Binding is an important final step in quilting that can really make your piece shine. It not only secures the layers of quilt together, but it also provides an opportunity to add an extra touch of style and personality to your project. There are many different ways to bind a quilt, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we’ll walk you through the most popular methods, so you can choose the one that’s right for your needs.
For an experienced quilter, binding a quilt is a relatively quick and easy process that can be completed in an afternoon. However, if you’re new to quilting, it’s important to take your time and learn the techniques properly. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to bind your quilts like a pro!
Now that you have a basic understanding of quilt binding, let’s get started! In this section, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions for the two most popular binding methods: machine binding and hand binding. We’ll also provide tips and tricks for making your binding look its best. So grab your quilt and let’s get started!
Preparing the Quilt Top
The first step in binding a quilt is to prepare the quilt top. This involves squaring up the top, trimming any excess fabric, and adding a backing and batting. Here’s a detailed guide to each step:
Squaring Up the Quilt Top
The first step is to square up the quilt top. This means making sure that all four sides are equal in length and that the corners are right angles. To do this, use a large ruler or yardstick to measure the length of each side. If any side is longer than the others, trim off the excess fabric. Then, measure the diagonal distance from each corner to the opposite corner. If the two diagonals are not equal, the quilt top is not square. To fix this, fold the quilt top in half diagonally and make sure that the two edges line up. Then, pin the edges together and sew them down to create a straight line. This will square up the quilt top.
Selecting and Cutting Binding Fabric
Choosing the Fabric
The binding fabric plays a vital role in the overall appearance and durability of your quilt. Consider the following factors when making your selection:
- Color and Pattern: The binding should complement the quilt’s design and colors. It can be a solid color, a print that matches the quilt, or a contrasting fabric to create a bold statement.
- Weight and Texture: Choose a binding fabric that is slightly heavier than the quilt top but still soft and pliable. Cotton, linen, or flannel are popular choices.
- Durability: The binding will be exposed to wear and tear, so opt for a fabric that is durable and will not fray easily.
The width of the binding will determine how much fabric you need to purchase. The most common width for binding is 2.5 inches. For a standard sized quilt, you will need approximately 10-12 yards of fabric.
Cutting the Binding Strips
Once you have selected your fabric, cut the binding strips using a rotary cutter and ruler. The length of each strip will depend on the size of your quilt and the width of the binding. To calculate the required length, measure the perimeter of your quilt (plus a few inches for overlap) and then divide that number by the width of the binding.
For example, if your quilt measures 60 inches by 72 inches and you are using 2.5-inch wide binding, you would need to cut:
| Perimeter of quilt: | 60 + 72 + 60 + 72 = 264 inches |
| Number of strips: | 264 รท 2.5 = 105.6 |
| Rounded up to the nearest whole number: | 106 strips |
Cut each strip to the calculated length, ensuring that they are all straight and even.
Joining Binding Strips
Once you have cut the binding strips in the desired width and length, you need to join them to create a continuous length. There are two main methods for joining binding strips: straight-line joining and miter joining. Both methods are relatively easy, but miter joining creates a cleaner, more professional-looking finish.
**Straight-line Joining**
To join binding strips using the straight-line method, simply place the ends of the strips together and sew them using a straight stitch. You can either sew by hand or use a sewing machine. If sewing by hand, use a small, sharp needle and thread. If using a sewing machine, use a regular needle and thread and set the stitch length to medium.
| Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Straight-line Joining |
|
| Miter Joining |
|
**Miter Joining**
To join binding strips using the miter method, follow these steps:
- Fold back one strip about 2 inches.
- Place the other strip on top of the folded strip, aligning the raw edges.
- Sew the strips together along the raw edges, starting about 1/2 inch from the folded edge.
- Unfold the folded strip and trim the excess fabric close to the seam.
- Repeat steps 1-4 to join the remaining binding strips.
Measuring and Pinning the Binding
1. Calculate the Binding Length
Measure the perimeter of your quilt top with a measuring tape, including the selvages. Multiply this number by 2 to account for both the front and back of the binding.
