Master the Art of Machine Stitching Quilt Binding: A Step-by-Step Guide

Quilting is a beloved craft that has been passed down through generations, producing beautiful, functional works of art. And while many aspects of quilting may seem daunting to beginners, one of the most essential skills to master is machine stitching quilt binding. This technique not only gives a professional finish to your quilt, but also provides durability and longevity. Whether you’re new to quilting or looking to refine your skills, this article will guide you through the process of machine stitching quilt binding and leave you with a stunning finished product. So let’s dive in and discover the secrets to achieving perfectly bound quilts!

When it comes to quilting, one of the most essential and final steps is attaching the binding. This is what gives your quilt a professional and finished look. While hand stitching the binding is a popular method, machine stitching can be a time-saving and efficient option for many quilters. In this guide, we will dive into the process of how to machine stitch quilt binding, step by step.

Understanding Quilt Binding

Before we get into the specifics of machine stitching quilt binding, it’s important to understand what quilt binding actually is. Quilt binding refers to the finished edge that surrounds the outer perimeter of your quilt. It prevents the edges from fraying and also adds a decorative touch to your completed quilt.

There are two types of quilt bindings – single-fold binding and double-fold binding. Single-fold binding involves folding one side of the fabric strip towards its center, while double-fold binding involves folding both sides towards the center. In this guide, we will focus on double-fold binding as it provides more durability and a cleaner finish.

Choosing The Right Binding

The first step in machine stitching quilt binding is choosing the right type of fabric for your binding. Since this is an essential part of your quilt’s appearance, you want to ensure it complements or contrasts with your quilt top in terms of color and design.

When selecting fabric for your binding, consider using 100% cotton or flannel as they are easy to manipulate and stitch without stretching or puckering. If you prefer a thicker or coarser look, you can also use denim or corduroy as your binding fabric.

Another factor to consider before selecting your fabric is how much yardage you’ll need. This will depend on the size of your quilt, but typically for double-fold bindings, you will need at least two inches of extra fabric for every linear inch of the perimeter of your quilt.

Preparing The Quilt For Binding

Now that you have your binding fabric selected and prepared, it’s time to attach it to your quilt. Before starting the machine stitching process, ensure that your quilt top and backing are properly aligned and basted together. You can use pins or temporary adhesive spray for this step.

It’s important to leave a one-quarter inch allowance all around the perimeter of your quilt top so that the binding fabric can be attached without covering any significant design elements. You can mark this one-quarter inch allowance with a washable fabric marker or use quilting rulers to measure and ensure accuracy.

Prepping The Binding

To make stitching the binding easier, it’s helpful to pre-iron the binding strips before attaching them to your quilt. Start by folding the binding strip in half lengthwise and pressing it with an iron. This will create a crease in the center, making it easier for you to line up and attach the binding to your quilt.

Next, align one edge of the binding strip with the raw edge of your quilt top, leaving a few inches of unattached binding at the beginning for joining later. Sew through all three layers (quilt, backing, and binding) using a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Ensure that you backstitch at both ends to secure the stitches.

Joining The Ends

As you continue sewing along each side of your quilt, keep an eye out for when you reach where you started sewing – this is where you’ll need to join both ends of the binding strip seamlessly. To do this, trim one end of the binding strip so that it overlaps with the other end by two inches.

Unfold both ends of the strips so that they lay on top of each other. Next, place them right sides together and sew a diagonal line from the top left corner to the bottom right corner of the overlapping square created by the binding strip ends. Trim off any excess fabric and press the seam open.

Once joined, fold the binding strip back in half lengthwise and resume sewing along the edge of your quilt. Repeat this process for all four corners, ensuring that you leave a few inches of unattached binding at each end for joining.

Finishing The Binding

After attaching and joining all four sides of your quilt, it’s time to finish off the binding. To do this, fold the binding towards the back of your quilt, making sure it covers the stitching line from attaching it to your quilt top. Pin or use clips to hold it in place.

Finally, use either a blind stitch or a decorative stitch on your sewing machine to secure the binding to the back of your quilt. A blind stitch will hide any stitches on the front of your quilt, while a decorative stitch can add an extra touch to your finished quilt.

Stitching quilt binding with a sewing machine may seem intimidating at first, but with practice and patience, it can become an efficient and quick process. By choosing the right fabric for your binding and carefully preparing both

Understanding the Basics of Quilt Binding Stitching

Quilt binding is a crucial aspect of finishing any quilt project. It refers to the process of enclosing the raw edges of a quilt sandwich, i.e. the quilt top, batting, and backing fabric, to create a clean and professional-looking finish. One of the most common techniques for quilt binding is stitching it by machine. While some quilters prefer hand stitching for its precision and aesthetic appeal, machine stitching offers a faster and more practical option for those looking to complete their quilts in a timely manner. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of how to machine stitch quilt binding.

Preparing Your Quilt Sandwich

Before diving into machine-stitching your quilt binding, it’s crucial to ensure that your quilt sandwich is well prepared. This means trimming off any excess batting or backing fabric and squaring up your quilt top so that all sides are straight and even. It’s also helpful to iron out any wrinkles or creases in your fabrics beforehand as they may interfere with the accuracy of your stitches.

