Mastering the Art of Bias Binding: A Step-by-Step Guide for Quilters

Quilting is not just a craft, it’s an art form. And one of the most important techniques in quilting is bias binding. Whether you are new to quilting or a seasoned pro, learning how to make your own bias binding is a crucial skill. Not only does it add a beautiful finishing touch to your quilt, but it also allows for more creative freedom and customization. In this article, we will explore the process of making bias binding for a quilt, step-by-step. So grab your fabric and sewing supplies, and let’s dive into the world of bias binding!

Bias binding is an important and essential aspect of creating a professional and polished quilt. Not only does it add a decorative touch, but it also reinforces the edges of the quilt and helps to prevent fraying. As the name suggests, bias binding is cut on the bias, or diagonal, of the fabric, allowing it to stretch around curves and corners. While pre-made binding is available in stores, making your own bias binding gives you more control over the color, pattern, and width used. In this guide, we will dive into the steps for creating bias binding for a quilt and provide tips for achieving a flawless finish.

Understanding Bias Binding

Before we dive into the process of making bias binding for a quilt, it’s important to understand what exactly it is and why it’s used in quilting.

Bias binding refers to strips of fabric that are cut on the bias, or 45-degree angle from the straight grain of fabric. This means that instead of being cut parallel or perpendicular to the selvage edge (the finished edge of the fabric), they are cut at an angle.

So why use this type of binding? The answer lies in the way bias-cut fabric behaves. Cutting fabric on an angle allows it to have more stretch and flexibility compared to strips cut on either side of the straight grain. When using bias binding on curved edges or corners in a quilt, this stretchiness allows for a smooth application without any puckering.

Making your own bias binding also allows you to choose from a wider range of fabrics than what may be available in stores. You can match or coordinate with your project’s colors and patterns perfectly without being limited by commercial options.

Tools Needed for Making Bias Binding

To make your own bias binding for a quilt, you will need a few essential tools that can be found at most craft stores:

– Fabric: Start with at least a 1-yard piece of fabric for making bias binding. Depending on the size of your quilt, you may need more. It’s best to choose a lightweight and durable cotton fabric that is easy to work with.
– Rotary cutter: This cutting tool will make creating bias strips quick and precise.
– Cutting mat: This will protect your work surface and help maintain accuracy when cutting the fabric.
– Quilting ruler: A rotary quilting ruler is essential for ensuring straight and accurate lines when cutting the fabric.
– Scissors: These will be used to square off the edges of your fabric before cutting into strips.
– Iron and ironing board: Having a large, flat surface to iron your fabric on is crucial for creating crisp and smooth bias binding.
– Sewing machine: While it is possible to sew bias binding by hand, using a sewing machine will save time and give you a cleaner finish.

Steps for Making Bias Binding

Now that you have all the necessary tools, let’s dive into the steps for creating bias binding for a quilt.

Step 1: Preparing Your Fabric

Start by washing and drying your chosen fabric to ensure any shrinkage has occurred before cutting. Then, lay it out flat on your cutting mat and use scissors to trim off any uneven or frayed edges.

Step 2: Cutting Fabric Strips on the Bias

Using a rotary cutter and quilting ruler, cut the fabric into strips on the bias. The width of these strips will depend on how wide you want your finished binding to be. A common width for quilt binding is 2.5 inches.

To determine how many strips you need, measure all four sides of your quilt and add them together. Then, add an additional 10 inches to this length for each corner in your quilt (since corners require more binding). Next, divide this total length by 40 (the average width of a strip). This will give you the number of strips needed.

Step 3: Sewing Strips Together

To create a continuous length of bias binding, you will need to sew the individual strips together at their ends. Place two strips right sides together at a 90-degree angle, aligning them so that one end hangs over the other. Sew diagonally across the ends, using a ¼ inch seam allowance. Trim any excess fabric and press the seams open.

Repeat this process until all of your strips are connected into one long continuous piece.

Step 4: Ironing the Binding

Lay out your sewn-together bias binding on your ironing board, wrong side up. Fold one edge over towards the center crease and press it in place with an iron. Then, fold over the opposite edge towards the center crease and press again. Finally, fold the entire strip in half, matching up both folded edges and pressing again. You should now have a long strip with no raw edges showing.

Applying Bias Binding to Your Quilt

Now that your bias binding is prepared, it’s time to attach it to your quilt edge. Here are some tips for achieving a seamless finish:

– Start by laying your

What is Bias Binding?

Bias binding is a fabric strip that is used to finish the raw edges of a quilt or any other sewing project. It is created by cutting strips of fabric on the bias, which is at a 45-degree angle to the selvage of the fabric. Bias binding provides a durable and clean finish to the edges of your quilt, giving it a professional-looking appearance.

Why Use Bias Binding for Quilts?