2. Determine the Width of the Binding
You can choose the width of your binding based on personal preference or the size of your quilt. A standard binding width is 2.5 inches (6.35 cm).
3. Cut the Binding Strips
Cut strips of fabric that are the desired width of your binding and the length calculated in Step 1.
4. Join the Binding Strips
| Binding Width | Joining Method |
|---|---|
| 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) | End-to-end with a diagonal seam |
| 3 inches (7.62 cm) | End-to-end with a square seam |
| 4 inches (10.16 cm) | Continuous strip with a mitered corner seam |
To join end-to-end with a diagonal seam:
- Overlap the ends of two binding strips by 1 inch (2.54 cm).
- Cut the overlapped portion diagonally from one corner to the opposite corner.
- Sew the binding strips together along the diagonal seam.
To join end-to-end with a square seam:
- Overlap the ends of two binding strips by 1 inch (2.54 cm).
- Trim the excess fabric from the outer edge of the strip.
- Sew the binding strips together parallel to the raw edges.
To join a continuous strip with a mitered corner seam:
- Create a 45-degree angle cut on the end of the binding strip.
- Overlap the angled edge of the binding strip over the second strip by 1/2 inch (1.27 cm).
- Fold the second strip over the angled edge and sew the binding strips together at a 45-degree angle.
Machine Sewing the Binding
1. Trim the Binding
Trim the binding strips to a uniform width of 2.5 inches. Be sure to trim them straight and accurately, as any unevenness will show in the finished quilt.
2. Join the Binding Strips
Join the binding strips together end-to-end with a diagonal seam. Trim the excess fabric from the corners to reduce bulk.
3. Press the Binding
Press the binding strips in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. This will create a crisp and neat edge that will be easy to sew.
4. Pin the Binding
Pin the binding around the edges of the quilt, raw edges aligned. Use a sharp pin to create a small stitch every few inches.
5. Machine Stitch the Binding
Switch your sewing machine to a zigzag stitch, and adjust the stitch width to the thickness of your binding (typically 2.5mm). Start sewing at one corner of the quilt and continue along the entire perimeter, taking small stitches (about 2-3 stitches per inch) to ensure a secure hold.
Use the following table as a reference for the best zigzag stitch settings for different fabric weights:
| Fabric Weight | Stitch Width |
|---|---|
| Lightweight | 2.0-2.5mm |
| Medium-weight | 2.5-3.0mm |
| Heavyweight | 3.0-3.5mm |
As you sew, keep the binding taut and smooth to prevent puckering or unevenness. When you reach the end of the binding, overlap the raw edges slightly and trim any excess fabric.
Hand Stitching the Binding
Hand stitching the binding is a traditional method that provides a secure and long-lasting finish. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Materials:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Binding | Strips of fabric used to wrap around the edges of the quilt |
| Needle | Sharp needle, size 5-7 |
| Thread | Matching or contrasting thread |
| Thimble | Optional, for protection |
Steps:
1. Trim the excess binding: Fold the binding over the edge of the quilt and trim any excess fabric.
2. Secure the binding with pins: Pin the binding around the quilt, ensuring it lies flat and evenly distributed.
3. Start stitching: Begin stitching at one corner, using a small backstitch to secure the thread.
4. Use a blind stitch: Take small, even stitches that catch only the back of the binding and the edge of the quilt top.
5. Continue stitching: Work around the quilt, carefully stitching the binding in place.
6. Mitered corners: For a professional finish, create mitered corners by overlapping the binding at the corners and stitching diagonally. To do this:
– Fold the binding from both sides over the corner, creating an overlap.
– Trim the excess fabric at a 45-degree angle.
– Unfold the binding and stitch along the diagonal edge.
– Repeat for the other side of the corner.
7. Finish the stitching: When you reach the starting corner, secure the thread with a knot or a backstitch. Trim any excess thread.
Trimming and Finishing the Binding
1. Trimming the Corners
Once the binding is sewn around the quilt, trim any excess fabric from the corners. Carefully cut away the fabric that extends beyond the edge of the quilt, leaving about 1/4 inch of overlap.
