Unlocking the Mystery: How to Master Binding for Your Next Quilt Project

Quilting is a beloved art form that has been around for centuries, bringing warmth and beauty to our homes. And while there are countless aspects of quilting that can inspire awe, one of the most crucial and technical processes lies in figuring out the binding. From beginners to experienced quilters, this step can often be confusing and daunting. However, fear not! In this article, we will dive into the world of quilt binding and guide you through everything you need to know about how to figure binding for a quilt. So grab your fabrics and let’s get started on creating a beautiful, finished quilt masterpiece!

What is binding for a quilt?

Binding is the finishing touch to any quilt. It is the fabric strip that covers the raw edges of the quilt and provides a polished look. Binding not only adds aesthetic value to a quilt but also serves as a protective barrier to prevent wear and tear along the edges. It also helps in securing the layers of the quilt together, making it more durable and long-lasting.

Most quilts have three layers: top, batting, and backing. The binding is sewn on the very edge of these layers to cover them and finish off the quilt’s edges neatly. It is usually made of cotton or cotton blend fabric, just like the rest of the quilt, but can also be made from other materials such as satin or velvet for a more luxurious look.

Why do you need binding for a quilt?

In addition to adding an elegant finishing touch, binding serves several practical purposes for a quilt. Firstly, it ensures that all three layers of the quilt are held together firmly and prevent them from coming apart while using or washing. Secondly, it covers raw edges that can fray over time and damage the overall appearance of your quilt. Thirdly, binding protects the edges from wear and tear due to regular usage.

Another important aspect of using binding is that it conceals any imperfections in piecing or quilting near the edge of your quilt. Even if your corners are not perfectly squared off or your borders are not entirely straight, binding will give your quilt a professional look by covering up these flaws.

Types of binding for a quilt

There are two types of bindings used in quilting: single-fold (also known as flat) binding and double-fold (also known as French) binding.

Single-fold binding involves folding one edge of fabric towards its center and then folding it again over top another edge before attaching it to the quilt. This type of binding is easier and quicker to make but not as durable as double-fold binding.

Double-fold binding requires folding both edges of the fabric towards its center and then bringing them together to form a double layer. This type of binding is sturdier, more durable, and offers better protection to the edges of your quilt.

Calculating fabric requirement for binding

To calculate the amount of fabric needed for the binding, measure the perimeter of your quilt (total length + total width x 2). Add 10 inches to this measurement for a single-fold binding or add 12 inches for a double-fold binding. This additional fabric is needed for turning corners and overlapping the ends of the binding neatly.

For example, if your quilt measures 60 inches long and 50 inches wide, then its perimeter would be (60+50) x 2 = 220 inches. For a single-fold binding, you would need (220 + 10) = 230 inches or approximately 6.5 yards; for a double-fold binding, you would need (220 + 12) = 232 inches or approximately six and a half yards of fabric.

How to make single-fold binding

1. Cut your fabric into strips parallel to the selvage edges in the desired width. Most bindings are cut between 2-3 inches wide.

2. Sew strips together using diagonal seams until you have enough length to cover the perimeter of your quilt.

3. Fold one raw edge toward the center and press it in place. Repeat with the opposite raw edge.

4. Fold again along its center fold line (total width should be half of what it was initially). Press again.

5. Align one folded edge with one side of your quilt’s perimeter, leaving about an inch hanging on either end. Pin in place or use clips to secure it.

6. Sew the binding to the quilt, using a ¼ inch seam.

7. When you reach a corner, fold the binding up and away from the quilt at a 45-degree angle, then fold it back down to align with the next side of the quilt. This should create a neat mitered corner.

8. Continue sewing around your quilt, repeating this step for each corner.

9. When you reach where you started, join the two ends of binding by overlapping them about an inch and sewing them together. Trim off any excess fabric.

10. Fold the binding over to cover the raw edges of your quilt’s perimeter and secure it in place with pins or clips.

11. Finally, sew along the outer edge of your binding with either a straight stitch or decorative zig-zag stitch to finish it off.

How to make double-fold binding

1. Cut your fabric into strips parallel to the selvage edges in a width that is double what you want for your finished binding (e.g., 3 inches wide strips for a 1-½ inch finished width).

2. Sew strips together using diagonal seams until you have enough length to cover the perimeter of your quilt.

3. With wrong sides together, fold one raw

Understanding Binding for a Quilt

Binding is an essential part of finishing a quilt. It not only adds a professional touch but also serves as a protective edge, preventing the seams on the edges of the quilt from wearing out. Binding fabric helps to hold all the layers of your quilt together and provides a neat and structured finish. Assembling and attaching binding to a quilt may seem intimidating, particularly for beginners, but with some guidance and practice, it can be easily mastered.

Types of Quilt Binding

There are various types of binding used for quilts, and each has its unique characteristics:
1. Straight Grain Binding – This is the most common type of binding used for quilts. It is made by cutting long strips of fabric on the lengthwise grain and sewing them together to create one long continuous strip.

2. Bias Binding – In this type of binding, fabric is cut diagonally across the grain instead of straight along it. This allows for more stretch and flexibility, making it ideal for curved or irregular edges.

