Mastering Machine Sewing: A Step-by-Step Guide to Binding Your Quilt

AvatarByJill Nammar Quiting

Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just starting out, adding a binding to your quilt is an essential step that can elevate your project to the next level. Not only does it provide a polished finish, but it also helps protect the edges of your quilt from wear and tear. However, the thought of tackling this step with a sewing machine can be intimidating for some. But fear not, in this article we will guide you through the process of machine sewing a binding on a quilt. From choosing the right materials to mastering crucial techniques, get ready to take your quilting skills to the next level and create beautiful, professional-looking quilts that will last for years to come.

What is a Binding and Why is it Important in Quilting?

When it comes to quilting, one of the most crucial steps is finishing off the edges of your quilt. This is where binding comes in. A binding is a strip of fabric that is used to wrap around the raw edges of a quilt to give it a neat and polished look. Not only does binding add aesthetic value to your quilt, but it also serves as a protective barrier for the raw edges, preventing fraying and wear over time.

Before diving into how to machine sew a binding on a quilt, it is essential to understand the different types of bindings available. The two most common types are single-fold bindings and double-fold bindings. Single-fold bindings involve folding one edge of the fabric strip and attaching it to the front of the quilt’s edge with machine stitching. Double-fold bindings are created by folding both edges of the fabric strip and then sewing it onto both sides of your quilt with machine stitching. Double-fold bindings are considered more durable and are better suited for quilts that will receive heavy use.

Supplies You Will Need

To get started on sewing a binding on your quilt using your trusty sewing machine, there are some essential supplies you will need:

1. A rotary cutter or scissors
2. A cutting mat
3. Ruler or measuring tape
4. Fabric marking pen or chalk
5. Pins
6. Sewing machine with zigzag or decorative stitch option
7. Thread (preferably matching your fabric)
8. Iron and ironing board
9. Fabric glue (optional)

Preparing Your Quilt for Binding

Before you can begin sewing your binding onto your quilt, there are a few preparations you need to make:

1. Trim excess batting: Use your rotary cutter or scissors and trim any excess batting around the edges of your quilt. This will make it easier to attach the binding.
2. Square up your quilt: Ensure all corners of your quilt are perfectly square by trimming any uneven edges.
3. Iron your quilt: Give your quilt a good press with an iron to ensure it is smooth and free from any wrinkles.

Creating Your Binding Strips

The next step is to create your fabric strips that will serve as your binding. You can either purchase pre-made binding or make your own using the following steps:

1. Measure the perimeter of your quilt: Use a measuring tape or ruler to determine how much binding you will need for your quilt.
2. Add extra length: Add 10-12 inches of extra length to ensure you have enough binding to finish off the entire edge of your quilt and for overlapping when joining the ends.
3. Cut fabric strips: Using a rotary cutter or scissors, cut strips of fabric that are 2 ½ inches wide and as long as the measurement calculated in step 1 and 2. If using pre-made binding, skip this step.

Attaching The Binding To Your Quilt

Now that your quilt is prepped, and your binding strips are ready, it’s time to sew them onto your quilt.

1. Start at one corner: Beginning at one corner of the quilt, leave about a 6-inch tail of binding and align it with the raw edge on the front side.
2. Pin in place: As you work along one edge at a time, use pins to hold the raw edge of the binding in place before sewing.
3. Sew along edge with machine stitching: With a zigzag or decorative stitch enabled on your sewing machine, stitch ¼ inch from the raw edge of both layers (quilt top and binding) while making sure to catch both in each stitch.
4. Mitering corners: When you reach a corner, stitch all the way to the edge, stop and lift the needle. Fold the binding up and away from your quilt at a 45-degree angle. Then fold back down over itself in line with the next edge and continue sewing.
5. Joining ends: Once you reach the start point, overlap your binding strips, matching raw edges, and sew across with a straight stitch. Trim excess binding.
6. Finish attaching binding: Continue sewing around all sides of your quilt until you have joined all four corners.

Finishing Touches

The final steps involve finishing off your binding neatly for a professional look.

1. Fold and press: Open out the binding to create a straight line between the mitered corners. Then fold it back down towards the quilt, encasing the raw edge with it.
2. Sew in place: Use pins to keep it in place and stitch in a decorative or zigzag stitch along the whole length of your binding.
3. Glue or hand-stitch on the back: On the back side of your quilt, you can either hand-stitch or use fabric glue along each edge of your binding to secure it in place.

Troubleshooting Common

What is Machine Sewing a Binding on a Quilt?

Machine sewing a binding on a quilt is the process of attaching a fabric strip to the edges of a quilt to give it a finished look. This method creates a clean and neat edge while also providing some durability to the quilt. Unlike hand sewing, machine sewing offers efficiency and precision, making it the preferred method for many quilters.