2. Mitering the Corners
To create a mitered corner, fold the binding at a 45-degree angle at the corner. The raw edges should extend beyond the edge of the quilt by about 1/4 inch. Trim the excess fabric along the folded edge.
3. Joining the Corners
Place the mitered corners together and stitch them securely. Use a small stitch length to ensure a strong hold.
4. Pressing the Binding
Turn the binding to the back of the quilt and press it flat using an iron and a pressing cloth. This will help to flatten the seams and give the binding a crisp finish.
5. Top-Stitching the Binding
To secure the binding permanently, top-stitch it around the entire quilt. Stitch close to the edge of the binding, using a small stitch length.
6. Finishing the Edges
Hem the raw edges of the binding by folding them under by about 1/4 inch and top-stitching them in place. This will prevent fraying and give the quilt a professional finish.
7. Detailed Guide to Mitering Corners
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fold the binding at a 45-degree angle at the corner. |
| 2 | Trim the excess fabric along the folded edge, leaving about 1/4 inch of overlap. |
| 3 | Unfold the binding and fold it the opposite way, again at a 45-degree angle. |
| 4 | Trim the excess fabric along the second folded edge, again leaving about 1/4 inch of overlap. |
| 5 | Place the two mitered edges together and stitch them securely. |
Binding Corners with Miters
Mitering corners produces beautiful, seamless joins that enhance the overall look of your quilt. Follow these detailed steps for a professional-looking finish:
**Materials:**
Quilt
Binding fabric
Scissors
Iron and ironing board
Thread
Sewing machine
Note: To determine the length of binding fabric needed for each side, measure the length of the side and add 10 inches for mitering.
1. Prepare the Binding Strips
Cut strips of binding fabric according to the lengths calculated for each side.
2. Fold and Press Binding Strips
Fold each binding strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press.
3. Join Binding Strips
Lay two binding strips end-to-end, overlapping 1-2 inches. Sew the strips together along the folded edge.
4. Prepare the Quilt
Lay the quilt flat with the right side facing up.
5. Pin the Binding to the Quilt
Starting at the center of one side, pin the binding strip to the quilt edge, right sides together. Make sure that the raw edges of the binding are aligned with the raw edges of the quilt.
6. Sew the Binding
Starting at the center, sew the binding strip to the quilt using a small stitch. Fold the binding over the quilt edge and pin it in place as you sew.
7. Trim Excess Binding
Once you reach the corner, trim any excess binding 1/4 inch from the miter.
8. Fold and Secure the Miter
Fold the remaining binding over the quilt edge, forming a 45-degree angle. Press the miter flat. Fold the other binding strip over the miter, overlapping by 1-2 inches. Sew the strips together at the miter to secure it.
| Step | Description |
|—|—|
| a) Trim excess binding | Cut off excess binding 1/4 inch from the miter. |
| b) Fold binding | Fold remaining binding over quilt edge, forming a 45-degree angle. |
| c) Press miter | Press folded binding flat to create a sharp miter. |
| d) Fold other binding | Bring other binding strip over the miter, overlapping by 1-2 inches. |
| e) Sew | Sew the strips together at the miter to secure it. |
9. Repeat for Remaining Corners
Repeat steps 7-8 for the remaining corners of the quilt.
10. Machine Quilt the Binding
Once all corners are mitered and secured, machine quilt the binding in place to conceal the raw edges.
Binding Curves
Binding curves requires some extra precision and care to ensure a smooth and even finish. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide for binding curves:
1. Mark the Seam Allowance
Mark the seam allowance on the binding strip, typically 1/4 inch.
2. Fold and Press
Fold the binding strip in half lengthwise, with the wrong sides together, and press.
3. Clip the Corners
Clip the corners of the binding strip at a 45-degree angle, just past the seam allowance.
4. Sew Around the Inner Curve
Align the folded edge of the binding strip with the raw edge of the quilt along the inner curve. Start sewing at the starting point of the curve and sew around the entire curve. Keep the binding taut and sew as close to the edge as possible.
5. Trim the Excess Binding
Trim the excess binding strip, leaving about 1/4 inch of overlap at the starting point.
