I generally pillowcase my quilts but some quilts just beg for a binding, especially if they are more traditional in nature. Here is my prefered way of attaching a traditional type of binding as it requires no hand stitching.
I used a 1-1/2 red binding and a 1-1/4 inch blue binding that I then joined together. This will give me a small flange of red (1/8 inch) when done. An easy way to remember what will be the flange is the larger fabric will be the smallest showing on the front.
I first overlap the strips and verify by folding open that the stitching is in the correct direction. Long tail to the back and front, right sides together and stitch across the angle. I then chain piece the other strips and use the first set to verify they all are in the correct orientation.
I then pink the seams and trim the ears off the strips. I use a chopstick to make opening the seams easier. I finger press or use another tool to press open the seams to reduce bulk when joining the strips together. Be aware that you do not want two of the joining seams to match up when joining the two sets together. There will be a lump if you do and it will show on the binding.
I have found it handy to tape down a see-thru plastic ruler to keep my stitching accurate. This will keep the finished binding from having wavy areas when it is flipped to the front for the finishing step. The ruler can be flipped out of the way if needed, then flipped back to the same spacing/position to complete the process.
I first learned this method of flange binding in a class I took at Road to California from Ricky Tims. This is a great way to stitch on a binding that requires NO handwork. Speedy and effective at adding just a sparkle of color along the edge.
What is your favorite way to bind a quilt?
I used a 1-1/2 red binding and a 1-1/4 inch blue binding that I then joined together. This will give me a small flange of red (1/8 inch) when done. An easy way to remember what will be the flange is the larger fabric will be the smallest showing on the front.
I first overlap the strips and verify by folding open that the stitching is in the correct direction. Long tail to the back and front, right sides together and stitch across the angle. I then chain piece the other strips and use the first set to verify they all are in the correct orientation.
I then pink the seams and trim the ears off the strips. I use a chopstick to make opening the seams easier. I finger press or use another tool to press open the seams to reduce bulk when joining the strips together. Be aware that you do not want two of the joining seams to match up when joining the two sets together. There will be a lump if you do and it will show on the binding.
I have found it handy to tape down a see-thru plastic ruler to keep my stitching accurate. This will keep the finished binding from having wavy areas when it is flipped to the front for the finishing step. The ruler can be flipped out of the way if needed, then flipped back to the same spacing/position to complete the process.
I first learned this method of flange binding in a class I took at Road to California from Ricky Tims. This is a great way to stitch on a binding that requires NO handwork. Speedy and effective at adding just a sparkle of color along the edge.
What is your favorite way to bind a quilt?
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