Master the Art of Machine Binding: A Step-by-Step Guide for Quilters

Quilting is a beloved hobby for many, but the final finishing touch – binding – can often be intimidating, especially when it comes to using a sewing machine. But fear not, as in this article we will guide you through the steps of how to sew binding on a quilt by machine. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just starting out, mastering this technique will not only save you time but also elevate the overall look and durability of your quilt. So let’s dive in and discover the expert tips and tricks to achieve perfect machine-sewn binding on your quilts!

What is sewing binding on a quilt by machine?

Sewing binding on a quilt by machine is the process of attaching a strip of fabric to the edges of a quilt using a sewing machine. This not only adds a decorative touch to the quilt but also strengthens and protects the edges from wear and tear.

Why use a machine for binding?

Using a machine for binding can save time and effort compared to hand sewing, especially when dealing with larger or multiple quilts. It also ensures consistent and neat stitching throughout the entire quilt’s border.

Materials needed for sewing binding on a quilt by machine

– Quilt that needs binding
– Binding fabric (preferably cut on bias)
– Sewing machine with adjustable needle position
– Walking foot attachment (optional)
– Sewing pins or clips
– Iron and ironing board
– Thread in desired color
– Scissors or rotary cutter
– Ruler or measuring tape
– Fabric marker or chalk

Preparing the quilt for binding

Before beginning to sew the binding, it is important to prepare the quilt properly. Make sure all loose threads on the edges of the quilt are trimmed. If your quilt has rounded corners, clip small notches into them to allow for easier folding when applying the binding.

Making continuous binding strips

If you are using pre-made binding, you can skip this step. However, for those making their own binding, follow these steps to create continuous strips:

1. Cut your fabric into strips according to your desired width. For example, if you want 2-inch-wide strips, cut your fabric 4 inches wide.
2. Lay two strips of fabric right sides together at a 90-degree angle.
3. Draw a diagonal line from one corner of each strip to its opposite corner.
4. Sew a straight stitch on the drawn line.
5. Trim excess fabric, leaving a 1/4 inch seam allowance.
6. Open the strip and press the seam open.
7. Continue adding strips in the same manner until you have enough for your entire quilt.

Applying the binding

1. Begin by finding the middle of one side of your quilt and mark it with a pin or fabric marker.
2. Starting at that point, align the raw edge of your binding strip with the raw edge of your quilt top and start sewing using a 1/4 inch seam allowance.
3. Continue sewing along each side, stopping 1/4 inch from each corner and backstitching to secure the stitches.
4. At each corner, fold the binding up towards you to create a mitered corner. Then, fold it back down over itself to create a straight line again, aligning it with the next raw edge to continue sewing.
5. When you reach where you started, leave approximately 10 inches of binding unstitched and backstitch to secure it.
6. Trim excess binding leaving a few extra inches on either side.
7. Fold in both ends of the binding at right angles and press to create a clean finish before sewing them together at a 45-degree angle.
8. Trim excess fabric, leaving a 1/4 inch seam allowance, then press the seam open.
9. Finish sewing along the remaining unstitched part of your binding.

Topstitching on machine

Once your binding is fully sewn onto your quilt top, it is time for topstitching on your machine.

1. Begin by unfolding one edge of your binding so that it covers all raw edges and tucks under slightly at the back.
2. Using matching thread or contrasting thread for decorative purposes, sew along the binding’s edge, making sure to catch both edges.
3. When you reach a corner, stop sewing 1/4 inch from the end and backstitch to secure the stitches.
4. Pivot your quilt so that you can continue sewing in the same direction along the next side.
5. Repeat until all sides are topstitched.
6. When you reach where you started, backstitch and remove your quilt from the machine.

Using a walking foot

A walking foot can be helpful when sewing binding on a quilt by machine as it helps to evenly feed your quilt through the machine and prevent puckering or shifting.

1. Attach your walking foot to your machine according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Begin sewing as usual, making sure all layers are aligned before starting.
3. Use pins or clips to secure the quilt layers together if needed while stitching.
4. Adjust stitch length if desired for decorative purposes.

Finishing touches

After topstitching, check for any loose threads or missed areas and fix them accordingly. Finally, give your quilt a final press with an iron to make sure all stitches are neat and flat.

Conclusion

Sewing binding on a quilt

Understanding the Basics of Binding on a Quilt

When it comes to finishing a quilt, binding is an essential step that gives it a professional and polished look. Binding refers to the fabric strip that is sewn around the edges of the quilt to enclose the raw edges of the quilt top, batting, and backing. There are various techniques for sewing binding on a quilt, but in this guide, we will focus on how to sew binding on a quilt by machine.

Gathering Your Materials and Tools

Before you dive into sewing binding on your quilt, you need to gather all the necessary materials and tools. These include:

– Pre-made double-fold bias binding or self-made bias tape
– Iron and ironing board
– Sewing machine with walking foot attachment
– Fabric scissors or rotary cutter
– Ruler
– Pins or wonder clips
– Safety pins or binding clips (optional)
– Matching thread

Ensure that your sewing machine is in good working condition, and you have enough space to lay out your quilt.

Preparing Your Quilt for Binding

Before attaching the binding to your quilt, make sure that it’s properly squared up and trimmed. This involves trimming off any loose threads or uneven edges. You can use a ruler or square ruler to ensure all sides are equal in length.

