Master the Art of Binding: A Step-by-Step Guide for Putting on Quilt Binding

Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just starting out, adding binding to your quilt can be a daunting task. However, with the right tools and techniques, it can also be a rewarding and satisfying step in the quilting process. In this article, we will guide you through the process of putting on binding on a quilt. From choosing the right fabric to attaching it seamlessly, we’ll cover everything you need to know to achieve that perfect finished look. So grab your quilting supplies and get ready to learn how to put on binding like a pro!

Understanding Quilt Binding

Quilt bindings are the final touch that gives a quilt a polished and professional look. They are the fabric strips that are sewn around the edges of a quilt to cover the raw edges of the quilt top, batting, and backing. Bindings not only provide a neat finish but also protect the edges of the quilt from fraying.

There are various types of binding that can be used for quilts, such as straight grain binding, bias binding, and double-fold French binding. These bindings differ in their width, thickness, and flexibility. The type of binding chosen depends on personal preference and the type of quilt being made.

Preparing for Binding

Before starting on binding, make sure that your quilt top is completely finished. This includes trimming any excess batting or backing fabric to match the edges of your quilt top. Once you have a neat and even edge for your quilt top, it is time to start preparing for binding.

Firstly, measure the perimeter of your quilt to determine how much binding will be needed. Calculate this by adding up all four sides of your quilt and adding a few extra inches for overlap and seam allowance. To determine how many strips of fabric you will need, divide this measurement by the width of your chosen binding strip (usually 2 ½ inches). This should give you an even number – half for one side and half for the other.

Next, press your chosen fabric for binding to remove any wrinkles or creases. It is recommended to use either a straight-grain or bias cut fabric for your bindings as it provides more flexibility when sewing them onto curves.

Attaching Binding to Quilt

To start attaching your binding to the front of your quilt, fold one end at 45 degrees inwards towards its wrong side to create a clean edge. Place this end at the corner of your quilt with the wrong side facing up, aligning its raw edge with the raw edge of your quilt top. Secure this in place with a pin.

Then, continue to place your binding strip along the edge of your quilt, making sure that the raw edges are aligned. Stop about ¼ inch from the next corner and fold the binding strip upwards towards you, creating a neat mitered corner. Next, fold it back down along the next side of your quilt to continue stitching.

Continue attaching your binding in this manner until you reach the last corner. Once you have attached it all around and reached back to where you started, overlap about 1 inch of your binding strips at a 45-degree angle and trim off any excess fabric.

Finishing the Binding

To finish off your binding, fold it inwards towards its wrong side and press along its entire length. Then, stitch along the folded edge to secure it in place – either by hand or with a sewing machine using a blind hem stitch.

If you prefer more security, you can also choose to stitch on both sides of your binding – on both the front and back of your quilt – using a decorative stitch such as zig-zag or feather stitch.

Once all stitching is complete, give your quilt a final press to ensure that everything is flat and smooth. You now have successfully completed putting on binding on your quilt!

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter any issues while attaching bindings such as puckering or uneven edges, here are some tips to help troubleshoot:

– When attaching binding to curves, make sure to clip small notches around inner curves and small triangles around outer curves to allow fabric to lie flat.
– Keep an even tension while stitching through all layers to avoid any puckering.
– If working with thicker fabrics or multiple layers of batting and backing, consider using a different binding technique such as bias or French fold binding to create a neater and more professional finish.
– Practice makes perfect! If you are new to sewing quilt bindings, it may take a bit of practice to achieve the perfect finish, so don’t be discouraged.

Binding your quilt can seem like a daunting task, but with some careful preparation and a bit of patience, it can be easily mastered. Remember to choose the appropriate type of binding for your project and follow the steps carefully to achieve a neat and professional-looking finish. With these tips in mind, you are now ready to put on binding on any quilt project with confidence. Happy quilting!

Understanding the Basics of Binding on a Quilt

Quilting is a popular and time-honored pastime, and for many quilters, the finishing touch to a beautiful quilt is adding binding. Binding serves both functional and decorative purposes, keeping the edges of the quilt intact while also providing a finished look. However, many people may find binding to be a daunting task. If you’re wondering how to put on binding on a quilt, look no further. In this guide, we will break down the process into easy-to-follow steps so you can confidently add binding to your quilts.

Gathering Materials for Binding

Before you begin adding binding to your quilt, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. You will need fabric for your binding strips, coordinating thread, scissors or rotary cutter, pins or clips, an iron and ironing board, and a sewing machine. The type of fabric you use for your binding is up to personal preference but keep in mind that it should match or complement the colors and design of your quilt.

Preparing Your Quilt and Binding Strips

Before attaching the binding strips onto your quilt, make sure your quilt top is completely finished with quilting and any embellishments such as appliques or embroidery. Also, ensure that all edges are trimmed neatly. To prepare your binding strips, cut them into lengths that match the perimeter of your quilt plus several extra inches to allow for mitered corners and overlap when joining ends.

