Quilting offers a unique blend of art and practicality, and the final touch that completes any quilt is the binding. Not only does binding secure the quilt’s edges from fraying, but it also adds a decorative element that enhances the overall aesthetic appeal. However, applying quilt binding can seem like a daunting task, especially for beginners. This comprehensive guide will delve into the essential steps and techniques required to apply quilt binding seamlessly, ensuring your quilt achieves a polished and professional finish.
Before embarking on the binding process, certain materials and tools are indispensable. These include quilt binding fabric, a rotary cutter or scissors, a sewing machine with a walking foot, and matching thread. Additionally, you may want to use an iron and pressing board to achieve crisp and precise results. Once you have gathered your materials, it is crucial to prepare the quilt for binding. This involves trimming any excess batting or fabric around the edges, ensuring that the quilt is square, and pressing the edges to create a smooth and even surface for binding.
With your quilt properly prepared, you can begin the actual binding process. Start by cutting your binding fabric into strips that are approximately 2.5 inches wide. The length of the strips will vary depending on the size and shape of your quilt. Once cut, sew the binding strips together end-to-end, forming a continuous loop. Next, fold the binding strip in half lengthwise, with the raw edges aligned. Press the folded binding to create a crease and make it easier to handle during the next steps.
How To Apply Quilt Binding
Quilt binding is the finishing touch on the quilt, binding the edges to prevent fraying and adding a decorative element. It can be done by hand or machine, and there are a variety of techniques to choose from. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply quilt binding:
- Prepare the binding strips: Cut the binding strips to the desired width, usually 2.5-3 inches. Join the strips together with a diagonal seam to create one long strip. Press the seam allowance open.
- Attach the binding to the quilt: Place the binding strip along the edge of the quilt, aligning the raw edges. Pin the binding in place, starting at the center of one side and working your way around the quilt.
- Machine stitch the binding: Using a blind hem foot, stitch the binding to the quilt, catching the quilt top, batting, and backing in the stitch. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of the stitching.
- Hand stitch the binding: If you prefer, you can also hand stitch the binding in place. Using a small needle and thread, stitch through all layers of the quilt and binding, taking small, even stitches.
- Fold the binding over the edge of the quilt: Once the binding is attached, fold it over the edge of the quilt and press in place. Mitre the corners to create a neat finish.
- Topstitch the binding: Machine or hand stitch the binding in place, stitching through all layers of the quilt and binding. This will secure the binding and give it a finished look.
People Also Ask About How To Apply Quilt Binding
What is the best way to join quilt binding strips?
The best way to join quilt binding strips is with a diagonal seam. This will create a strong and secure join that will not fray or come apart. To make a diagonal seam, place the two binding strips at right angles to each other, with the raw edges overlapping. Sew a straight line from one corner to the opposite corner, creating a diagonal seam. Press the seam allowance open and continue sewing the binding strips together.
Can I use a regular sewing machine foot to attach quilt binding?
You can use a regular sewing machine foot to attach quilt binding, but it is not the ideal tool. A blind hem foot is specifically designed for this task and will give you a more professional-looking finish. A blind hem foot has a small channel that guides the fabric as you sew, creating a blind stitch that is barely visible from the right side of the quilt.
How do I mitre the corners of quilt binding?
To mitre the corners of quilt binding, fold the binding strip in half at a 45-degree angle, aligning the raw edges. Press in place. Unfold the binding strip and fold it in half again, this time aligning the raw edges of the two mitred sections. Press in place. Sew the mitered corner in place, using a small needle and thread.
