When it comes to quilting, the finishing touch that brings everything together is the binding. Not only does it protect the raw edges of your quilt, but it also adds a decorative element that can complement or contrast with the overall design. Binding a quilt may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little patience, you can achieve a professional finish that will make your quilt look its best. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a quilt binding, providing detailed instructions and helpful tips along the way.
Before you begin, it’s important to gather the necessary materials. You will need: – Quilting fabric for the binding – Scissors – Rotary cutter and cutting mat – Ruler – Iron and ironing board – Thread – Sewing machine – Binder clips or quilting pins – Double-sided tape (optional)
Once you have everything you need, it’s time to start cutting the binding strips. The width of the binding strips will depend on the thickness of your quilt. For a standard quilt, 2.5-inch strips are a good choice. To cut the strips, use a rotary cutter and cutting mat to cut the fabric into long strips. The length of the strips will vary depending on the size of your quilt. As a general rule, you will need approximately 12 yards of binding for a twin-size quilt, 15 yards for a queen-size quilt, and 18 yards for a king-size quilt.
Choosing the Right Binding Fabric
The binding is the finishing touch on a quilt, so it’s essential to choose the right fabric. Here are a few things to consider:
Fabric Type
Cotton is a popular choice for quilt bindings because it’s durable, easy to care for, and comes in a wide variety of colors and prints. Other options include linen, chambray, or flannel. Choose a fabric that complements the quilt’s overall design.
Fabric Weight
The weight of the binding fabric should be similar to the weight of the quilt top. If the binding fabric is too heavy, it will weigh down the quilt and make it difficult to fold. If the binding fabric is too light, it may not be strong enough to hold up to everyday use.
Color and Print
The color and print of the binding fabric can dramatically impact the overall look of the quilt. A solid-colored binding will provide a classic and elegant look, while a patterned binding can add a touch of whimsy or flair. Consider the size and scale of the print when choosing a patterned binding fabric.
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Fabric Type | Cotton, linen, chambray, flannel |
| Fabric Weight | Similar to quilt top weight |
| Color and Print | Complements quilt design, size and scale of print |
Preparing the Binding Strips
Once the quilt top and backing are complete, it’s time to prepare the binding strips. These strips provide the finished edge of the quilt and enhance its overall appearance.
Determining Fabric Requirements
The amount of fabric needed for binding depends on the size and shape of your quilt. A good rule of thumb is to allow 1 yard of fabric per 10 inches of quilt perimeter. For example, a quilt with a perimeter of 60 inches would require 6 yards of fabric for the binding strips.
Calculating Strip Dimensions
Binding strips are typically cut 2.5 inches wide. To calculate the length of each strip, measure the perimeter of your quilt and multiply that value by 1.25. For example, if your quilt has a perimeter of 60 inches, each binding strip should be 75 inches long (60 inches x 1.25).
Cutting the Fabric
Once you have determined the fabric requirements and strip dimensions, cut the fabric into strips accordingly. Use a sharp rotary cutter and a quilting ruler to ensure precise and consistent cuts.
Joining the Strips
To create a continuous binding strip, sew the individual strips together end-to-end. Use a scant 1/4-inch seam allowance and press the seams open. Trim any excess fabric from the ends.
| Quilt Perimeter | Fabric Needed | Strip Length |
|---|---|---|
| 10 inches | 1 yard | 12.5 inches |
| 20 inches | 2 yards | 25 inches |
| 30 inches | 3 yards | 37.5 inches |
Joining the Binding Strips
### Step 1: Square Up the Binding Strips
Before joining the binding strips, ensure they are squared up by cutting off any excess fabric perpendicular to the selvedge or folded edge. This will create straight, even edges for a clean and professional finish.
### Step 2: Calculate the Length of the Binding
Measure the perimeter of the quilt top to determine the total length of binding needed. Add an additional 10-12 inches to allow for joining and overlap.
### Step 3: Join the Binding Strips Using Scarves or Clipping
There are multiple methods for joining binding strips:
| Scarves Method | Clipping Method |
|---|---|
|
Use two small scraps of fabric, called scarves, to connect the ends of the strips. Sew the scarves to one end of each strip, trim the excess, and then sew the strips together. |
Overlapping the ends of the strips by 1-2 inches, use a binder clip or safety pin to hold them in place. Sew through the overlapping section to join the strips. |
### Step 4: Press the Binding Seams
After joining the binding strips, press the seams open using a hot iron. This will create a flat and even surface for sewing the binding to the quilt.
