The artwork of quilting, a time-honored custom, embodies creativity, persistence, and a contact of magic. Whether or not you are a seasoned quilter or a curious novice, the ultimate step of binding your quilt holds immense significance, remodeling it from a set of materials right into a cherished masterpiece. It is a activity that calls for precision, consideration to element, and a sprinkle of affection, because it secures the quilt’s edges, offering sturdiness and that beautiful crowning glory.
Embarking on the binding journey, you may uncover numerous strategies that cater to your ability stage and inventive imaginative and prescient. The normal hand-binding approach, a testomony to persistence and craftsmanship, affords a timeless allure. With needle and thread as your trusty companions, you may meticulously sew the binding across the quilt’s edges, creating a powerful and stylish bond. Alternatively, machine-binding affords effectivity and comfort, permitting you to finish the duty with relative ease. Whichever path you select, the tip result’s an beautiful border that frames your quilt, enhancing its magnificence and defending its delicate materials from the wear and tear and tear of time.
As you embark on this remaining stage of quilt-making, do not forget that perfection is just not the last word purpose. Embrace the imperfections which will come up alongside the best way, as they add character and uniqueness to your creation. Binding your quilt is an act of affection and dedication, a testomony to your ardour for quilting. So, collect your supplies, thread your needle, and put together so as to add the crowning glory to your labor of affection, remodeling it from a set of materials right into a cherished heirloom.
The Fundamentals of Quilt Binding
Quilt binding is the ultimate step in finishing a quilt, and it serves each a useful and ornamental objective. It finishes the uncooked edges of the quilt, stopping fraying and put on, and provides a ravishing crowning glory to the design. There are various other ways to bind a quilt, however the commonest technique known as “machine binding.” This method makes use of a stitching machine to sew the binding across the edges of the quilt, making a neat and safe end. Listed below are the supplies you will have to bind a quilt:
- Binding cloth: This cloth must be at the very least 2 1/2 inches huge and lengthy sufficient to go across the total perimeter of the quilt, plus a couple of further inches for overlap.
- Batting: That is the fluffy materials that offers the quilt its heat and loft. It must be the identical dimension because the quilt high.
- Backing cloth: This cloth would be the again of the quilt and must be at the very least as massive because the quilt high.
- Thread: Select a thread that matches the colour of the binding cloth.
- Stitching machine: A stitching machine with a zigzag sew is right for binding quilts.
- Iron and ironing board: These will probably be used to press the binding as you go.
- Quilting clips or pins: These will probably be used to carry the binding in place when you sew.
After you have gathered your supplies, you’ll be able to start the method of binding your quilt.
Step 1: Getting ready the Binding
First, you will have to organize the binding. To do that, fold the binding cloth in half lengthwise, mistaken sides collectively, and press. Then, unfold the material and fold every uncooked edge into the middle crease. Press once more. It will create a folded binding strip that is able to be sewn to the quilt.
Selecting the Proper Binding Material
Selecting the right binding cloth to your quilt is essential. The perfect cloth ought to complement the quilt’s total design and texture whereas offering sturdiness. Listed below are some key elements to think about:
Materials
- Cotton: A basic alternative for quilting, cotton is gentle, breathable, and colorfast.
- Flannel: Flannel, a napped cloth, provides an additional layer of heat and luxury to quilts.
- Batik: Batik cloth, usually constituted of cotton or silk, options vibrant patterns created by way of a dyeing course of.
Stable vs. Printed
- Stable binding: A strong coloration binding creates a refined and complex look.
- Printed binding: Printed binding materials inject a contact of character and curiosity into your quilt.
Weight and Texture
- Light-weight materials, resembling cotton or garden, are appropriate for lighter quilts.
- Medium-weight materials, resembling quilting cotton or calico, present a extra sturdy binding for bigger quilts.
- Textured materials, resembling corduroy or burlap, add visible curiosity and create a singular tactile expertise.