Once your quilt sandwich is well prepared, you can begin by attaching your double-fold bias tape or fabric strips onto one side of the quilt. Make sure to leave an overhang on both ends of at least 6-8 inches as this will allow you to join them later on.

Sewing on the Binding Tape with a Machine

To begin sewing, place your quilt sandwich under your sewing machine foot with the raw edges aligned with the edge guide on your footplate. Start sewing about 1/4 inch from where you joined your two ends together and continue all around until you reach back at where you started. Remember to sew slowly and evenly as this will ensure straight and accurate stitches.

As you near each corner of your quilt, stop sewing about 1/4 inch before reaching the corner and backstitch to secure your stitches. Leave the needle in the down position, lift your presser foot, and pivot your quilt sandwich to align the next side with the edge guide. You can also mark a 45-degree angle on your binding tape to use as a guide when pivoting at each corner.

Joining the Binding Ends

Once you have reached back at where you started sewing, you should have an overhang of both ends of your binding tape. To join them together, lay one end over the other, right sides together, and mark a diagonal line from one corner of the top layer to the opposite corner of the bottom layer. Sew along this diagonal line and trim off any excess seam allowance.

After joining both ends, finish sewing down the remaining edges of your quilt binding until you reach back at where you started sewing.

Finishing Up Your Quilt Binding

With all sides of your quilt binding stitched down, it’s now time to finish off by mitering or squaring up each corner of your quilt. To do this, fold each corner in by aligning both raw edges with each other and press down firmly. This will create a neat and sharp corner on your quilt.

Finally, fold your binding tape over to cover all raw edges and pin it in place. You can then either hand stitch or use a blind hem foot on your machine to finish off sewing down this last step of enclosing all raw edges in place.

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

To ensure that your machine-stitched quilt binding looks professional and lasts for years to come, make sure to regularly clean and maintain your sewing machine as well as change needles when necessary. Additionally, always test out different stitch lengths and tension settings on scrap fabric before sewing on your actual quilt project to avoid any mistakes.

In case you encounter any issues such as skipped stitches or puckering, try adjusting your tension or changing to a different needle size. For an extra secure finish, you can also topstitch around the edges of your quilt binding and use a walking foot for added stability.

Machine quilting may seem daunting at first, but with practice and the right tools, it can be an efficient and effective method for finishing your quilt projects. By following these steps and tips on how to machine stitch quilt binding, you can achieve crisp and professional-looking edges on all your future quilts. Remember to take your time, stay patient, and always keep practicing until you perfect this skill. Happy sewing!

1. What is quilt binding and why is it important in quilting?
Quilt binding is a fabric strip that is used to cover and protect the raw edges of a quilt. It serves as the finishing touch to a quilt, giving it a polished and professional look.

2. What materials do I need to machine stitch quilt binding?
You will need your quilt, binding fabric, sewing machine, thread, scissors, pins, iron, and ironing board.

3. How do I prepare the quilt for binding?
Before you start sewing your binding onto the quilt, make sure that all the threads are trimmed and the edges are straight. Lay your quilt flat on an ironing board and press out any wrinkles or lumps.

4. What is the best method for attaching binding to my quilt by machine?
The most common method of attaching binding by machine is called “stitch in the ditch.” This involves sewing a straight stitch along the seam line between the body of the quilt and the binding.

5. Can I use a regular sewing machine foot for stitching my quilt binding?
Yes, you can use a regular sewing machine foot for stitching your quilt binding. However, some quilters prefer using a walking foot or an open-toe foot for better control and visibility while stitching.

6. How do I finish off my machine-stitched quilt binding neatly?
To finish off your machine-stitched quilt binding neatly, fold over the remaining end of your binding at a 45-degree angle and tuck it under to create a neat mitered corner. Then continue stitching until you reach where you started to create an invisible seam join. Finally, fold over the binding to cover the raw edge and stitch in place to secure it.

In conclusion, mastering the skill of machine stitching quilt binding is crucial for any quilter. It provides a professional and polished finish to any quilt project. By following the steps outlined in this guide, one can confidently create beautiful and durable quilt bindings using their sewing machine.

The first step to successfully machine stitching quilt binding is preparation. This includes selecting suitable fabrics and tools, as well as accurately measuring and cutting the binding strips.

Next, it is important to know which type of stitch to use for specific types of bindings. The most commonly used stitches are the straight stitch and the zigzag stitch. Each one has its own benefits, but ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the desired outcome.

Proper technique is crucial when it comes to machine stitching quilt binding. Maintaining a consistent seam allowance, using pins or clips to secure the binding in place, and adjusting tension settings are all essential factors in achieving a clean and neat final result.

Despite its challenges, with practice and patience, anyone can master machine stitching quilt binding. Taking the time to learn this skill allows for more creative freedom when designing quilts and provides a professional touch that sets them apart from hand-stitched bindings.

In addition to being faster than hand-stitching, using a sewing machine for quilt binding also

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.