Mastering the Art of Machine Sewing Quilt Binding: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you are a seasoned quilter or just starting out, one of the essential steps in creating a beautiful and professional-looking quilt is binding. Binding not only adds a finished edge to your quilt, but it also secures the edges and keeps them from fraying over time. Machine sewing quilt binding is a method that many quilters prefer for its efficiency and neatness. In this article, we will guide you through the process of machine sewing quilt binding, from selecting the right materials to mastering the technique. Get ready to add a polished touch to your quilts with our step-by-step tutorial on how to machine sew quilt binding.

Fabric Selection

When it comes to quilting, fabric selection is key. The fabric you choose for your quilt binding should not only complement the overall design of your quilt, but it should also be durable and easy to work with. This is especially important for machine sewn quilt bindings as they require a bit more handling compared to hand sewn bindings.

When selecting a fabric for your quilt binding, it’s important to consider the weight, weave and design of the fabric. A lightweight cotton or linen fabric is typically preferred as it is easy to manipulate and won’t add unnecessary bulk to your binding. Additionally, a tightly woven fabric will provide more stability and prevent fraying. As for design, consider a solid color or a subtle pattern that won’t compete with the main design of your quilt.

It’s also recommended to prewash your chosen fabric before starting any cutting or sewing. This will ensure that any shrinkage or bleeding of colors happens before you assemble and sew your binding so there are no surprises later on.

Some quilters also like to use bias-cut strips for their binding instead of straight-cut strips. This allows for more flexibility when sewing curved edges and can add visual interest to the finished quilt. However, this technique requires extra fabric and may not be necessary for all quilts.

Preparation

Before diving into machine sewing your quilt binding, there are a few important preparation steps that should not be skipped.

Firstly, make sure all layers of your quilt (top, batting, backing) are trimmed evenly so there are no uneven or bulky folds along the edges. This will prevent any unnecessary tugging or bunching while attaching the binding.

Next, make sure all threads have been clipped from the edge of your quilt top so they don’t get caught in the binding while sewing.

Make sure you have enough pins at hand for securing your binding in place, as well as scissors or a rotary cutter for trimming excess fabric.

Lastly, it’s important to adjust your sewing machine settings for quilting. Use a walking foot, if available, as it will help feed all layers evenly and prevent shifting while sewing. Adjust the presser foot tension to a slightly looser setting to accommodate the thickness of the quilt layers and binding.

Cutting and Joining Binding Strips

To determine how much fabric you need for your binding, you can use a simple calculation based on the size of your quilt. Add all four sides of your quilt (including any borders) and add 20 inches to that total. This will give you an estimated length for your binding strip.

Binding strips should be cut on the straight grain of the fabric to ensure stability and prevent stretching. For straight-cut strips, measure and cut along the selvage edge of your chosen fabric. Alternatively, if using bias-cut strips, fold your fabric at a diagonal angle so that the selvage edges meet at one corner, then cut along this line.

When joining multiple strips together to make a longer strip, make sure to sew them at a 45-degree angle instead of sewing straight across. This will reduce bulk and make for a smoother finish.

To achieve this angled seam, place two strips right sides together at a 90-degree angle with ends overlapping by at least 1/4 inch. Draw a diagonal line from corner to corner and sew along this line. Trim any excess fabric and press open the seam.

Attaching Binding to Quilt

With your preparation complete and binding strips ready, it’s time to attach them to your quilt.

Starting in the middle of one side of your quilt (leaving about 6 inches unsewn for later), unfold one end of your binding strip (if using pre-made binding) or leave approximately 6 inches loose (if making your own). Align the raw edge of the binding with the raw edge of your quilt top, right sides together.

Using a 1/4 inch seam allowance, sew down the first side of your quilt, securing the binding in place with pins as needed. When approaching a corner, stop sewing 1/4 inch before the edge and backstitch. Fold the binding away from the corner at a 45-degree angle and then fold back towards the next side of your quilt. This will create a clean mitered corner.

Continue sewing along the next side, repeating this mitered fold at each corner until you reach where you started. Stop sewing about 6 inches from where you started and backstitch to secure.

Joining Binding Ends

To join two ends of binding together, lay one end flat on top of the second end so that they overlap by approximately 1 inch. Trim any excess fabric to ensure a clean join.

Fold and press both ends at a 45-degree angle towards each other to create a diagonal crease on both strips.

Unfold one end and trim off 1/2 inch from where it meets this crease. Unfold both ends once more and place them right sides

What is Quilt Binding and Why is it Important?

Quilt binding is the final step in the quilt-making process. It is a fabric strip used to finish the edges of a quilt, enclosing all the raw edges and giving it a clean and polished look. Not only does quilt binding add visual appeal to your quilt, but it also serves an important functional purpose by protecting the edges of your quilt from wear and tear.

Binding is what holds all the layers of a quilt together, making sure they stay in place and do not come apart. Without proper binding, your quilt may not hold up well over time, causing frayed edges or even unraveling. Therefore, learning how to properly machine sew quilt binding is crucial for any quilter looking to create high-quality and durable quilts.

The Tools You’ll Need

Before diving into the process of machine sewing quilt binding, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools. Here are some essential tools you’ll need:

Fabric for Binding

The first thing you’ll need for binding is fabric. The type and amount of fabric needed will depend on the size of your quilt and the width you desire for your binding. Generally, quilting cotton or solid fabric works best for binding as it provides stability and durability.