Next, press the edges of your quilt top and backing fabric ½ inch towards the wrong side to create a fold line. This step will make attaching the binding easier and give your quilt a neater finish.

Creating Bias Tape (optional)

If you choose to make your own bias tape instead of using pre-made binding, here’s how:

1. Cut fabric strips on the bias at 45-degree angles.
2. Join these strips together with diagonal seams until you achieve enough length for your quilt.
3. Fold the strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together.
4. Press and then stitch close to the folded edge.

Creating your own bias tape allows you to customize the width of your binding. However, it can be time-consuming, and pre-made binding is a great option if you’re short on time.

Attaching Binding to Your Quilt

With your quilt top prepared and bias tape or pre-made binding ready, it’s time to attach them together:

1. Start by laying your quilt flat on a large surface with the backing facing up.
2. Unfold one end of the binding and match it with one edge of your quilt, right sides together.
3. Leave 5 inches of excess binding at the start for joining later.
4. Start sewing about ¼ inch from the edge of your quilt using a ½ inch seam allowance.
5. Sew along one side, stopping at least ¼ inch before reaching each corner.
6. Fold the binding up towards you at a 45-degree angle, then back down towards the next side of your quilt.
7. Sew along this side and repeat this process for all four corners.

Note:

To ensure neat corners, miter them by folding the raw edges inwards before folding and attaching the binding to the next side.

8. Sew until you reach about 10 inches from where you started.
9. Stop sewing and cut off any excess binding, leaving an extra 5 inches for joining later.
10. Overlap both ends of your binding, unfold them, trim off the excess material, and pin them together.

Joining Binding Ends

Joining both ends of your bias tape or pre-made binding ensures a seamless finish without any visible seams:

1. Open up both ends of your bias tape or pre-made binding and lay them right sides together.
2. Fold one end back ½ inches and place the other end on top, matching the raw edges.
3. Mark a diagonal line from the folded edge to the pin at the exterior edge for both ends.
4. Pin both bias tape or binding ends together, with your marked lines lined up.
5. Sew along this line and trim off any excess binding, leaving a ¼-inch seam allowance.

Continue sewing your binding to the quilt until you reach where you started.

Finishing Your Binding

To complete your quilt’s binding, follow these last steps:

1. Leave a few inches of excess bias tape or pre-made binding before cutting it off from your quilt.
2. Fold this excess under and slip stitch it to the back of your quilt using matching thread.
3. Ensure that your stitches are invisible from the front and secure any loose folds properly.

If you prefer, you can topstitch or machine stitch all around your quilt’s binding instead of slip-stitching by hand.

Tips for a Professional Finish

– Make sure that all layers of your quilt are even while attaching the binding to avoid puckering or bunching up.
– Use a walking foot in your sewing machine for even feeding

Q: What is the purpose of binding on a quilt?
A: Binding is used to finish the raw edges of a quilt, creating a clean and professional-looking edge and preventing fraying.

Q: Can I sew binding on a quilt by machine?
A: Yes, sewing binding on a quilt by machine is faster and easier than hand stitching. However, hand stitching may provide a more polished look.

Q: What kind of sewing machine is best for sewing binding on a quilt?
A: A regular home sewing machine with a walking foot or dual feed foot is ideal for sewing binding on a quilt. This type of machine has the necessary features to handle the thickness of multiple layers of fabric.

Q: How do I attach the binding to my quilt using a machine?
A: Start by folding the raw edge of your binding over ½ inch and ironing it down. Then, line up the raw edges of the binding with the raw edges of your quilt, making sure it is centered and secure with pins. Use a straight stitch or zigzag stitch to sew along the folded edge of the binding, securing it in place.

Q: How do I sew mitered corners when attaching binding by machine?
A: After sewing along one side of your quilt, stop ¼ inch away from the corner and backstitch. Fold the adjacent side of your binding up at a 45 degree angle and then fold it down over itself so that it aligns with the next side to be stitched. Continue stitching along this new side until you reach the next corner.

Q: How do I join my ends when attaching binding by machine?
A: To join your ends seamlessly, leave at least 6 inches of unsewn binding at one end. Lay another piece of unstitched binding over this end, aligning the raw edges and overlapping them by ½ inch. Sew across the overlapped section, trim any excess, and then finish sewing the binding onto your quilt.

In conclusion, learning how to sew binding on a quilt by machine can be a valuable skill for any quilter. It allows for a more efficient and tidy finish while still maintaining the handmade charm of a quilt. Through the steps outlined above, it is clear that by following proper techniques and taking the time to practice, anyone can become proficient in sewing binding by machine.

Firstly, it is essential to choose the appropriate materials for both the quilt and the binding strip. This includes selecting a thread that matches the fabric and using high-quality binding strips to ensure durability. Additionally, properly preparing the quilt edges for binding is crucial in achieving a smooth finished look.

Next, understanding and using different stitching techniques such as topstitching or zigzag stitching can greatly improve the overall appearance of the binding. By following proper spacing and keeping stitches consistent, one can avoid common mistakes such as puckering or loose threads.

Moreover, implementing tips like starting and ending binding in inconspicuous areas and properly mitering corners can elevate the quality of your finished project. These small details may seem insignificant but can make a significant difference in creating professional-looking bindings.

Through continuous practice and patience, mastering this skill will not only result in beautiful bindings but also save time and effort compared to hand stitching.

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.