6. Miter the Outer Corner
Fold the binding strip at the outer corner to create a 45-degree angle. Trim the excess binding strip at the fold line.
7. Sew the Outer Corner
Align the mitered corner with the raw edge of the quilt at the outer corner. Sew the corner using a blind stitch, starting and ending in the miter.
8. Press the Binding
Once the binding is sewn all around the quilt, press it gently to flatten it.
9. Sew the Binding in Place
Fold the binding over the raw edge of the quilt and stitch it down by hand using a blind stitch or a machine. Use small, even stitches and keep the binding taut. Trim any excess binding at the starting and ending points.
Finishing Touches
Trimming the Excess Batting and Backing
Trim the excess batting and backing to within 1/4 inch of the quilt top’s edge. Be careful not to cut into the quilt top fabric.
Turning Under the Binding
Fold the binding strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press. Unfold the strip and fold one raw edge over to the center crease. Press again. Fold the other raw edge over to meet the first fold, encasing the raw edges. Press once more.
Mitred Corners
At the corners, fold the binding diagonally to form a 45-degree angle. Bring the short end of the binding over the long end and continue folding until the excess length is trimmed away. Press.
Attaching the Binding
Using a blind stitch, stitch the binding to the quilt top by hand or machine. The stitches should be small and hidden under the fold of the binding.
Edges
Start by attaching the binding to the center of one edge. Work your way to the corners, mitering as needed. Trim any excess binding. Fold the binding to the back of the quilt and hand-stitch it in place.
Corners
To finish the corners, fold the binding to the back of the quilt and miter it. Blind-stitch the binding to the quilt top. Trim any excess binding.
Pressing
Once the binding is attached, press the quilt to set the stitches and give the binding a crisp finish.
Final Touches
Inspect the quilt for any loose threads or imperfections. Make any necessary repairs. Fold the quilt and store it properly.
How To Binding Quilt
Binding a quilt is the final step in the quilting process, and it’s an important one to do well. A good binding will protect the edges of your quilt and keep it looking its best for years to come.
There are many different ways to bind a quilt, but the most common method is called “machine binding.” Machine binding is relatively easy to do, and it produces a strong, durable binding.
To machine bind a quilt, you will need the following supplies:
- Binding fabric
- Quilt batting
- Backing fabric
- Quilting thread
- Sewing machine
How To Choosing The Right Binding Fabric
How to choose the right binding fabric
The binding fabric you choose should be a sturdy fabric that will stand up to wear and tear. It should also be a fabric that you like the look of, since it will be a prominent part of your quilt.
Some good choices for binding fabric include:
- Cotton
- Muslin
- Linen
- Flannel
- Denim
You can also use a combination of fabrics for your binding. For example, you could use a cotton fabric for the top of the binding and a flannel fabric for the back.
How much binding fabric do I need?
To determine how much binding fabric you need, you will need to measure the perimeter of your quilt. Once you have the perimeter, you will need to add 10 inches to the measurement. This will give you enough fabric to bind the quilt and turn the corners.
People Also Ask
How to bind a quilt by hand
To bind a quilt by hand, you will need the following supplies:
- Binding fabric
- Quilt batting
- Backing fabric
- Quilting thread
- Hand sewing needle
To bind a quilt by hand, follow these steps:
- Cut the binding fabric into strips that are 2 1/2 inches wide.
- Fold the binding strips in half lengthwise and press.
- Open the binding strips and place them around the edges of the quilt, right sides together.
- Stitch the binding strips to the quilt using a whip stitch.
- Turn the binding strips to the back of the quilt and fold them over the edges.
- Hand stitch the binding strips to the back of the quilt using a blind stitch.
How to miter a quilt binding
To miter a quilt binding, you will need to cut the binding strips at a 45-degree angle. To do this, mark a 45-degree line on the binding strip and cut along the line.
Once you have cut the binding strips, you can sew them together using a mitered seam. To do this, place the two binding strips right sides together and align the cut edges. Sew along the 45-degree line, starting and stopping 1/4 inch from the point.
Once you have sewn the mitered seam, turn the binding strips right side out and press. The mitered seam will create a strong, durable corner.