Measuring Tools

Accurate measurements are crucial when it comes to creating a successful binding. You’ll need a measuring tape or ruler to measure out the length and width of your quilt accurately.

Scissors/Rotary Cutter

To cut your binding fabric to the right size, you’ll need sharp scissors or a rotary cutter along with a cutting mat. These tools will ensure clean and precise cuts.

Pins/Clips

Pins or clips come in handy when attaching your binding to your quilt. They help keep the fabric in place and prevent shifting while sewing.

Sewing Machine

Last but not least, you’ll need a sewing machine to sew your binding onto your quilt. While hand sewing binding is also an option, machine sewing is faster and more efficient.

Preparing Your Binding

Once you have all the necessary tools, it’s time to prepare your binding. Start by cutting your fabric into strips that are 2 ½ inches wide and the length of your quilt’s perimeter plus an extra 8 inches. This will account for any mitered corners and ensure you have enough fabric to finish your binding.

Next, join the strips together by placing them right sides together at a 90-degree angle and sewing diagonally from corner to corner. Trim the excess fabric and press open the seams. This technique is known as “sewing on the bias” and allows for a smoother finish when attaching the binding to your quilt.

You can also use bias tape or pre-made double-folded binding if you prefer. Just make sure it’s wide enough to encase all the raw edges of your quilt.

Attaching Binding to Your Quilt

Now comes the fun part – actually attaching your binding to your quilt! Follow these steps for a successful machine-sewn binding:

Step 1: Prepare Your Quilt

Lay out your quilt on a flat surface with the right side facing up. Smooth out any wrinkles or folds so that it lies flat.

Step 2: Pin Your Binding

Starting in the middle of one side of your quilt, place one end of your prepared binding on top of the raw edge with right sides together. Place pins or clips along this side at regular intervals, leaving a few inches from each end unpinned.

Step 3: Sew the First Side

Using a ¼ -inch seam allowance, begin sewing the binding onto the quilt, removing the pins or clips as you sew. Stop sewing about ¼ -inch from the corner.

Step 4: Create a Mitered Corner

To create perfect mitered corners, leave your needle in the down position and lift your presser foot. Pivot your quilt clockwise to create a diagonal fold in your binding. Bring the binding down along the adjacent side, aligning it with the raw edge. Lower your presser foot and continue sewing.

Step 5: Sewing Around the Last Corner

When you reach the final corner of your quilt, stop sewing about 10 inches before you reach where you started. This will leave enough space to join both ends of your binding together seamlessly.

Step 6: Joining Binding Ends

Cut off any excess binding so that it overlaps with the beginning edge by about 2 inches. Open up both ends of your binding and trim off one of the tails at a diagonal. Place the other tail on top of it with right sides together, aligning them at a 90-degree angle.

1) What is quilt binding and why is it necessary?
Quilt binding is a fabric strip that is used to cover the raw edges of a quilt’s border. It not only provides a clean, finished look to your quilt, but also helps to secure the layers together and prevent fraying.

2) What supplies do I need for machine sewing quilt binding?
You will need fabric for the binding, pins, scissors, a sewing machine with a walking foot attachment (optional), thread, and an iron.

3) How do I attach the binding to my quilt?
1. First trim your quilt’s edges evenly.
2. Cut your binding fabric into strips and sew them together at an angle to create one long strip.
3. Fold and press the binding strip in half lengthwise.
4. Beginning in the center of one side of your quilt, pin the raw edge of the binding strip to the raw edge of your quilt.
5. Sew along this edge with a ¼ inch seam allowance.
6. As you approach each corner, stop sewing ¼ inch away from it and backstitch.
7. Fold the binding up at a 45-degree angle creating a neat mitered corner.
8. Continue sewing around the rest of the quilt until you reach where you started.

4) Do I need a walking foot attachment for machine sewing quilt binding?
A walking foot attachment isn’t necessary but can be helpful when sewing thick layers together or using different types of fabrics.

5) How do I finish my machine-sewn quilt binding?
1. Trim any excess batting or backing from around your finished edges.
2. Fold over the folded edge of your binding strip to cover the stitching on the backside of your quilt.
3. Secure with pins or clips as needed.
4. Use a blind stitch or decorative stitch to sew the binding down around all remaining edges.

6) Can I use the same process for both straight and curved edges when sewing quilt binding?
Yes, the same process can be used for both straight and curved edges. However, you may need to make small adjustments while folding and pinning the binding strip along curved edges to ensure a smooth finish.

In conclusion, learning how to machine sew quilt binding is a valuable skill for any quilter. It allows for the creation of a clean and professional-looking finish, while also saving time and effort compared to hand sewing. Through a step-by-step process and attention to detail, one can successfully attach the binding to their quilt without much difficulty.

The key takeaway from this topic is the importance of preparation and practice when it comes to machine sewing quilt binding. Taking the time to properly measure, cut, and press the binding strips will ensure a smooth and even application. Additionally, practicing with scrap fabric first can help improve technique and avoid mistakes on the final project.

It is also essential to choose the right tools and materials for the job. A walking foot or adjustable bias binder can make all the difference in achieving a neat and professional-looking finish. Furthermore, selecting high-quality fabric for both the quilt top and binding will result in a more durable and visually appealing finished product.

The process of attaching quilt binding with a sewing machine may seem daunting at first, but with patience and attention to detail, it becomes an enjoyable part of quilting. As with any skill, practice is key in mastering this technique. By following these steps and tips, one can confidently create beautiful bindings that add a polished touch

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.