments to the bias binding tape, such as beads or sequins.
- Use a wider bias binding tape to create a more dramatic look.
- Layer two or more bias binding tapes together to create a unique effect.
- Experiment with different folding techniques to create different looks.
| Variation | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Chevron binding | Sew the bias binding tape at a 45-degree angle to the edge of the quilt. |
| Beaded binding | Add beads to the bias binding tape before sewing it to the quilt. |
| Layered binding | Sew two or more layers of bias binding tape together, alternating the colors or fabrics. |
How To Sew Perfect Angled Binding
Angled binding is a beautiful and versatile technique that can be used to add a touch of elegance to any quilt or other fabric project. It’s also a great way to use up scraps of fabric. However, angled binding can be tricky to sew, so it’s important to take your time and follow the steps carefully.
To sew perfect angled binding, you will need the following:
- Binding fabric
- Quilt or other fabric project
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Iron and ironing board
Once you have gathered your materials, you can begin sewing your angled binding. Here are the steps:
- Cut your binding fabric into strips that are 2 1/2 inches wide.
- Fold one end of each strip in half, wrong sides together, and press.
- Open up the folded end and fold each side in towards the center crease. Press.
- Fold the strip in half again, wrong sides together, and press.
- Sew the binding to the quilt or other fabric project, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
- When you come to a corner, miter the binding by cutting the excess fabric at a 45-degree angle.
- Fold the binding over the corner and sew it down.
- Continue sewing the binding around the entire quilt or fabric project.
- When you have finished sewing the binding, turn it to the back of the quilt or fabric project and hand-sew it down.
People Also Ask
How do you miter angled binding?
To miter angled binding, cut the excess fabric at a 45-degree angle. Fold the binding over the corner and sew it down.
How do you sew angled binding on a quilt?
To sew angled binding on a quilt, follow the steps outlined in the article above. Be sure to miter the binding at each corner.
What is the best fabric for angled binding?
The best fabric for angled binding is a lightweight fabric that is easy to fold and press. Some good choices include cotton, cotton blends, and silk.
