Quilting is an art form with a long and storied history. One of the most important steps in the quilting process is binding the quilt. The binding not only finishes the quilt and gives it a polished look, but it also helps to protect the edges of the quilt from fraying. Binding a quilt can seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple. With the right tools and a little bit of practice, you can easily bind a quilt like a pro.
The first step in binding a quilt is to choose the right fabric. The binding fabric should be a cotton or cotton blend that is similar in weight to the quilt fabric. You will also need to decide how wide you want the binding to be. The most common width for binding is 2 1/2 inches, but you can make it wider or narrower if you prefer. Once you have chosen the fabric and width of the binding, you can cut the strips. The strips should be cut on the bias, which means that they are cut at a 45-degree angle to the selvedge. This will help to prevent the binding from stretching out of shape.
Once you have cut the strips, you can sew them together to create the binding. The binding can be sewn by hand or by machine. If you are sewing the binding by hand, you will need to use a blind stitch. This stitch will help to hide the stitches and give the binding a professional finish. If you are sewing the binding by machine, you can use a zigzag stitch or a straight stitch. The zigzag stitch will help to prevent the binding from fraying, while the straight stitch will create a more subtle finish. Once you have sewn the binding, you can attach it to the quilt. The binding can be attached by hand or by machine. If you are attaching the binding by hand, you will need to use a blind stitch. This stitch will help to hide the stitches and give the binding a professional finish. If you are attaching the binding by machine, you can use a zigzag stitch or a straight stitch. The zigzag stitch will help to prevent the binding from fraying, while the straight stitch will create a more subtle finish.
Preparing the Quilt for Binding
Binding, the final step in quiltmaking, gives your quilt a finished, polished look and protects its edges from fraying. Before you start binding, it’s crucial to prepare your quilt properly to ensure a successful outcome.
Measuring the Quilt
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Measure the quilt’s width and length carefully, including the seam allowances. Add 8 inches to each measurement to determine the amount of fabric needed for the binding strips.
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To calculate the length of the binding strip, multiply the quilt’s perimeter by 2, adding 12 inches for joining the strips.
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Cut the fabric strips from a suitable binding fabric, making sure they are at least 2 ¼ inches wide.
Preparing the Binding Strips
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Fold each binding strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press well.
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Unfold the strip and fold each edge under by ½ inch, towards the center crease. Press again.
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Refold the strip along the original center crease, enclosing the raw edges. Press one final time.
Gathering Materials
- In addition to the binding strips, gather the following materials:
- Quilt needle and thread
- Matching thread
- Scissors
- Iron and ironing board
- Seam gauge or ruler
- Binder clips or quilting pins
- Bias tape (optional)
Selecting and Cutting the Binding Fabric
Choosing the right binding fabric is crucial for the overall aesthetics of your quilt. Consider the following factors:
- Coordinating Color and Pattern: Select a fabric that complements or contrasts the quilt’s colors and patterns. Avoid using fabrics that are too similar to the quilt, as they can blend in and detract from the quilt’s design.
- Weight and Texture: The binding should be slightly heavier than the quilt fabric to provide durability and support. For delicate quilts, opt for a lighter-weight binding to avoid overwhelming the quilt. Consider using a fabric with a similar texture to the quilt for a cohesive look.
- Bias Strips: Bindings are typically cut on the bias to reduce fraying and prevent puckering. Cutting the binding fabric on the bias also provides added flexibility, allowing the binding to curve around corners without distorting.
Steps for Cutting Bias Binding Strips:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Determine the desired width of the binding. Typically, bindings are 2-2.5 inches wide. |
| 2 | Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, with the selvages aligned. |
| 3 | Fold the fabric in half again, this time bringing the raw edges together. |
| 4 | Using a ruler and rotary cutter, cut strips parallel to the folded edge. The width of the strips will depend on the desired binding width. |
| 5 | Unfold the strips and press them flat. |
Note: If you do not have a rotary cutter or are not comfortable cutting on the bias, you can purchase pre-cut bias binding strips from fabric stores or online suppliers.
Joining the Binding Strips
Once you have cut your binding strips, you need to join them together to create a long enough strip to bind your quilt. There are a few different ways to do this, but the most common method is to use a diagonal seam. The diagonal seam is strong and will help to keep the binding from fraying.
To create a diagonal seam, you will need to overlap the two binding strips by about 1 inch. Then, sew a diagonal line across the overlap, starting about 1/4 inch from the top and ending about 1/4 inch from the bottom. Trim off the excess fabric, and press the seam open.
Once you have joined the binding strips, you can continue sewing them together until you have a strip that is long enough to bind your quilt. Be sure to overlap the strips by at least 1 inch, and to press the seams open after each seam is sewn.