Attaching the Binding Strips onto Your Quilt

1. Lay out one of your prepared binding strips on top of one edge of your quilt with right sides facing each other.
2. Starting about 1/4 inch from one corner of the strip (leaving a tail), pin or clip along the edge.
3. Sew the strip onto the quilt with a 1/4 inch seam allowance, taking care to backstitch at the beginning and end.
4. When you reach 1/4 inch from the next corner, stop sewing and leave your needle down in the fabric.
5. Lift your presser foot and turn your quilt to line up the next edge of your quilt with the unfinished edge of your binding strip.
6. Fold the binding strip over so its top edge is lined up with the top edge of your quilt.
7. Hold in place and continue sewing from where you left off, repeating these steps for all corners.

Burrito Method for Creating Mitered Corners

The burrito method is a popular way to create perfectly mitered corners on quilts. Follow these steps to learn how:

1. Starting at one corner, insert one end of your binding tail into the other open end of your binding, right sides together.
2. Pin in place and sew a 1/4 inch seam along this short edge.
3. Next, gently pull out the stitched edges of this corner so it’s open like a hot dog bun.
4. Fold your quilt at a 45-degree angle towards you so that it forms an L shape at this corner.
5. Fold it in half again towards you so that it now looks like a burrito (with two layers on one side and one layer on the other).
6. Line up both raw edges along this second edge you’re about to sew (stitched binding should be on top) and sew using a 1/4-inch seam allowance across this second edge.

Finishing Your Binding

Once all four sides are attached using either straight or mitered corners, turn over your quilt and wrap your finished binding strip around to encase all raw edges completely. To finish off, hand-stitch the binding in place along the back side of your quilt or for a quicker finish, use a blind hem stitch on your sewing machine. Finally, give your quilt a good press with an iron and admire your perfectly bound masterpiece.

Troubleshooting Common Binding Issues

Binding can sometimes be tricky, but don’t get discouraged. If you’re having trouble with puckering or uneven edges, try using more pins or clips to hold the binding in place before sewing. If you’re struggling with joining the binding ends seamlessly, try using a 45-degree angle to cut both ends and sew them together at that angle for a smooth finish.

Adding binding to a quilt may seem like a daunting task, but with some practice and patience, it can become second nature. Remember to gather all necessary materials beforehand and take your time preparing and attaching the binding strips onto your quilt. Don’t be afraid to try different methods for creating crisp corners until you find one that works best for you. With this guide in hand, you’re ready to confidently add beautiful binding to all your quilts!

Q: What is a quilt binding?
A: A quilt binding is a strip of fabric that is sewn around the edges of a quilt to create a finished edge and hold all the layers together.

Q: What materials do I need to put on binding on a quilt?
A: You will need your quilt, fabric for the binding, scissors, pins, sewing machine or needle and thread, and an iron.

Q: How much fabric do I need for binding?
A: The amount of fabric you need for binding depends on the size of your quilt. As a general rule, you will need 2-3 times the length of your quilt plus an additional 10 inches for corners and joining ends.

Q: Do I have to make my own binding or can I buy it pre-made?
A: You can buy pre-made bias tape or straight grain binding at most fabric stores. However, making your own allows for more customization and control over the fabric used.

Q: What is the best way to attach binding to my quilt?
A: There are several methods for attaching binding to your quilt, including machine binding and hand stitching. Choose whichever method is most comfortable and efficient for you.

Q: How do I prepare the raw edges of my quilt before attaching the binding?
A: Before attaching the binding, trim any excess batting or backing from around the edges of your quilt. Also make sure all threads are trimmed and there are no loose threads or pieces of fabric poking out.

In conclusion, learning how to put on binding on a quilt is an essential skill for any quilter. The binding not only adds a beautiful finishing touch to the quilt but also ensures that the edges are secure and durable. Throughout this guide, we have discussed the step-by-step process of attaching binding to a quilt, from calculating the length of the binding strips to hand stitching the corners. We have also explored various techniques and tips for achieving a professional-looking finish.

One important thing to remember when putting on binding is to take your time and stay patient. It may seem like a tedious task, but with practice, it will become second nature and you will be able to create stunning quilts with perfectly attached bindings. Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different binding widths or colors to add visual interest to your quilts.

It is also crucial to use high-quality materials when working with bindings. This includes using sturdy fabric for the binding strips and durable thread for stitching. Taking these small precautions can make a significant difference in the longevity of your quilt’s binding.

Furthermore, always consider the overall design of your quilt when choosing the type of binding you want to use. Whether you opt for a classic double-fold or a more intricate bias-cut binding, make sure it complements your

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.