Master the Art of Binding: A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Seamlessly Sew Strips Together

Are you looking to add a personal touch to your quilts or sewing projects? If so, then learning how to sew strips together for binding is a skill you won’t want to miss. Binding not only adds a polished and finished look to your creations, but it also provides durability and helps preserve the edges of your fabrics. In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step process of sewing strips together for binding, along with some useful tips and techniques. Whether you’re new to sewing or a seasoned pro looking to brush up on your skills, this guide has got you covered. So grab your sewing kit and let’s get started!

Binding is an essential step in almost all sewing projects, especially when it comes to quilting. It not only gives a neat and finished look to the edges but also strengthens and protects them from wear and tear. One method to bind your quilt is by sewing strips together. This technique allows you to create a binding of any desired length, making it suitable for projects of all sizes. In this guide, we will discuss in detail how to sew strips together for binding, giving your quilt that professional touch.

What are Binding Strips?

Binding strips are long, narrow fabric pieces that are used to encase the raw edges of a project. They act as a frame around your project, giving it a clean and polished look. These strips are typically cut on the bias (diagonally across the grain) as they provide more give and flexibility while being sewn onto curved edges.

Choosing Fabric for Binding Strips

When it comes to choosing fabric for binding strips, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the weight and texture of your fabric. Thicker or heavier fabrics might be difficult to work with and could add unnecessary bulk to your project’s edges. Lighter weight fabrics like cotton or linen work best for binding strips.

Secondly, take note of the color or print of your fabric. If you want your binding to blend in with your project’s design, choose a fabric that complements the colors or patterns used. On the other hand, if you want your binding to stand out as an accent piece, opt for a contrasting color or bold print.

Cutting Binding Strips

Now that you have chosen the perfect fabric for your binding strips let’s move on to cutting them. As mentioned earlier, cutting on the bias is preferred when making binding strips as they provide more stretch and give when it comes to sewing them onto curved edges.

To cut on the bias, fold your fabric into a triangle shape by bringing the selvedge edges (long edges) together. This will create a bias grain line along the bottom edge of your fabric. Using a ruler and rotary cutter, cut 2 ½ inch wide strips parallel to this bias line.

How Many Strips Do You Need?

The number of strips you need for your binding depends on the size of your project. A general rule of thumb is that you will need enough strips to cover all four sides of your project, plus an extra 10-20 inches for joining and overlapping the ends.

For example, let’s say you have a quilt that measures 60 inches by 60 inches. To calculate the length of binding needed, multiply the perimeter (60+60+60+60=240 inches) by two (480 inches) and add 10-20 inches for joining and overlapping. Therefore, you will need binding strips that are at least 490-500 inches long (depending on how much seam allowance you are leaving).

Joining Binding Strips Together

To create one long continuous strip for your binding, you will need to join multiple strips together. To do this, place two strips with right sides together at a 90-degree angle. Mark a diagonal line from corner to corner using a ruler and marking tool like chalk or fabric pen.

Next, sew along this marked line with a quarter-inch seam allowance. Trim off the excess fabric leaving a quarter-inch seam allowance on both sides of the stitching line. Press open the seam with an iron for a clean finish.

Repeat this process until all your strips are joined together to create one long continuous strip.

Preparing Your Binding Strips

Before sewing your binding onto your project’s edges, it is important to prepare your strips for easy and neat application. Begin by pressing your binding strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, with an iron. This will create a center fold that you can easily align with the raw edge of your project.

You can also press the raw edges of the binding strip towards the center fold, creating a crisp and clean edge. This step is optional but will give your binding a more professional finish.

Sewing Binding Strips onto a Quilt

To attach your binding strips onto your quilt, start with one side of your quilt and leave a tail of about 10-12 inches. Align the raw edges of the binding strip’s center fold with the raw edge of your project. You can use clips or pins to secure it in place.

Starting from the top or bottom corner, sew along the edge of your project using a quarter-inch seam allowance. When you get close to each corner, stop sewing a quarter-inch away from the edge and backstitch. Then pivot the fabric 45 degrees towards you and continue sewing along the next side.

When you reach the starting point, stop sewing a couple of inches before reaching it and backstitch again. Trim off any excess binding strip leaving enough to overlap with

The Importance of Properly Sewing Strips for Binding

When it comes to quilting, sewing strips together for binding is a crucial step in the process. Binding is what gives quilts that finished, polished look and protects the raw edges of the quilt. Not only is it important for aesthetics, but properly sewing strips together for binding also ensures durability and longevity of your quilt.

Choosing the Right Fabric

Before you start sewing your strips together, it’s important to choose the right fabric for binding. The fabric should be strong and durable to withstand wear and tear. It’s also important that it complements the colors and design of your quilt. Choosing a high-quality fabric will make all the difference in the end result.

One tip when selecting fabric for binding is to use a solid or tone-on-tone pattern instead of a busy print. This will allow the quilting stitches to stand out without detracting from the overall design.