Desk of Binding Material Choices
| Materials | Texture | Finest for |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Clean | Light-weight quilts |
| Flannel | Napped | Heat and comfortable quilts |
| Batik | Textured | Quilts with vibrant patterns |
Getting ready the Quilt for Binding
Earlier than beginning the binding course of, it is essential to organize the quilt correctly:
Reducing and Connecting the Binding Strips
Measure and reduce the binding strips to the specified width (sometimes 2 1/2″ for the standard 1/4″ completed binding). The size of every strip will range relying on the scale of the quilt. To find out the variety of strips wanted, measure the perimeter of the quilt and divide it by the size of every particular person strip.
For example, if the quilt perimeter is 120 inches and the size of every strip is 40 inches, you will have three strips.
As soon as the strips are reduce, sew them collectively end-to-end with a scant 1/4″ seam allowance. It will create a steady binding that is lengthy sufficient to wrap across the quilt.
Becoming a member of the Quilt Layers
Earlier than including the binding, be sure that the quilt high, batting, and backing are securely joined collectively. Use a machine sew or a mixture of hand stitching and machine stitching to create a sturdy quilt sandwich. Keep away from utilizing glue or fusible adhesive, as these can intrude with the binding course of.
Trimming and Squaring the Quilt
If needed, trim the perimeters of the quilt evenly to create a clear and sq. form. Use a big ruler and a rotary cutter or scissors to make exact cuts. Squaring the quilt will be sure that the binding is utilized evenly and professionally.
| Binding Width | Instructed Completed Binding Width |
|—|—|
| 2 1/2″ | 1/4″ |
| 2 3/4″ | 1/2″ |
| 3″ | 3/4″ |
Attaching the Binding to the Quilt
1. Getting ready the Binding Strips
Trim the binding strips to the specified width, sometimes 2 to three inches. Be a part of the binding strips end-to-end utilizing a diagonal seam, trimming extra cloth and urgent the seam open.
2. Attaching the Binding to the Entrance of the Quilt
Align the binding strip with the uncooked fringe of the quilt, aligning the fold of the binding with the sting. Machine sew the binding in place, utilizing a small sew size and a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
3. Miters on the Corners
Fold the binding on the nook of the quilt to create a 45-degree angle. Measure and reduce off the surplus binding, leaving a 1/2-inch overlap. Press the fold to set the miter.
4. Ending the Binding with a Ornamental Sew
| Machine Stitching | Hand Stitching |
|---|---|
| Topstitch the binding to the quilt by machine, utilizing an ornamental sew and a 1/8-inch seam allowance. | Whip-stitch the binding to the quilt by hand, utilizing a small operating sew and a double thread. |
| French-fold the binding over the uncooked fringe of the quilt and sew in place, concealing the stitches. | Blanket-stitch the binding to the quilt by hand, utilizing a bigger operating sew and a single thread. |
Select an ornamental sew that enhances the quilt and enhances the general design.
Ending the Binding Edges
As soon as the binding strips have been sewn across the edges of the quilt, it is time to end the binding edges.
Technique 1: Fold and Sew
1. Fold the uncooked edges of the binding strips towards the again of the quilt, mitering the corners.
2. Pin the folded edges in place.
3. Hand-stitch or machine-stitch the perimeters down, catching all layers of the quilt and binding.
Technique 2: Fold, Glue, and Sew
1. Comply with steps 1 and a couple of from Technique 1.
2. Apply a skinny line of cloth glue to the folded edges.
3. Let the glue dry for a couple of minutes.
4. Hand-stitch or machine-stitch the perimeters down.
Technique 3: Single-Fold Binding
1. Fold one lengthy edge of every binding strip over 1/4 inch towards the mistaken facet.
2. Press the fold in place.
3. Align the folded edges of the binding strips with the uncooked edges of the quilt, with the folded edge dealing with the quilt.