Alternative Joining Methods
There are several alternative methods to join your binding strips. Using a square seam is more work but can produce a more tailored finish. You can also use mitered corners. This technique is more challenging but can create a very sharp and professional appearance. Whichever method you use, be sure to join the strips securely so that the binding will be durable and long-lasting.
Here is a table summarizing the different binding strip joining methods:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Diagonal seam | Strong, easy to do | Not as tailored as other methods |
| Square seam | Strong, tailored | More work than diagonal seam |
| Mitered corners | Tailored, professional | Challenging to do |
Attaching the Binding to the Quilt Top
With the quilt top and binding strips prepared, it’s time to attach the binding to the quilt top. This process involves carefully sewing the binding strips around the edges of the quilt, creating a neat and finished look.
Hand-Sewing the Binding
This traditional method offers precision and control. Use a needle and thread to stitch the binding to the quilt top along the folded edge. Make small, even stitches, ensuring that the binding completely covers the raw edges of the quilt.
Machine-Sewing the Binding
This faster method can save time. Use a sewing machine to stitch the binding to the quilt top, following the same technique as hand-sewing. Adjust the stitch length to create a secure and invisible seam.
Detailed Guide to Machine-Sewing the Binding:
Step 1: Sew around the quilt edge with a scant 1/4-inch seam allowance, catching the binding in the seam.
Step 2: Fold the binding over the raw edge of the quilt and press.
Step 3: Stitch the binding down by topstitching along the inner crease, about 1/8-inch from the raw edge of the quilt.
Step 4: Miter the corners to create a neat finish. To do this:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| a) | Stop sewing about an inch from the corner. |
| b) | Trim the binding strip diagonally across the corner, leaving about 1/2 inch of binding on each side. |
| c) | Fold the binding strips back and press. |
| d) | Continue sewing the binding down around the corner. |
Step 5: Trim any excess binding and turn the raw edge of the binding under and stitch down.
Sewing the Binding in Place
Once the binding is attached to the quilt, it’s time to sew it in place. This can be done by hand or machine. If sewing by hand, use a small, sharp needle and thread that matches the color of the binding. If sewing by machine, use a straight stitch and a size 70/10 needle.
To sew the binding in place by hand, start by folding the binding over the edge of the quilt, so that the wrong side of the binding is facing the wrong side of the quilt. Sew the binding in place using a blind stitch. To do this, insert the needle into the binding, just behind the fold, and bring it out through the quilt, about 1/4 inch from the edge. Insert the needle back into the binding, just behind the previous stitch, and bring it out through the quilt, about 1/4 inch from the edge. Continue sewing in this manner, all the way around the quilt. If sewing by hand, take your time and be careful to sew evenly. If sewing by machine, be sure to use a straight stitch and a size 70/10 needle.
Tips for Sewing the Binding in Place
* Use a small, sharp needle.
* Thread your needle with thread that matches the color of the binding.
* Sew evenly all the way around the quilt.
* If sewing by hand, take your time.
* If sewing by machine, be sure to use a straight stitch and a size 70/10 needle.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for sewing the binding in place:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. | Fold the binding over the edge of the quilt, so that the wrong side of the binding is facing the wrong side of the quilt. |
| 2. | Sew the binding in place using a blind stitch. |
| 3. | To do this, insert the needle into the binding, just behind the fold, and bring it out through the quilt, about 1/4 inch from the edge. |
| 4. | Insert the needle back into the binding, just behind the previous stitch, and bring it out through the quilt, about 1/4 inch from the edge. |
| 5. | Continue sewing in this manner, all the way around the quilt. |
Trimming the Excess Fabric
After you have sewn the binding around the quilt, you need to trim the excess fabric. This will help to give the quilt a clean and finished look.
Here are the steps on how to trim the excess fabric:
1. Mark the Corners
Using a pencil or fabric marker, mark the corners of the quilt on the binding. This will help you to ensure that you trim the excess fabric evenly.
2. Fold the Binding over the Corners
Fold the binding over the corners of the quilt so that the raw edges are hidden. Use a few stitches to secure the binding in place.
3. Trim the Excess Fabric
Using a sharp pair of scissors, trim the excess fabric away from the edges of the quilt. Be careful not to cut into the quilt itself.
4. Miter the Corners
If you want to create a mitered corner, you will need to fold the binding over the corner at a 45-degree angle. Then, trim the excess fabric away from the edge of the quilt.
| Type of Corner | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Square Corner | Fold the binding over the corner and trim the excess fabric. |
| Mitered Corner | Fold the binding over the corner at a 45-degree angle and trim the excess fabric. |
5. Press the Binding
Once you have trimmed the excess fabric, press the binding with a hot iron. This will help to set the stitches and give the quilt a polished look.