Attaching the Binding to the Quilt
Once the binding strips have been sewn together and pressed, it’s time to attach them to the quilt. This can be done by hand or by machine, but hand-sewing is generally preferred for a more invisible finish.
To attach the binding by hand, use a small needle and thread to stitch the binding to the quilt top, catching only the top layer of fabric. Start in the center of one side and work your way around the quilt, mitering the corners as you go. When you reach the starting point, overlap the ends of the binding and stitch them together to finish.
To attach the binding by machine, use a blind hem stitch or a zigzag stitch. Start in the center of one side and work your way around the quilt, mitering the corners as you go. When you reach the starting point, overlap the ends of the binding and stitch them together to finish.
Mitering the Corners
Mitering the corners is essential for a neat and professional finish. To miter a corner, follow these steps:
- Fold the binding in half at the corner, right sides together.
- Press the crease to create a sharp fold.
- Unfold the binding and trim the excess fabric at a 45-degree angle, starting from the fold and cutting towards the edge of the quilt.
- Refold the binding and press to set the crease.
- Stitch the binding to the quilt top, catching only the top layer of fabric.
Mitering Corners
Mitering the corners of your quilting binding is an essential step for a professional-looking finish. Here’s a detailed guide:
Step 1: Fold the Binding
Fold the end of the binding over at a 45-degree angle, creasing it sharply. Measure and mark a point 1 inch from the folded edge. Fold the other end of the binding over exactly 45 degrees, and match the mark with the open edge of the first fold.
Step 2: Sew the Miter
Sew a straight stitch along the diagonal of the miter, from the outer corner to the inner point. Trim the excess fabric close to the stitches.
Step 3: Turn the Miter
Unfold the binding and press the miter flat. Fold the binding back along the original creases, and align the edges.
Step 4: Secure the Miter
Pin the miter and sew a topstitch around all four sides of the square, close to the edges. This will help stabilize and secure the miter.
Step 5: Determine the Binding Length
To calculate the length of binding needed for your quilt, use the following formula:
| Total Perimeter of Quilt (in inches) | plus | 20-30 inches for Joining and Finishing | = | Binding Length (in inches) |
|---|
Hand-Stitching the Binding
Hand-stitching the binding is a traditional method that adds a personal touch to your quilt. Here’s a detailed guide to help you achieve a professional-looking finish:
1. Prepare the Binding
Trim the binding to the desired width (usually 2-2.5 inches) and fold it in half lengthwise, pressing it flat.
2. Starting the Stitch
Align the folded binding with the raw edge of the quilt, matching the corners. Insert the needle through the folded edge of the binding, about 1/4 inch from the corner.
3. Blanket Stitch
Take a small stitch through the backing of the quilt, about 1/8 inch from the binding edge. Bring the needle back up through the folded edge of the binding, next to the first stitch.
4. Continuing the Stitch
Repeat the blanket stitch all around the quilt, keeping the stitches even and tight. Maintain a consistent distance from the binding edge and the quilt backing.
5. Mitering Corners
At the corners, fold the binding diagonally to form a 45-degree angle. Open up the binding at the corner point and continue stitching, creating a mitered corner.
6. Finishing the Binding
Once you’ve stitched the binding all around the quilt, remove the basting stitches. Fold the binding over the raw edge of the quilt and hand-stitch it in place, using a slip stitch or other preferred method.
| Stitching Method | Advantages |
|---|---|
| Slip Stitch | Invisible, creates a clean finish |
| Buttonhole Stitch | Decorative, adds a touch of embellishment |
| Ladder Stitch | Strong, suitable for quilts that will receive heavy use |
Machine-Stitching the Binding
1. **Place the binding on the quilt.** Fold the binding over the raw edge of the quilt, right sides together. Pin the binding in place, starting at the center of one side and working your way around the quilt.
2. **Sew the binding to the quilt.** Use a straight stitch to sew the binding to the quilt, 1/4 inch from the folded edge. Start and stop sewing 1/2 inch from the corners.
3. **Miter the corners.** At each corner, fold the binding over itself to create a miter. Pin the miter in place and sew it down.
4. **Fold the binding over the back of the quilt.** Fold the binding over the back of the quilt, wrong sides together. Pin the binding in place, starting at the center of one side and working your way around the quilt.