4. Hand-stitch or machine-stitch the binding strips in place, catching all layers of the quilt and binding.
Technique 4: Steam-a-Seam Technique
1. Minimize a strip of Steam-a-Seam barely narrower than the binding strips.
2. Place the Steam-a-Seam strip between the binding strips and the uncooked edges of the quilt.
3. Iron the binding edges in place, following the producer’s directions.
4. Fold the uncooked edges of the binding strips towards the again of the quilt.
5. Hand-stitch or machine-stitch the folded edges in place, catching all layers of the quilt and binding.
Technique 5: Double-Fold Binding with Bias Tape
Supplies:
| Merchandise | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Bias tape | 1/2 inch huge |
| Bias tape | 3/4 inch huge |
Directions:
1. Sew the 1/2 inch bias tape to the uncooked edges of the quilt, folding the tape beneath 1/4 inch on the back and front of the quilt.
2. Press the bias tape in place.
3. Fold the three/4 inch bias tape in half lengthwise, with the uncooked edges dealing with one another.
4. Place the folded bias tape over the sewn bias tape, aligning the uncooked edges.
5. Fold the uncooked edges of the three/4 inch bias tape over the sewn bias tape and hand-stitch or machine-stitch in place.
Hand-Stitching the Binding
Hand-stitching the binding is a extra conventional technique that requires extra effort and time, nevertheless it may give your quilt a singular, handmade look. At hand-stitch the binding, you will have a needle, thread, and thimble.
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Fold the binding in half and press
Begin by folding the binding in half lengthwise, mistaken sides collectively. Press the fold with an iron.
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Pin the binding to the quilt
Open the binding and pin it to the precise facet of the quilt, aligning the uncooked edges of the binding with the uncooked edges of the quilt. Begin pinning within the middle of 1 facet and work your approach across the quilt.
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Sew the binding to the quilt
Utilizing a needle and thread, sew the binding to the quilt utilizing a small, even sew. Begin stitching within the middle of 1 facet and work your approach across the quilt.
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Fold the binding over the sting of the quilt
After you have stitched the binding to the quilt, fold the binding over the sting of the quilt and press.
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Sew the binding down
Utilizing a needle and thread, sew the binding right down to the quilt utilizing a small, even sew. Begin stitching within the middle of 1 facet and work your approach across the quilt.
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Mitering the Corners
Once you come to a nook, you will have to miter the binding in order that it suits snugly across the nook. To do that, fold the binding at a 45-degree angle on the nook and trim the surplus. Then, unfold the binding and fold it over the sting of the quilt, aligning the uncooked fringe of the binding with the uncooked fringe of the quilt on the nook. Sew the binding down utilizing a small, even sew.
Machine-Stitching the Binding
1. Machine Setup
Put together your stitching machine with a 1/4-inch foot and a thread that matches your binding cloth. Use an identical bobbin thread for a neat end.
2. Preliminary Stitching
Carry the uncooked fringe of the binding to the machine, aligning it with the sting of your quilt. Sew alongside the binding, sustaining a 1/4-inch seam.
3. Mitering Corners
Once you attain the primary nook, fold the binding at a 45-degree angle. Align the folded edge with the quilt edge, and sew for about 1/2 inch previous the nook.
4. Trimming Extra Binding
Trim the surplus binding to about 1 inch past the mitered nook. Repeat this course of for all 4 corners.
5. Becoming a member of the Binding
Overlap the ends of the binding by about 2 inches. Fold them collectively at a proper angle, and sew them in place.
6. Binding the Quilted Piece
Carry the joined binding to the machine, aligning the uncooked fringe of the binding to the quilt edge. Sew across the quilt, preserving a constant 1/4-inch seam.
7. Tucking Within the Corners
At every nook, rigorously tuck the surplus binding into the miter. Use a pin or clip to safe it. Trim any remaining extra binding to create a neat and completed look.