Supplies Needed

Before you start machine sewing a binding on your quilt, you’ll need to gather some supplies. These include fabric for the binding, pins or clips, scissors, an iron and ironing board, thread, and of course, your trusty sewing machine. It’s essential to have all these supplies ready before you begin to ensure that you don’t have any unnecessary interruptions during the process.

Preparing Your Quilt

Before attaching the binding, you’ll want to make sure that your quilt is well prepared. This means that all basting stitches and safety pins should be removed from the edges. You can also trim any uneven edges if necessary. Additionally, if your quilt has curved edges, it can be helpful to mark them with chalk or washable markers before attaching the binding.

Cutting and Joining Your Binding Strips

The width of your binding strip will depend on personal preference and can range from 1 ½ inches to 3 inches. Once you’ve determined the width of your strips, cut them at an angle of 45 degrees for easy joining later on. If your quilt is larger than one yard square, it’s recommended to join multiple strips together using diagonal seams until you have enough length to go around your entire quilt.

Attaching the Binding

Start by pressing one end of your binding strip at an angle of 45 degrees towards the wrong side of the fabric. Then, align the raw edges of the binding with the raw edge of your quilt’s front side. Secure this in place with pins or clips, making sure that there are no puckers or tucks on either side. Start sewing at least half an inch from the corner, using a quarter-inch seam allowance and backstitching at the beginning and end.

Pivoting and Mitering Corners

When you reach a corner, stop sewing about a quarter-inch before the end. Lift the presser foot and pivot your quilt 45 degrees to continue sewing down the next side. This method creates a neat mitered corner with no exposed edges. Continue sewing until you reach the starting point, leaving a few inches of unsewn binding.

Joining Ends

Once you’ve sewn around all four sides of your quilt, it’s time to join the two ends of your binding together. Lay out your quilt flat, and trim one end of your binding strip at an angle that matches the opposite end. Then, fold back the trimmed edge and press it down before folding over the opposite end and stitching them together with a straight seam.

Finishing Touches

Finally, fold over the remaining unsewn portion of your binding strip towards the wrong side of your quilt and secure it in place with pins or clips. Blind stitch this folded edge to create an invisible finish on both sides of your quilt. Press out any wrinkles or creases for a perfect final result.

Machine sewing a binding on a quilt may seem like a daunting task but with these step-by-step instructions, you can easily achieve a professional-looking finish for your quilts. Remember to take your time and have patience when sewing to avoid any mistakes. With some practice, you’ll be able to master this technique and add your own personal touch to each quilt you create. Happy sewing!

Q: What is a binding on a quilt?
A: A binding is a strip of fabric used to cover the raw edges of a quilt and provide a finished look.

Q: Do I need special sewing skills to machine sew a binding on a quilt?
A: Basic sewing skills are required, but with some practice, anyone can sew a binding on a quilt using a sewing machine.

Q: What supplies do I need to machine sew a binding on a quilt?
A: You will need your quilt, fabric for the binding, pins, scissors, ruler or measuring tape, sewing machine, and thread.

Q: What is the best way to prepare the fabric for the binding?
A: The fabric for the binding should be cut into strips at least 2.5 inches wide and then pressed in half lengthwise.

Q: How do I attach the binding to the quilt?
A: Start by attaching the binding to one side of the quilt with raw edges matching. Use straight pins or clips to hold it in place before sewing.

Q: How do I create neat corners when attaching the binding?
A: When nearing each corner, stop stitching approximately 1/4 inch from the edge. Lift your presser foot and turn your project at right angle. Continue stitching. This will create mitered corners.

In conclusion, learning how to machine sew a binding on a quilt is an essential skill for any quilter. It not only adds a professional and polished finish to your quilt, but it also ensures the longevity of your project. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily master this technique and achieve beautiful results.

Firstly, it is important to prepare your quilt by trimming and squaring the edges to ensure an even binding application. Then, choosing the right binding fabric and cutting it on the bias will allow for more flexibility and easier manipulation when attaching it to your quilt.

Next, using a walking foot and machine basting can greatly assist in keeping the layers of your quilt together during the binding process. It is also crucial to accurately measure and mark your seam allowance as this will determine the width of your final binding.

As you machine sew the binding onto your quilt, maintaining an even seam allowance and taking care with corners will produce a neat and professional look. Remember to take your time and adjust stitch length as needed.

Finally, hand sewing or topstitching the back of the binding will provide a clean finish and secure all edges neatly in place. With practice and patience, you can perfect this skill and confidently apply bindings to all your future quilting projects.

Author Profile

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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.