5. **Sew the binding to the back of the quilt.** Use a blind stitch to sew the binding to the back of the quilt, close to the folded edge. Start and stop sewing 1/2 inch from the corners.
6. **Secure the binding.** Miter the corners on the back of the quilt and sew them down. Then, fold the ends of the binding together and sew them down. You can also use a decorative stitch to add a finishing touch to the binding.
7. Troubleshooting Common Problems with Machine-Stitching the Binding
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| The binding is wrinkled. | Press the binding before sewing it to the quilt. |
| The binding is too loose. | Sew the binding to the quilt closer to the folded edge. |
| The binding is too tight. | Sew the binding to the quilt further from the folded edge. |
| The corners are not mitered correctly. | Fold the binding over itself to create a 45-degree angle at the corner. Pin the miter in place and sew it down. |
| The binding is not secure. | Miter the corners on the back of the quilt and sew them down. Then, fold the ends of the binding together and sew them down. |
Finishing the Binding
8. Machine-Stitch the Binding
Once the hand-stitched portion is complete, you can machine-stitch the binding for added strength and durability. Here’s a detailed guide:
- Set Your Machine: Use a straight stitch and set the stitch length to 2.5-3 mm. Select a thread that matches or complements the binding fabric.
- Secure the Binding: Bring the binding machine-stitched portion under the quilt back and align it with the hand-stitched edge. Fold the excess binding over the edge by about 1/2 inch, keeping it flush with the quilt back.
- Start Stitching: Position the quilt under the presser foot, with the machine needle close to the folded edge of the binding. Start stitching, keeping the stitch line about 1/8 inch from the edge of the binding.
- Stitch Around the Quilt: Continue stitching around the entire perimeter of the quilt, keeping the stitch line consistent and even. Avoid stitching too close to the corner seams, as you want to leave room for reinforcement.
- Secure the Ends: Once you reach the beginning of the binding, overlap the ends by about 1/2 inch and stitch them together securely. Trim any excess binding.
- Reinforce the Corners: For added strength, reinforce the corners by stitching over them several times, ensuring the lines cross over each other for extra durability.
- Press the Binding: Once the machine stitching is complete, press the binding firmly to set the stitches and give it a professional finish.
- Trim Excess Fabric: Trim any excess fabric around the edges of the binding, ensuring it is flush with the quilt back.
- Rip out the binding and reattach it, making sure to stretch it slightly as you sew.
- Use a larger needle to sew the binding, which will create larger holes and allow for more stretch.
- Rip out the binding and reattach it, using smaller stitches to hold it in place.
- Use a smaller needle to sew the binding, which will create smaller holes and prevent it from stretching too much.
- Check the tension on your sewing machine, as too much tension can cause the binding to pucker.
- Use a presser foot that is designed for binding, as it will help to keep the binding flat as you sew.
- Use a fabric sealant or Fray Check to prevent the binding from fraying.
- Fold the raw edges of the binding under before sewing it to the quilt to create a more finished look.
- Practice mitering on a scrap piece of fabric before attempting it on the quilt.
- Use a mitering tool to help you cut the binding at the correct angle.
- Use a strong thread that is designed for quilting.
- Sew the binding to the quilt using a stitch that is strong and secure, such as a double stitch or a zigzag stitch.
- Measure the perimeter of the quilt and cut the binding to the correct length and width.
- If the binding is too narrow, it will not cover the edges of the quilt properly.
- If the binding is too wide, it will be bulky and difficult to sew.
- Use a glue stick or fabric glue to attach the binding to the back of the quilt before sewing it on.
- Hand-sew the binding to the back of the quilt using a blind stitch.
- Iron the binding before sewing it on to give it a crisp and professional look.
- Use a pressing cloth to protect the fabric from scorching.
- Use a ruler or measuring tape to ensure that the binding is sewn on evenly around the quilt.
- Mark the quilt with pins or chalk to help you keep the binding straight.
- Use a walking foot on your sewing machine to help feed the fabric evenly.
- Take your time and sew slowly and carefully to avoid mistakes.
- Measure the edges of your quilt. Add 2 inches to the length of each side to allow for overlap and mitering the corners.
- Cut the fabric for the binding. The fabric you use for the binding should be a coordinating color or pattern to the quilt. Cut the fabric into strips that are 2 1/2 inches wide.