Binding Stitching Choices
| Choice | Thread Placement |
|---|---|
| Plain Sew | Sewn by way of all layers |
| Blind Hem Sew | Sewn solely by way of the binding |
| Topstitch | Sewn near the sting to create an ornamental impact |
Mitering the Corners
Mitering the corners of your quilt binding provides knowledgeable and polished contact to your completed mission. This is a step-by-step information that can assist you grasp this system:
1. Trim the corners of the quilt high and batting to 1/4 inch past the quilt again. Fold the binding over the sting of the quilt and miter the corners as follows:
- Place the binding over the uncooked fringe of the quilt, proper sides collectively.
- Sew alongside the folded fringe of the binding, near the sting.
- Cease stitching about 1 inch from the nook.
- Fold the binding diagonally throughout the nook and crease it sharply.
- Unfold the binding and trim off the surplus cloth at a 45-degree angle, leaving about 1/4 inch of cloth past the crease.
- Refold the binding alongside the crease and proceed stitching from the place you stopped.
- Sew across the total nook, taking care to miter every nook in the identical approach.
- Trim any extra binding and press the corners flat.
Further Ideas for Mitering Corners:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a quilting ruler or nook cutter to trim the corners precisely. | It will assist be sure that your miters are even and exact. |
| Apply on a scrap of cloth earlier than you miter the corners of your quilt. | It will can help you get the dangle of the approach and keep away from any errors in your remaining mission. |
| Be affected person and take your time. | Mitering corners is usually a bit tough, so do not rush the method. |
Making a Double-Fold Binding
A double-fold binding creates a clear, professional-looking end to your quilt. This is do it:
- Minimize the binding strips. Minimize strips of cloth which are 2 1/2 inches huge and the size of the quilt edge plus 12 inches.
- Sew the strips collectively. Be a part of the strips end-to-end, utilizing a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Press the seams open.
- Fold the binding in half lengthwise. Press the binding in half lengthwise, mistaken sides collectively. The uncooked edges must be aligned.
- Pin the binding to the quilt. Pin the binding to the quilt edge, lining up the uncooked edges. Begin in the course of one facet and work your approach across the quilt.
- Machine sew the binding. Sew the binding to the quilt utilizing a 1/4-inch seam allowance. You’ll want to catch the folded fringe of the binding within the seam.
- Trim the surplus cloth. Trim the surplus cloth from the binding, leaving a 1/4-inch border across the fringe of the quilt.
- Flip the binding to the again and sew. Fold the binding over the sting of the quilt and press it down. Hand-stitch the binding to the again of the quilt utilizing a blind sew.
Listed below are some suggestions for making a double-fold binding:
Use a material that does not fray simply.
It will assist to stop the binding from changing into ragged or coming aside.
Be certain that the binding is the precise size.
It must be lengthy sufficient to wrap across the quilt edge with out being too cumbersome.
Press the seams open.
It will assist the binding to put flat and look neat.
Troubleshooting Widespread Binding Issues
1. Issue Conserving Binding Flat
Use a thinner batting or batting that’s designed for machine quilting.
2. Binding Rippling or Puckering
Use a narrower binding (2-1/4″ or much less), or use a narrower sew size (2.0mm or much less).
3. Binding Stretching or Unfastened
Use a tighter sew size (2.5mm or extra) or use a thicker thread.
4. Binding Too Brief or Too Lengthy
Measure the circumference of the quilt precisely and add 10-12″ for overlap. If the binding is simply too brief, add a small piece to increase it. If it is too lengthy, trim off the surplus.
5. Binding Ripping or Tearing
Use a stronger thread or use a zigzag sew for the binding.
6. Binding Not Sq.
Use a ruler or quilting sq. to trim the binding strips earlier than stitching them collectively. Be certain that the corners are mitered at a 45-degree angle.
7. Binding Not Mendacity Flat at Corners
Fold the binding strip on the nook at a 45-degree angle and miter it. Then, fold the binding over and topstitch it down.