3. Double-Fold Binding – This type of binding is created by folding in half both sides of a straight-grain or bias-cut strip before attaching it to your quilt.

4. Single-Fold Binding – In this method, only one side of the strip gets folded in half before being sewn onto the quilt.

5. Continuous Bias Binding – This technique involves creating one long continuous piece of bias binding from one single square piece of fabric without any seams.

6. Flange Quilt Binding – Flange binding adds an interesting detail to your quilt by creating a visible flange or accent between your backing fabric and your binding strip.

Calculating Fabric Required for Quilt Binding

Before you start cutting your fabric for binding, you need to calculate how much you will need. For single-fold binding made from a straight grain, the formula is as follows:
({(Desired finished binding width) x 2} + seam allowance) x (Number of sides to be bound)
For double-fold binding, the calculation would be:
({Desired finished binding width} + {Folded part}) x (Number of sides to be bound)

Preparing and Cutting Quilt Binding

Once you have calculated the required fabric for your quilt binding, it’s time to prepare and cut your strips. It is essential to ensure that your cuts are neat with clean edges. You can use a rotary cutter or scissors for cutting your strips. Remember to cut them along the grain or on the bias for stretchy and curved edges.

Assembling Binding Strips

After cutting your strips, it is time to assemble them into one long continuous piece. To do this, lay two strips perpendicular to each other with right sides together at a 90-degree angle. Sew diagonally across from one corner to another, and then trim the excess fabric leaving a quarter-inch seam allowance.

Continue doing this until all your strips are connected into one long strip. Press open all seams on the fabric and trim any extra threads hanging off.

Attaching Binding to Your Quilt

Start attaching the binding strip by laying it on one edge of your quilt with raw edges aligned, leaving an unsewn tail of a few inches. Sew along the edge with a quarter-inch seam allowance.

When you reach each corner, stop sewing at a quarter-inch distance from the edge before pivoting and sewing towards the next side of your quilt – forming a perfect mitered corner. Repeat this process until all sides of your quilt are bound.

When you reach where you started, tuck in both raw ends and sew them together using a diagonal seam.

Finishing Off Your Quilt Binding

Lastly, fold the binding over the raw edges of your quilt towards the back. Use a needle and thread to whip stitch or do blind hem stitch all around. Make sure your stitches are invisible from the front of the quilt for a clean and professional look.

Once you have gone around the entire quilt, you can gently press it to give it a crisp finish. Your beautiful handmade quilt is now ready to be shared or kept as a family heirloom.

Tips for Perfectly Bound Quilts

1. Choose high-quality fabric with minimal stretch.
2. Press your fabric before cutting it to ensure accurate measurements.
3. Use a walking foot when attaching binding to reduce stretching.
4. Cut your binding strips on the lengthwise grain for straight edges or diagonally for curved edges.
5. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to try different binding methods and techniques.

Knowing how to figure out binding for a quilt is crucial in achieving a beautiful and professional-looking finish. By understanding different types of binding, calculating fabric requirements, and following simple steps for assembly and attachment, you can easily create perfect bindings for all your future quilting projects. With some practice and experimentation, you

Q: What is binding?
A: Binding is the edging that goes around the outside of a quilt, securing all of the layers together.

Q: What is the purpose of binding?
A: The purpose of binding is to provide a clean and finished edge to a quilt, as well as to prevent the fabric from fraying or coming apart.

Q: How do you determine how much binding you need for a quilt?
A: To figure out how much binding you will need for your quilt, add up the length of all four sides of your quilt and add 20 inches for seams and corners.

Q: Can I use any type of fabric for binding?
A: You can use any type of fabric for binding, but it is recommended to use a high-quality cotton or muslin fabric that will withstand frequent washing and wear.

Q: What tools do I need to create binding for my quilt?
A: To make your own binding, you will need a rotary cutter, cutting mat, ruler, fabric marking pencil or pen, an iron and ironing board, sewing machine, thread, and scissors.

Q: How do I attach the binding to my quilt?
A: To attach the binding to your quilt, start by attaching it to one side with pins or clips. Sew together with a ¼ inch seam allowance. Turn the corner and continue sewing until all sides are attached. Fold over the raw edge of the binding towards the backside of the quilt and hand stitch in place.

In conclusion, figuring out the binding for a quilt may seem like a daunting task, but by following a few simple steps, anyone can successfully complete this final step of quilting. It is essential to measure accurately and have a clear understanding of the fabric grain, as this will impact the appearance and durability of the binding. Choosing high-quality binding fabric that complements the quilt top is also crucial in creating a cohesive and professional-looking finished product.

Another vital aspect to consider is the technique used to attach the binding. Whether using machine or hand sewing methods, it is important to take your time and ensure that the binding is secured evenly and neatly around the quilt edges. This will not only enhance the look of your quilt but also increase its longevity.

Different types of quilts may require different techniques for calculating and attaching binding, but with practice and patience, anyone can master this skill. It is also helpful to consult resources such as quilting books or online tutorials to learn new methods and tips for achieving perfect bindings.

Lastly, remember that each quilt project is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to figuring out binding. Be open to experimenting with different techniques and materials until you find what works best for you. With practice and determination, you can become an expert in

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.