- Sew the binding strips together. Sew the binding strips together end-to-end, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Press the seams open.
- Attach the binding to the quilt. Starting at the center of one side of the quilt, pin the binding to the edge of the quilt, right sides together. Use a 1/4-inch seam allowance and stitch all the way around the quilt. Be sure to miter the corners at the corners of the quilt.
- Fold the binding over the edge of the quilt. Fold the binding over the edge of the quilt to the back of the quilt. Pin in place and topstitch around the edge of the quilt, close to the folded edge.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Set your machine to a straight stitch with a stitch length of 2.5-3 mm. |
| 2 | Secure the machine-stitched binding under the quilt back and fold the excess over the edge. |
| 3 | Start stitching around the perimeter of the quilt, keeping the stitch line 1/8 inch from the edge of the binding. |
| 4 | Overlap the binding ends by 1/2 inch and stitch them securely. |
| 5 | Reinforce the corners by stitching over them multiple times, crossing the lines for durability. |
| 6 | Press the binding firmly to set the stitches and give it a professional finish. |
| 7 | Trim any excess fabric around the edges of the binding. |
Pressing and Binding Tips
Pressing
Pressing your quilt top before you begin binding will help to ensure a smooth, even finish. Use a medium-hot iron and press in one direction only. Do not over-press, as this can damage the fabric.
Binding
1. Cut the binding strips
Cut the binding strips to the desired width. The width of the strips will vary depending on the size of your quilt and the desired finished look. A good starting point is to cut the strips 2-1/2 inches wide.
2. Join the binding strips
Join the binding strips together using a diagonal seam. This will help to create a smooth, even join that will not be noticeable when the binding is folded over.
3. Press the binding strips
Press the binding strips in half lengthwise. This will help to make the binding easier to fold over and apply.
4. Fold the binding over the edge of the quilt
Fold the binding over the edge of the quilt, mitering the corners. Make sure that the binding is folded over evenly all the way around the quilt.
5. Pin the binding in place
Pin the binding in place all the way around the quilt. This will help to keep the binding in place while you are sewing it.
6. Sew the binding in place
Sew the binding in place using a small stitch length. Be sure to catch both the top and bottom layers of the quilt when you are sewing.
7. Trim the excess binding
Trim the excess binding from the corners of the quilt. This will help to create a neat and tidy finish.
8. Press the binding
Press the binding one last time to set it in place. This will help to give the binding a professional-looking finish.
9. Additional binding tips
Here are a few additional tips for binding a quilt:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a bias tape maker to create your own binding strips. | This will help to create binding strips that are perfectly bias-cut, which will result in a smoother, more professional-looking finish. |
| Use a double-fold bias tape for a more durable binding. | This type of bias tape is folded over twice, which creates a stronger and more durable binding. |
| Hand-stitch the binding in place for a more secure finish. | This is a more time-consuming method, but it will result in a binding that is very secure and long-lasting. |
Troubleshooting Common Binding Issues
1. Binding is too tight
Solution:
2. Binding is too loose
Solution:
3. Binding is not flat
Solution:
4. Binding is fraying
Solution:
5. Binding is not mitered properly
Solution:
6. Binding is not sewn securely
Solution:
7. Binding is not the correct width
Solution:
8. Binding is not attached to the back of the quilt
Solution:
9. Binding is not ironed
Solution:
10. Binding is not even
Solution:
How to Make a Binding for a Quilt
A well-made binding is essential for a professional-looking quilt. It will not only finish the edges of your quilt, but will also add an extra layer of durability. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make a binding for a quilt:
People Also Ask
How do you bind a quilt by hand?
To bind a quilt by hand, you will need a needle, thread, and a yardstick or measuring tape. Follow the steps above for making the binding, then hand-stitch the binding to the quilt using a blind stitch.
What is the best fabric for quilt binding?
The best fabric for quilt binding is a medium-weight cotton fabric that is not too stiff or too soft. Some good choices include quilting cotton, batiks, or flannel.
How do you calculate how much fabric you need for quilt binding?
To calculate how much fabric you need for quilt binding, measure the perimeter of your quilt and add 2 inches. Then divide this number by the width of the binding strips you are using. For example, if your quilt measures 50 inches by 60 inches and you are using 2 1/2-inch wide binding strips, you will need 11 yards of fabric.