Using bias binding for quilts has many benefits. Firstly, cutting it on the bias allows it to have more give and flexibility, making it easier to maneuver around corners and curves. This makes it ideal for finishing off the edges of a quilt, where there are often many different angles and curves. Additionally, bias binding adds strength and stability to the edges of your quilt, making them less prone to fraying or fraying over time.

How Do You Cut Bias Binding Strips?

To make your own bias binding for your quilt, you will first need to determine how wide you want your strips to be. A common width for bias binding is 2.5 inches, but you can adjust this based on your personal preference and project requirements.

Once you have decided on the width, take your chosen fabric and lay it out flat on your work surface. Then find one corner and fold it down diagonally so that the right sides are facing each other, forming a triangle shape.

Next, use a rotary cutter or scissors to cut along the fold line to create a straight edge. Then measure out strips that are equal in width to your desired size. You can do this using a ruler or by folding the fabric at an angle and cutting along those lines until you have enough strips for your project.

How Do You Sew Bias Binding onto Your Quilt?

Before sewing your bias binding onto your quilt, you will need to prepare it by pressing it in half lengthwise, with the wrong sides facing each other. This creates a neat and clean fold line down the center of the strip.

Next, you will need to open up your quilt and lay it out flat on your work surface. Starting from one corner, align the raw edge of your binding with the raw edge of your quilt, leaving a tail of about 5 inches at the beginning. Pin the binding in place and start sewing along the edge using a ¼ inch seam allowance.

As you reach each corner, stop sewing about ¼ inch away from the edge and pivot your quilt so that you can sew along the next side. When you reach the beginning again, stop sewing a few inches before your starting point and leave another tail of around 5 inches. Trim off any excess binding and overlap the two tails to create a straight join. Then finish sewing until you reach your starting point.

How Do You Finish Bias Binding on a Quilt?

To finish off bias binding on a quilt, you will need to fold it over to cover up the raw edges of both sides. This can be done either by hand or machine.

To do it by hand, press open both bindings and fold them inwards so that they meet along the center crease line. Then fold them over again towards the back of your quilt, enclosing the raw edges inside. Secure with pins or clips and hand sew along this edge using an invisible stitch.

Alternatively, if you prefer to use a machine, simply press open both bindings and sandwich them around the raw edges of your quilt so that they meet at the center crease line. Sew along this folded edge using a straight stitch or any decorative stitch of your choice.

Bias binding is an essential finishing touch for any quilt as it not only adds strength and stability but also gives it a professional and polished look. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily create your own bias binding and use it to beautifully finish off your quilts. So the next time you are working on a quilt, remember to incorporate bias binding for a clean and durable edge.

Q: What is bias binding and why is it used in quilting?
A: Bias binding is a strip of fabric that has been cut on a 45 degree angle to the straight grain of the fabric. It is commonly used in quilting because it has more flexibility and can easily go around curves, making it perfect for finishing edges.

Q: How do I determine the amount of fabric needed for bias binding?
A: To calculate the amount of fabric needed for bias binding, measure the total length of the quilt’s edges that will require binding. Multiply this measurement by 2.25 to get the length of fabric needed. This will account for seam allowances and allow for extra length to join the strips together.

Q: What tools do I need to make bias binding?
A: To make bias binding, you will need a cutting mat, rotary cutter, ruler, iron, pins, needle and thread, and a sewing machine.

Q: Can I use any type of fabric for bias binding?
A: Quilters typically use 100% cotton fabric for their bindings as it is easy to work with and holds well when pressed. However, other types of fabric such as flannel or satin can also be used.

Q: How do I cut my fabric on the bias?
A: Start by folding your fabric diagonally so that one edge aligns with the opposite selvage edge. Then cut off this folded edge at a 45 degree angle using your ruler and rotary cutter. From there, you can continue cutting your desired width of strips.

Q: Is there a specific technique to sewing on bias binding?
A: Yes, when sewing on bias binding you will need to stretch the strip slightly as you sew around curves or corners. This will allow the binding to lay flat and prevent puckering. You may also need to add a crease or iron the binding in half to make it easier to attach and ensure an even width.

In conclusion, bias binding is an essential finishing touch for any quilt. Learning how to make it yourself not only adds a personal touch to your project, but also allows for more customization and creativity. By following the steps outlined above, you can create bias binding that is durable, neat, and precise. Remember to use the correct measurements and techniques to ensure a professional-looking finish. Additionally, always check the width of your finished binding before attaching it to your quilt, as this can greatly affect the overall look of your project.

Furthermore, while bias binding may seem daunting at first, the benefits of learning how to make it outweigh any initial challenges. It allows for better maneuverability around curved edges and creates a more durable edge that will last through multiple washings. By understanding the principles behind bias binding and practicing with different techniques and materials, one can become proficient in its creation.

Finally, always remember to take your time when making bias binding and don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries to perfect it. With patience and practice, you will be able to create beautiful binding that adds a polished touch to your quilting projects. So go ahead and try making bias binding for your next quilt – not only will it elevate your finished product, but it will also add a sense of

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.