Introduction
Binding a quilt can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. However, it is an important step in finishing your quilt, giving it a professional look and protecting the edges from wear and tear. In this article, we will take a detailed look at how to bind a quilt, as well as alternative binding methods and ways to add decorative touches.
Step-by-Step Instructions
One of the most important aspects of binding a quilt is accuracy. To ensure a neat and tidy finish, measure and cut your binding strips accurately, using a rotary cutter or scissors. Keep in mind the width of your binding, which is usually 2.5 inches. Sew the strips end to end using a diagonal seam to create a long continuous strip.
To attach the binding, begin on one side of the quilt, about halfway down. Leave a tail of around six inches and use a ¼ inch seam allowance to sew the binding to the quilt sandwich, aligning the raw edges of the binding with the raw edges of the quilt. Stop sewing a quarter of an inch from the corner, backstitch, and take the quilt off the sewing machine.
Next, fold the binding up, creating a 45-degree angle and then fold it back down, aligning the binding edge with the next edge of the quilt. Start stitching down the next side, continuing to mitre each corner in the same way. When you reach the starting point, trim the binding and join the ends together by aligning them at right angles and marking a diagonal line. Stitch along the line and trim the excess.
Video Tutorial
Video tutorials can be a great addition to written instructions, as they provide a visual guide to the process. If you are finding it difficult to follow written instructions or prefer to have some visual aid, check out this video tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GZ8Xh6vAvkk. This tutorial will guide you through the process of binding a quilt, step-by-step and visually, so you can get a better understanding of the process.
Alternative Binding Methods
There are various ways to bind a quilt, and the method you choose may depend on the type of quilt you are making, as well as personal preference. Single-fold binding is a simple method that involves only one layer of fabric. Bias binding wraps around the edges of the quilt diagonally, providing a more durable binding that is also more versatile than single-fold.
To create traditional binding, use double-layer binding, which is also known as French binding. This type of binding provides a neat finish by folding over the raw edges of the quilt.
There are benefits to each method as well, for example, single-fold binding is quick and easy and can also be used to showcase decorative fabrics. Bias binding is stretchy and can be used to create a curved edge. Double-fold binding is durable and provides extra thickness on the edges, and is particularly good for heavier quilts.
Adding Interest to Your Binding
If you are looking to add an additional touch to your quilting, try adding a decorative edge to the binding. There are many ways to do this, whether it’s piping, contrasting fabric or a flanged edge.
A flanged edge looks as great on the front of the quilt as it does on the back. To create this look, use contrasting fabric for the binding. Cut a 1.5 inch strip of binding fabric, and attach to the quilt using a ¼ inch seam allowance. Layer the second binding strip on top of the first strip, lining up the raw edges, and stitch using a 1/8 inch seam. Fold the binding over the edge of the quilt and sew down. This will create an interesting flange around the edge of the quilt.
Avoiding Common Binding Mistakes
Like any quilting process, binding takes time, patience and accuracy. There are some common mistakes people make while binding their quilts, for example, inconsistency in cutting and measuring binding strips, creating puckers and non-uniform corners.
To avoid making binding mistakes, check and recheck your measurements before cutting and then gently press your binding strips in half, lengthwise. Use a marking tool to mark a quarter of an inch on each corner and practice mitring the corners to achieve clean and uniform edges. You can also iron out any puckers or uneven corners with a warm iron and some steam.
Conclusion
Binding a quilt is an essential step in finishing your quilt and will provide a professional and neat finish. By following our step-by-step instructions, alternative binding methods and some creative touches, you can take your quilting skills to the next level. We hope that our tips and tricks will help you avoid common mistakes and enable you to create beautiful quilts.
In the end, remember that binding your quilt is a chance to express your creativity, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different methods and decorative touches as you advance in your quilting journey.
