Finishing your handmade quilt with beautifully sewn binding can take your project to the next level. If you have experience with quilting or are a beginner, this comprehensive guide will provide a step-by-step approach to sewing quilt binding that will make you look like an expert.
- Prepare your quilt and binding materials
- Cut and join the binding strips
- Attach the binding to the quilt’s raw edge
- Mitre the corners for a polished look
- Hand-stitch the binding in place for a flawless finish
Prepare Your Quilt and Binding
Begin by trimming your quilt top and batting to the desired size. Cut your binding fabric into 2.5-inch wide strips, typically cut on the bias. Join the strips end-to-end using a diagonal seam to create one continuous strip.
First, fold the binding strip in half lengthwise. Then, make sure the wrong sides are together, and press the strip. This will create a double-fold binding that will give your quilt a crisp, professional edge.
Attach the Binding to the Quilt
Pin the unsewn edge of the binding to the edge of the quilt, starting from the middle of one side and ensuring that the right sides face each other. Sew with a 1/4-inch seam allowance, keeping an 8-inch length of binding at the beginning.
As you approach each corner, stop stitching 1/4 inch from the edge. Fold the binding up, creating a 45-degree angle. Fold it back down, align the raw edges, and resume stitching. This will create beautiful mitered corners.
Hand-Stitch the Binding in Place
Fold the binding over to the quilt’s back side, encasing the raw edge. Using a blind stitch, hand-stitch the binding in place, taking care to catch only a tiny amount of the quilt’s backing fabric. This will create a clean, polished finish that is virtually invisible from the front.
FAQs
What is the best way to join the binding strips?
The most common method is to join the strips using a diagonal seam. This creates a less bulky join and helps the binding lay flat around the quilt.
How do I ensure my binding is the correct length?
You need to calculate the total length of the sides of your quilt and then add an extra 10-12 inches to cover the corners that will be cut at a 45-degree angle and the extra fabric that will overlap. This will give you the total length needed for your binding strip.
Can I machine-stitch the binding instead of hand-stitching?
Absolutely! Many quilters prefer to machine-stitch the binding in place, either with a traditional straight stitch or a decorative topstitch. This can save time, but the hand-stitched method often produces a cleaner, more polished finish.
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Are you ready to take your quiltmaking skills to the next level? Sewing on quilt binding may seem daunting, but with some practice, you’ll be binding like a pro in no time. Happy quilting!
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Main image: pexels
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