Mastering the Art of Sewing: A Step-by-Step Guide to Flange Binding

Sewing is a skill that has been passed down through generations and continues to be an important part of our lives. From creating our own clothes to personalizing home decor, there are endless possibilities with a needle and thread. One technique that every sewer should know is how to sew a flange binding. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced seamstress, adding a flange binding can give your project a professional and polished look. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of sewing a flange binding, so you can elevate your sewing projects to the next level.

What is a Flange Binding?

A flange binding is a decorative border that is commonly used to finish the edges of quilts, tablecloths, and other sewing projects. It is often used in place of traditional binding for a more unique and eye-catching look. The name “flange” comes from the fact that the binding creates a small, raised area around the edge of the fabric.

The flange binding consists of two layers of fabric – one for the main body and one for the flange. This makes it thicker and provides an added dimension to your project. The flange can be made using contrasting or coordinating fabric to add interest and create a pop of color.

Materials needed for sewing a flange binding

To sew a flange binding, you will need:
– Fabric for your main body
– Fabric for your flange (this can be regular quilting cotton or any other material you desire)
– Rotary cutter or fabric scissors
– Ruler or measuring tape
– Sewing machine with a walking foot
– Pins or wonder clips
– Coordinating thread
– Iron and ironing board

When choosing your main body fabric, keep in mind that you will need to have enough yardage to create both your top and backing layers, as well as extra for trimming and seam allowance. For the flange, choose a fabric that complements your main body fabric well.

Preparing your fabrics

Before you begin sewing your flange binding, it’s important to prepare your fabrics properly. Start by washing and ironing both fabrics to ensure they are free of any residue or wrinkles.

Next, cut your main body fabric according to the desired size of your project plus an additional 1 inch on all sides for seam allowance. Then cut your flange fabric into strips that are 1 ½ inch wide and the same length as your main body fabric. You can make the flange strips longer if desired, as they will be trimmed down later.

Sewing the flange binding

To start sewing your flange binding, place your main body fabric face down on a flat surface. Then take one flange strip and line it up with one edge of the main body fabric, right sides together. It’s important to use a walking foot for this step to ensure that both layers are fed through the machine evenly.

Using a ¼ inch seam allowance, start sewing along the edge of the two fabrics. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end to secure your stitches. Repeat this step on the opposite side of the main body fabric with another flange strip.

Next, trim any excess flange fabric from both edges, leaving about ¼ inch of overhang. Then fold the flange over towards the back of the main body fabric and press in place with an iron. This will create a neat and tidy mitered corner.

Attaching the flange binding

Once your flange is prepped, it’s time to attach it to your project! Lay your project face down on a flat surface and place your prepared flanged edges along all four sides of your project, making sure that they are evenly overlapped by about ¼ inch.

Pin or clip everything in place before sewing. Using a ¼ inch seam allowance again, sew along all four sides of your project, being careful not to catch any other layers in your stitches. Once finished, press the binding away from your project and towards the backing layer.

Finishing touches

To complete your flange binding, there are just a few final steps to take. First, trim off any excess fabric around all four edges using a rotary cutter or fabric scissors. Then, using a hand sewing needle and thread, hand-sew the binding down to the back of your project using an invisible stitch.

Finally, give your project a final press with an iron to ensure everything is neat and flat. And there you have it – a beautiful and unique flange binding to finish off your sewing project!

Tips for sewing a perfect flange binding

– Take your time and be precise with your measurements, cutting, and sewing.
– Use a walking foot when attaching the flange to ensure even feed through the machine.
– Press all fabrics before beginning to ensure a clean finish.
– Trim excess fabric along the edges before attaching the flange for a neater look.
– Hand-sew the binding down to the back for an invisible finish.
– Experiment with different fabric combinations to create unique and eye-catching flange bindings.

In conclusion, learning how to sew a flange binding can add another interesting aspect to your quilting or sewing projects. With just a few simple steps and some basic sewing skills, you can achieve a professional and polished look for any of your handmade items. So why not give it a try on your next project? It’s sure to impress!

Understanding Flange Binding

Flange binding is a decorative and functional edge finishing technique used in sewing. It involves sandwiching a layer of fabric between two layers of binding, creating a defined border or edge. This technique is commonly used on quilts, garments, and home decor items such as throw pillows and table runners.

There are various ways to create flange binding, but the most common one is by using a long strip of fabric folded in half lengthwise. The folded edge is then inserted between the two layers of fabric and secured with stitches. This creates a beautiful flanged border that adds a professional touch to any project.

Choosing the Right Fabric for Flange Binding

The first step in creating flange binding is choosing the right fabric for your project. Since flange binding requires folding and stitching, it is essential to use lightweight fabrics that can withstand the extra layer in between without becoming too bulky.