8. Binding Pulling Away from the Quilt
Use a wider sew width (3.0mm or extra) or use a zigzag sew for the binding.
9. Binding Too Thick or Cumbersome
Use a thinner batting or use a narrower binding (2-1/4″ or much less).
10. Binding Not Sticking to the Quilt
Use a stronger adhesive (resembling Fabri-Tac or spray adhesive), or use a wider sew width (3.0mm or extra).
| Downside | Resolution |
|---|---|
| Binding not flat | Use a thinner batting or wider sew size |
| Binding rippling or puckering | Use a narrower binding or narrower sew size |
| Binding stretching or unfastened | Use a tighter sew size or thicker thread |
| Binding too brief or too lengthy | Measure the quilt circumference and add 10-12" for overlap |
| Binding ripping or tearing | Use a stronger thread or zigzag sew |
| Binding not sq. | Trim binding strips with a ruler and miter at a 45-degree angle |
| Binding pulling away from the quilt | Use a wider sew width or zigzag sew |
| Binding too thick or cumbersome | Use a thinner batting or narrower binding |
| Binding not sticking to the quilt | Use a stronger adhesive or wider sew width |
The way to Bind a Quilt: A Step-by-Step Information
Binding a quilt is the ultimate step within the quilting course of, and it is an vital one. A well-bound quilt will shield the perimeters of the quilt from fraying and can give the quilt a completed look. There are various other ways to bind a quilt, however the next technique is a straightforward and efficient solution to get a professional-looking end.
Supplies:
- Quilt
- Binding cloth
- Thread
- Needle
- Scissors
- Iron
- Non-obligatory: Quilt binding clips
Directions:
- Minimize the binding cloth into strips which are 2 1/2 inches huge. The size of the strips will rely upon the scale of your quilt.
- Sew the binding strips collectively end-to-end to create one lengthy strip.
- Fold the binding strip in half lengthwise, mistaken sides collectively. Press the fold with an iron.
- Open up the binding strip and fold one uncooked edge over to fulfill the middle crease. Press the fold with an iron.
- Fold the opposite uncooked edge over to fulfill the middle crease. Press the fold with an iron.
- Pin the binding strip to the sting of the quilt, beginning on the middle of 1 facet. The folded fringe of the binding strip must be dealing with the quilt.
- Sew the binding strip to the quilt utilizing a blind sew. To do a blind sew, insert the needle into the quilt about 1/4 inch from the sting, catching only a few threads of the quilt. Carry the needle up by way of the binding strip about 1/4 inch from the folded edge. Proceed stitching across the quilt, inserting the needle into the quilt about 1/4 inch from the sting and bringing it up by way of the binding strip about 1/4 inch from the folded edge.
- Once you attain the tip of the quilt, overlap the binding strip by about 1 inch. Trim the surplus binding strip.
- Fold the overlap beneath and stitch it down with a blind sew.
- Your quilt is now sure!
Folks Additionally Ask
What’s the greatest cloth for quilt binding?
The most effective cloth for quilt binding is a tightly woven cotton cloth. Cotton is a sturdy cloth that may stand as much as repeated washing and drying, and it’s also comparatively simple to work with.
How huge ought to quilt binding be?
Quilt binding must be 2 1/2 inches huge. This width will present sufficient protection to guard the perimeters of the quilt from fraying, and it’ll additionally give the quilt a completed look.
How do I miter the corners of quilt binding?
To miter the corners of quilt binding, fold the binding strip in half on the nook, mistaken sides collectively. Match the uncooked edges of the binding strip, after which fold the underside fringe of the binding strip as much as meet the highest edge. Press the fold with an iron. Open up the binding strip and fold the opposite uncooked edge over to fulfill the middle crease. Press the fold with an iron. Sew the binding strip to the quilt utilizing a blind sew.
