Introduction to Quilt Binding
Quilt Binding is the final step in the quilt-making process. It involves covering the raw edges of the quilt to give it a finished look and protect its edges from wear and tear.
A well-bound quilt can last for generations, making binding not just an aesthetic choice but also an important preservation technique.
There are many methods of binding a quilt, but the most common is the double-fold binding, which is known for its durability and clean finish.
Quilt Binding Tutorial
- Preparing the Binding Strips
- Cut strips of fabric on the bias or along the grain, depending on the desired flexibility.
- Join the strips end-to-end to create one long strip.
- Press the strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together.
- Attaching the Binding to the Quilt
- Align the raw edges of the binding strip with the raw edges of the quilt.
- Sew the binding to the quilt using a sewing machine or hand stitching.
- Miter the corners for a neat, angled fold.
- Finishing the Binding
- Once the binding is attached, fold it over to the back of the quilt.
- Hand stitch the folded edge of the binding to the back of the quilt.
- Ensure the stitches are even and secure for a polished look.
| Step | Description | Tools Needed |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Preparing the Binding Strips | Cutting and pressing fabric strips to create the binding. | Ruler, Rotary Cutter, Iron |
| 2. Attaching the Binding | Sewing the binding to the quilt’s edges and mitering the corners. | Sewing Machine or Needle and Thread |
| 3. Finishing the Binding | Hand stitching the binding’s folded edge to the back of the quilt. | Needle, Thread, Thimble (optional) |
Materials Needed for Binding a Quilt
Before beginning the binding process, you will need to gather a few essential materials. You will need binding fabric, which is typically a strip of fabric that coordinates with the quilt. You’ll also need a rotary cutter, a cutting mat, and a straight edge to cut the binding strips accurately. Additionally, have on hand some matching thread, a sewing machine, and hand sewing needles for attaching the binding to the quilt.
Calculating Fabric for Binding
To calculate the amount of fabric needed for binding, measure the perimeter of your quilt and add 10 to 12 inches to allow for mitered corners and joining ends. The width of the binding strips typically ranges from 2 to 2 1/2 inches, depending on the desired finished width. Once you have the total length needed, divide it by the width of the fabric to determine how many strips you’ll need to cut. Remember to take into account the seam allowance when sewing strips together.
Cutting and Preparing Binding Strips
Using your rotary cutter and straight edge, cut the binding strips to the required width. To create a continuous piece of binding, you will need to join the strips at a 45-degree angle. This reduces bulk and ensures a smooth finish. Sew the strips together end to end, press the seams open, and then fold the strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, pressing well to create a strong, crisp edge.
Read more about Mewing Tutorial.
Attaching the Binding to the Quilt
Begin by aligning the raw edges of the binding with the raw edges of the quilt. Start sewing a few inches from the end of the binding strip, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. When approaching a corner, stop 1/4 inch before the edge and backstitch. Remove the quilt from the machine, fold the binding up, then down to create a mitered corner, and continue sewing. This technique allows for neat and tidy corners on your finished quilt.
Joining the Binding Ends
When you return to the starting point, leave an unsewn gap of about 10 inches. To join the ends of the binding, lay them flat against the quilt and mark where they intersect. Overlap the strips and cut them at the marked point, allowing for a seam allowance. Sew the ends together at a 45-degree angle, press the seam open, and then finish sewing the binding to the quilt.
Finishing the Binding by Hand
After attaching the binding to the front of the quilt, fold it over to the back to cover the raw edges. To secure the binding in place, you can hand stitch it using a blind stitch or slip stitch. This method of hand finishing gives you control over the neatness of the stitches and ensures a nearly invisible seam.
Machine Finishing Techniques
For those who prefer to finish their quilts entirely by machine, you can use a decorative stitch or a straight stitch to sew the binding down. This method is faster and can be just as durable as hand stitching. Be sure to use a walking foot on your sewing machine to help feed the layers evenly and prevent puckering.
Troubleshooting Common Binding Issues
Sometimes, you may encounter issues such as wavy edges or uneven binding. This can be caused by not cutting the binding strips on the grain or pulling the binding too tight during attachment. To avoid these problems, measure carefully, sew with a consistent seam allowance, and do not stretch the binding as you attach it to the quilt.
Adding a Personal Touch to Your Binding
Quilt binding offers an opportunity to add a personal touch to your project. Consider using a contrasting color or a print fabric to make the binding stand out. You can also experiment with flange binding, which incorporates a small accent color, or try scalloped or piped binding for a decorative effect. The possibilities are endless, and they allow you to showcase your creativity and enhance the overall design of your quilt.
Read more articles about this topic Shibari Tutorial here.
Conclusion
Binding a quilt may seem daunting at first, but with practice, it becomes an enjoyable part of the quilting process. It’s the final step that showcases your hard work and adds the finishing touch to your creation. Whether you choose to hand stitch or machine finish your binding, the effort you put into this last detail will ensure that your quilt is cherished for years to come. Happy quilting!