Cotton or cotton blend fabrics are great choices for flange binding, as they are easy to fold and manipulate. You can also use lightweight linen or rayon fabrics, depending on the desired look of your project.

It’s best to avoid heavyweight fabrics such as denim or wool as they can be difficult to work with when folded multiple times. Also, keep in mind that patterned or printed fabrics may not show off the flange effect as well as plain fabrics.

Cutting and Preparing Fabric for Flange Binding

Now that you have chosen your fabric, it’s time to cut it into strips for your flange binding. The width of the strips will depend on how wide you want your finished flanged border to be. A general rule of thumb is to cut them at least twice the desired finished width plus an additional quarter inch for seam allowance.

For example, if you want a one-inch wide finished flange border, you would cut your strips at least two and a quarter inches wide. It’s always best to cut a few extra strips in case of any mistakes or miscalculations.

Once your strips are cut, fold them in half lengthwise and press them with an iron. This will create the center crease that will be your stitching guide when attaching the flange binding to your project.

Attaching Flange Binding to Your Project

Now comes the exciting part – attaching the flange binding to your project! Start by sandwiching the raw edge of your project between the folded strip of flange binding, ensuring that the creased center line is aligned with the raw edge of your project.

Secure the flange binding in place by pinning it or using clips. Then, using a straight stitch on your sewing machine, stitch along the inner fold line of the flange binding using a ⅛ inch seam allowance. You can use a contrasting thread color for added visual interest or match it to your fabric for a more subtle effect.

Once you have stitched all around, press the flanged edge away from your project and attach bias tape or regular binding to finish off your edges. Your flange binding is now complete, and you can admire its beautiful effect on your project.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Flange Binding

Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind while working with flange binding:

– Pressing is key to successful flange binding. Always press as you go to create crisp edges.
– Experiment with different widths of flange binding to achieve different looks on your projects.
– Use glass-head pins or clips instead of regular pins when securing flange binding to avoid damaging delicate fabrics.
– Always start stitching from a corner or an inconspicuous spot so that any imperfections are not as noticeable.
– Take extra care when sewing curves or corners. It helps to use smaller strips of flange binding to reduce bulk and allow for smoother curves.
– If hand-sewing is your preferred method, use a blind stitch or ladder stitch to attach the flange binding for an invisible finish.

Conclusion

Flange binding is an elegant and versatile technique that adds a professional touch to any sewing project. With these tips and techniques, you can confidently create beautiful flanged edges on quilts, garments, and home decor items. So go ahead and add some flair to your next sewing project with flange binding!

1. What is a flange binding and when should I use it?
A flange binding is an embellished edge finish that creates a decorative sandwiched layer around your quilt or fabric. It can be used to add an extra pop of color or contrast to your project and is typically used on large quilts, wall hangings, or table runners.

2. What materials do I need to sew a flange binding?
To sew a flange binding, you will need your main fabric, backing fabric, batting, binding fabric strips cut on the bias, thread, scissors, pins, and a sewing machine.

3. How wide should I cut my binding strips for a flange binding?
The width of your binding strips will depend on the desired size of your flange. A rule of thumb is to cut your binding strips 1 inch wider than the desired finished size of your flange.

4. How do I attach the flange to my quilt or project?
To attach the flange, you will first baste it in place around the perimeter of your project. Then you will layer the backing fabric and batting on top before attaching it all together with your main fabric using a quarter-inch seam allowance.

5. Can I use any type of fabric for my flange binding?
Yes, you can use any type of lightweight fabric for your flange binding as long as it is cut on the bias for flexibility and ease of sewing.

6. How can I ensure that my corners are neat and sharp when sewing a flange binding?
To achieve neat and sharp corners with your flange binding, miter them by folding them back at a 45-degree angle before continuing to sew along the next side. This creates crisp corners without any bulkiness.

In conclusion, learning how to sew a flange binding is an important skill for any sewing enthusiast. It not only adds a professional touch to any project, but it also ensures durability and longevity of the finished product. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide, you can confidently incorporate flange bindings into a variety of sewing projects.

From choosing the right fabric and measuring accurately, to creating seamless corners and securing the binding in place, each step plays a crucial role in achieving a flawless flange binding. Practicing and perfecting this technique may take some time, but with patience and persistence, you will be able to master it and add it to your repertoire of sewing skills.

When it comes to choosing color combinations or patterns for your binding fabric, do not be afraid to experiment and get creative. The interplay between the main fabric and the binding can add a unique touch to your project. Additionally, investing in high-quality materials such as cotton fabrics and quilting thread will ensure that your flange binding not only looks good but also stands the test of time.

Finally, don’t forget to take breaks when working on longer projects to prevent fatigue and mistakes. Sewing should be an enjoyable activity, so make sure to take care of yourself while honing your skills

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.