6. Hand-Sew the Binding
If you are hand-sewing the binding, you can use a blind stitch to attach it to the quilt. This will help to create a invisible seam.
7. Use a Sewing Machine
If you are using a sewing machine to attach the binding, you can use a zigzag stitch or a topstitch. Be sure to use a matching thread color and to sew close to the edge of the quilt.
Pressing the Binding
Once the binding is applied, it’s time to press it. This serves several purposes:
- Sets the creases in the binding, giving it a crisp and professional finish.
- Flattens the seam allowance, making it less bulky and more comfortable to handle.
- Prepares the quilt for quilting or other finishing techniques.
Step 1: Set Up Your Iron
Set your iron to a medium heat setting appropriate for the fabric of your quilt and binding. Place a pressing cloth or quilters mitts on your ironing board to protect the fabric from direct heat.
Step 2: Press the Binding
Gently press the binding along each side, taking care not to stretch or distort the fabric. Focus on pressing the creases where the binding meets the quilt top and backing.
Step 3: Press the Binding Around Curves
For curves, use the side of the iron to gently shape and press the binding. Avoid pressing too hard or using the point of the iron, as this can cause puckering.
Step 4: Press the Seam Allowance
Once the binding is pressed, open it out and press the seam allowance flat. This will reduce bulk and make it easier to stitch.
Step 5: Press the Binding Ends
Fold the ends of the binding over and press them in place. This will create a mitered corner and give the quilt a clean finish.
Step 6: Top-Stitch the Binding
Once the binding is pressed, top-stitch it in place following the manufacturer’s instructions. This will secure the binding and give it a decorative touch.
Step 7: Trim Excess Binding
Trim any excess binding around the edges of the quilt. Use sharp scissors to ensure a clean cut.
Step 8: Other Pressing Tips
* Use a seam roller or ruler to help press sharp creases.
* If your fabric tends to scorch, use a pressing cloth or reduce the heat setting.
* Don’t press over pins or needles.
* Let the quilt cool completely before storing or folding it.
How to Apply Binding to a Quilt
Binding is the finishing touch that frames your quilt and gives it a polished look. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply binding:
**Materials:**
- Binding strips
- Needle and thread
- Scissors
- Iron and ironing board
- Quilt pins
**Instructions:**
- Cut your binding strips into 2.5-inch wide strips. You’ll need enough strips to go around the entire perimeter of your quilt, plus a few extra inches for joining.
- Sew the binding strips together end-to-end using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Press the seams open.
- Fold the binding strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press the fold.
- Pin the binding to the right side of the quilt, starting at the center of one side. Keep the raw edge of the binding even with the raw edge of the quilt.
- Sew the binding to the quilt using a blind stitch. To do this, insert the needle into the folded edge of the binding about 1/4 inch from the raw edge. Bring the needle up through the quilt, about 1/4 inch from the folded edge. Repeat this process, taking small stitches all the way around the quilt.
- When you come to the end of the binding, overlap the raw edges by about 1 inch. Fold the excess binding over the raw edge and sew it down using a slip stitch.
- Press the binding flat. Enjoy your beautifully finished quilt!
People Also Ask About How to Apply Binding to a Quilt
How do I make continuous quilt binding?
To make continuous quilt binding, cut your binding strips into 2.5-inch wide strips. Sew the strips together end-to-end using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Press the seams open. Fold the binding strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press the fold. Join the ends of the binding strip together using a mitered corner. To do this, fold one end of the binding strip over the other at a 45-degree angle. Press the fold. Fold the other end of the binding strip over the first fold at a 45-degree angle. Press the fold. Sew the mitered corner together using a blind stitch.
How do I miter the corners of quilt binding?
To miter the corners of quilt binding, fold one end of the binding strip over the other at a 45-degree angle. Press the fold. Fold the other end of the binding strip over the first fold at a 45-degree angle. Press the fold. Sew the mitered corner together using a blind stitch.
How do I hand sew quilt binding?
To hand sew quilt binding, fold the binding strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press the fold. Pin the binding to the right side of the quilt, starting at the center of one side. Keep the raw edge of the binding even with the raw edge of the quilt. Using a needle and thread, sew the binding to the quilt using a blind stitch. To do this, insert the needle into the folded edge of the binding about 1/4 inch from the raw edge. Bring the needle up through the quilt, about 1/4 inch from the folded edge. Repeat this process, taking small stitches all the way around the quilt.