Preparing Your Strips

Once you have your fabric selected, it’s time to prepare your strips for sewing. If you are using pre-cut fabric, make sure all your strips are cut to the same length and width. If you are cutting your own strips, use a rotary cutter and ruler to ensure clean and precise cuts.

It’s also important to prewash your fabric before cutting to prevent any shrinkage or bleeding of colors later on. After washing, iron out any wrinkles so that your strips lay flat.

If you are using multiple fabrics for your quilt, consider sorting them into bundles based on color or pattern. This will make it easier to keep track of which fabrics go together when sewing strips together.

Properly Sewing Strips Together

Now comes the actual process of sewing strips together for binding. First, take two strips and place them right sides together with the ends aligned. Pin in place if desired. Use a quarter-inch seam allowance and stitch along the edge.

Once sewn, press the seam open with an iron. This will help reduce bulk and make for a smoother finish.

Continue sewing strips together until you have the desired length for your quilt binding. If using different fabrics, alternate color and pattern to create a visually appealing effect.

After all strips are sewn together, trim any excess fabric from the ends and again press open the seams.

Joining the Beginning and End

To create one continuous strip of binding, you will need to join the beginning and end of your sewn strips. One easy way to do this is by creating a mitered seam.

Fold one end of the strip diagonally towards the middle of the strip, then fold it again in half so that it aligns with the raw edge. Do the same with the other end of your strip.

Place both folded edges on top of each other, matching them up perfectly. Sew along this new raw edge to create a mitered seam that joins both strips together seamlessly.

Trim any excess fabric and press open the mitered seam. Your binding is now ready to be attached to your quilt!

Attaching Binding to Quilt

Start by placing your quilt right side down and laying your binding on top around one edge. Leave a few inches hanging at the beginning as you don’t want to start at a corner.

Sew along the edge using a quarter-inch seam allowance until you reach a corner. Stop sewing about ¼ inch away from the corner, backstitch, and then remove from machine.

Fold up your binding at a 90-degree angle towards the next side of your quilt. Then fold it back down, creating a crease where it meets with your previous stitching line. This should form a neat mitered corner.

Continue sewing and repeating this process until you’ve reached the corner where you started. Leave a few inches of binding hanging when you get to the end and then trim off any excess.

Lastly, fold over the remaining binding and tuck it under the beginning edge, creating a clean finish. Sew over this section to secure it in place and your quilt is now beautifully bound!

Caring for Your Quilt Binding

Properly sewing strips together for binding also means taking care of your finished quilt. To keep your binding looking its best, avoid washing your quilt in hot water or putting it in the dryer. If possible, wash on a delicate cycle with cold water and lay flat to dry.

Over time, your quilt may experience some wear and tear. If you notice any loose threads or fraying on your binding, simply sew over them to reinforce it.

Sewing strips together for binding is an essential skill for any quilter. It not only adds a professional touch to your quilt but also ensures its durability and longevity. By following these tips and techniques, you can confidently complete this step in the quilting process with ease. Just remember to choose high-quality fabric, properly prepare and sew your strips together

Q: What is the purpose of sewing strips together for binding?
A: Sewing strips together for binding helps create a strong and durable edge for your project, as well as providing a clean and finished appearance.

Q: What materials do I need to sew strips together for binding?
A: You will need your project, fabric strips, scissors, sewing machine, thread, and pins.

Q: Can I use any type of fabric to sew strips together for binding?
A: Yes, you can use any type of fabric as long as it is cut into uniform strips and is suitable for your project.

Q: How do I sew my strips together for binding?
A: First, lay out your project and measure the length needed for the strips. Cut the fabric into equal-width strips. Next, place two strips right sides facing each other and sew along one of the long edges. Repeat until all the desired strips are pieced together.

Q: How do I join the end of a strip to another strip?
A: When joining two ends of a strip together, overlap them by about 1 inch and pin in place. Sew across at an angle from corner to corner to create a diagonal seam. Trim the excess fabric and press open.

Q: Are there any tips to ensure my strips are sewn together accurately?
A: It’s helpful to mark your seam allowance on both edges of each strip before sewing them together. This will ensure that your seams are even and straight when sewing multiple strips.

In conclusion, learning how to sew strips together for binding is a helpful skill for any sewist to have. It allows for a clean and professional-looking finish to any sewing project, particularly when creating quilts or other home decor items. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this guide, you can confidently sew strips together for binding with ease.

First and foremost, it is important to select high-quality fabric and thread to ensure a durable and visually appealing final product. Furthermore, properly preparing the fabric strips by cutting them accurately and aligning them correctly is crucial for achieving a polished result. Taking time to pin or baste the strips in place before sewing will also improve the overall accuracy and neatness of the finished binding.

The different types of stitches that can be used for sewing strips together, such as a straight stitch or zigzag stitch, offer versatility depending on personal preference and project needs. Additionally, incorporating decorative stitches or using contrasting thread can add a unique touch to the bound edge.

It is important to note that practice makes perfect when it comes to sewing strips together for binding. As with any new skill, it may take some trial and error before achieving a professional-looking finish. However, do not be discouraged as each attempt serves as an opportunity for improvement.

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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.