Master the Art of Quilting: A Step-by-Step Guide to Sewing Binding on Your Quilt

As the temperature drops and the leaves begin to change colors, many of us are feeling the urge to cozy up with a warm, homemade quilt. But what makes a quilt truly special and long-lasting? The answer lies in the finishing touch – binding. Sewing binding onto a quilt not only adds durability, but also completes the overall aesthetic of the piece. Whether you’re new to quilting or looking to brush up on your skills, this article will provide you with all you need to know about how to sew binding on a quilt. So grab your sewing kit and let’s get started!

Quilting is a beautiful and popular sewing craft that involves creating stunning patchwork designs using fabric pieces. These fabric pieces are joined together to form the quilt top, which is then layered with batting and backing fabric to create a finished quilt. One of the essential steps in quilting is sewing binding onto the edges of the quilt. Binding not only covers raw edges but also adds durability, shape, and a professional finish to your quilt. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about how to sew binding on a quilt.

What is binding?

Binding is essentially a strip of fabric that is used to cover the raw edges of a quilt. This technique involves attaching a strip of fabric around the perimeter of the quilted piece, enclosing all three layers – the front (quilt top), middle (batting), and back (backing). Binding comes in different varieties, including single-fold binding, double-fold binding, bias binding, or straight grain binding. Choosing the right type of binding for your project can make a significant difference in your finished quilt’s appearance.

Preparing Your Quilt for Binding

Before you start sewing binding onto your quilt, you must prepare your project properly. This preparation includes trimming excess batting and backing fabric from around the edges of your quilted piece. Ensure that all layers are trimmed evenly so that each edge has an equal amount of seam allowance.

Next, press all edges to remove any wrinkles or creases and make them nice and crisp for sewing on the binding strips smoothly. It is recommended to use an iron set at medium heat for this step.

Measuring and Cutting Binding Strips

To determine how much fabric you will need for your binding strips, measure the outside perimeter (add all four sides’ lengths) of your prepared quilt top and add 10 inches to this measurement. This added length will account for the corners and seams on each side.

Next, decide on the width of your binding strips. For a regular quilt with an average thickness, a 2.5-inch wide strip is recommended. However, if you have a thicker quilt or prefer a wider binding, you can go up to 3 inches. Cut the strips according to your desired width and the calculated length.

Tip: If your fabric is not wide enough to cut one continuous strip for your binding, you can sew multiple strips together using diagonal seams to create a long enough strip.

Creating Single-Fold Binding

Single-fold binding is also known as bias tape binding and is commonly used for small quilting projects or wall hangings. It provides a delicate finish and is suitable for curves or angles in your quilt’s edge. To make single-fold binding, start by pressing your binding strip in half using an iron.

Next, open up the fold and press both of the raw edges towards the center crease. You can fold the pressed edges slightly beyond the crease to ensure they are entirely hidden when you attach them to your quilt.

Making Double-Fold Binding

Double-fold binding, also known as French fold binding, is ideal for quilts that will receive heavy use like bed quilts or lap quilts. To create double-fold binding, start by pressing your binding strip in half just like in single-fold binding.

Then unfold it and press both raw edges towards the center crease but this time stop just short of meeting at the middle by ⅜ inch on each side. Now refold along the original crease so that both raw edges are neatly tucked within the folded edge.

Attaching Binding to Your Quilt

To sew binding onto your quilt, you must first secure it correctly onto one of the quilt edges. Lay the binding strip on your quilt’s front side and pin it in place closely to the edge, leaving few inches free at the start. Start sewing from one end, leaving a ½ inch seam allowance, and stop when you reach ¼ inch away from the corner.

Next, carefully fold the binding strip towards the next side, making a 45-degree angle at the corner. Then fold back onto itself so that the binding strip meets with the first edge’s raw edge. Pin in place and continue sewing until you reach the next corner. Repeat this process until all four corners are sewn.

When you reach where you started, overlap your initial few inches of binding strip and sew all along its length to complete attaching it to your quilt.

Sewing Binding by Hand

While machine sewing provides a more secure finish, some quilters prefer to hand-sew their bindings for a more traditional look. To do so, fold over your binding strip’s raw edge towards the backside of your quilt evenly and hand-stitch it in place using a blind or whip stitch. Alternatively, you can use ladder stitching for an almost invisible finish.

Now that you know how to sew binding on a quilt

Understanding Binding

Binding is an essential part of finishing a quilt and can make or break the overall look and feel of your creation. It is the strip of fabric that not only provides a neat edge but also protects the raw edges of your quilt, giving it durability and longevity. In simpler terms, binding is like adding a frame to a painting, highlighting its beauty and giving it a polished finish.

There are many different types of binding, including single-fold, double-fold, bias tape, and stretch binding. Each type has its own unique characteristics and uses, but the basic principles for attaching them to your quilt remain the same.

Single-fold binding is made by folding over one edge of the fabric strip to create a neat hem on one side. This type works well for lightweight quilts or those that will receive minimal wear and tear.

Double-fold binding is more durable as it folds over both edges of the fabric strip. This ensures that both sides are protected from fraying and provides extra strength for heavier quilts.

Bias tape binding is made by cutting strips on the diagonal grain of the fabric and is ideal for creating smooth curves around quilt edges. It also adds dimension and a unique touch to your quilt.

Stretch binding is designed specifically for use with stretchy fabrics such as knits or spandex. It has more give than traditional bindings and allows for easier movement of the finished quilt.

When choosing your binding type, consider not only the purpose of your quilt but also its design. The type of binding you use can affect the overall appearance of your quilt, so choose wisely.

Tools You Will Need

Before getting started on sewing binding onto your quilt, it’s important to have all necessary tools on hand. These include:

– Sewing machine: A sewing machine will make attaching your binding much quicker and more efficient than sewing by hand.
– Binding clips or pins: These are essential for holding your binding in place while sewing.
– Scissors or rotary cutter: These will be used to cut your binding to the desired length and shape.
– Fabric glue: This can be helpful in securing the beginning and end of your binding before stitching it down.
– Ruler or measuring tape: Accurate measurements are crucial for a clean and professional-looking finish.
– Iron and ironing board: Pressing your binding as you go along will result in smooth and neat edges.

Preparing Your Binding

Once you have all of the necessary tools, it’s time to prepare your binding. Start by measuring the perimeter of your quilt to determine how much binding you will need. Add a few extra inches for overlap and seam allowances. Next, cut your fabric into strips that are 2 ½ – 3 inches wide, depending on the size of your quilt.

If using single-fold or bias tape bindings, fold over one edge of the strip and press it flat with an iron. For double-fold and stretch bindings, fold over both edges of the strip and press them flat. This step will make attaching your binding easier and more precise.

Attaching Your Binding

Now comes the fun part – sewing your binding onto your quilt! Start by laying out your fabric on a flat surface with the right side facing up. Place one end of your prepared binding at one corner of your quilt with the raw edges aligned. Use clips or pins to hold it in place.

Sew along the edge using a ¼-inch seam allowance, stopping about ¼ inch from the edge. Remove from the machine and use scissors or rotary cutter to trim off any excess fabric, leaving ¼ inch seam allowance. Fold over this trimmed edge so that it is even with the top edge of your quilt.

Continue sewing all around the rest of your quilt, following these same steps at each corner. When you reach the starting point, overlap the ends of your binding by a few inches and cut off any excess. Press the seam open, then fold the binding over to encase the raw edges and stitch it down securely.

Finishing Touches

Once your binding is completely attached to your quilt, you can trim off any loose threads and give it a final press to ensure a smooth finish. If you used fabric glue in the beginning, make sure it has fully dried before trimming off any excess.

If you prefer a more decorative look, you can topstitch along the outer edge of your binding. This not only adds a finished touch but also helps secure the binding in place if it begins to wear over time. For added durability, consider sewing another row of stitching ¼ inch from the edge on the inside of your quilt.

Sewing binding onto a quilt may seem like a daunting task at first, but with some practice and these tips, you’ll be able to create beautiful and professional-looking finishes on all of your quilts. Remember to choose the right type of binding for your project and have all necessary tools on hand before beginning. With proper preparation and careful stitching

Q: What materials do I need to sew binding on a quilt?
A: You will need binding fabric, scissors, a sewing machine, pins, and an iron.

Q: Can I sew binding on my quilt by hand?
A: Yes, you can sew binding by hand using a needle and thread if you prefer not to use a sewing machine.

Q: How do I determine how much binding fabric to use for my quilt?
A: Measure the perimeter of your quilt and add 8-10 inches for corner miters and joining ends. Then divide that number by the width of your chosen binding strips (usually 2.5 inches) to get the amount of fabric needed.

Q: Do I need to pre-wash my fabric before sewing on the binding?
A: It is recommended to pre-wash your fabric before sewing on the binding to prevent any shrinkage that may occur during the washing process.

Q: What is the best way to attach the beginning and ending of my binding strip?
A: To avoid bulkiness, it is best to attach the beginning and ending of your binding strip using a diagonal seam and trim any excess fabric before folding and sewing down the edges.

Q: Can I use different colors or prints for my quilt’s binding?
A: Yes, you can use different colors or prints for your quilt’s binding. However, keep in mind that coordinating colors or prints will give a more uniform look while contrasting colors or prints can create a bold statement.

In conclusion, learning how to sew binding on a quilt is an important skill for any quilter to master. It not only gives a professional and polished finish to a quilt, but it also ensures its durability and longevity. Throughout this guide, we have covered the various steps and techniques involved in sewing binding onto a quilt, including preparing the binding strips, attaching them to the quilt, and finishing off with mitered corners.

In addition to the technical aspects, we have also discussed some tips and tricks that can make the process easier and more efficient. These include using clips instead of pins, prewashing fabric before cutting binding strips, and utilizing a walking foot for even stitching.

It is essential to remember that practice makes perfect when it comes to sewing binding on a quilt. While it may seem daunting at first, with patience and persistence, anyone can become proficient in this technique.

Furthermore, using high-quality materials such as quilting thread and quilting needles can greatly improve the final outcome of the project. These small investments can make a big difference in the overall appearance and functionality of your quilt’s binding.

Lastly, one of the most important takeaways from this topic is the importance of attention to detail. From accurate measurements to precise stitching, every step counts when it comes to achieving

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.