Finishing and binding a quilt is the final step in the quilting process, and it is just as important as the piecing and quilting. A well-finished quilt will be durable and will last for many years. Finishing your quilt can be a lot of work, but it’s definitely worth it. A well-finished quilt is a thing of beauty, and it will be a source of pride for years to come.
There are many different ways to finish and bind a quilt. The method you choose will depend on the look you are going for and the type of fabric you are using. Some of the most common finishing methods include: straight-line binding, bias binding, and flange binding. Straight-line binding is the simplest method, and it is a good choice for beginners. Bias binding is a bit more difficult, but it gives a more professional finish. Flange binding is a decorative binding that is often used on special occasion quilts.
Once you have chosen a finishing method, you will need to gather your supplies. You will need a binding fabric, a needle and thread, and possibly a sewing machine. If you are using a sewing machine, you will also need a walking foot. A walking foot helps to feed the quilt and the binding fabric through the machine evenly, which prevents puckering. Once you have gathered your supplies, you can begin finishing your quilt. The first step is to attach the binding to the quilt top. You can do this by hand or by machine. If you are attaching the binding by hand, you will need to use a blind stitch. A blind stitch is a stitch that is almost invisible from the right side of the fabric. Once the binding is attached to the quilt top, you will need to fold it over and stitch it down. You can do this by hand or by machine. If you are stitching the binding down by hand, you will need to use a small, even stitch. Once the binding is stitched down, your quilt is finished.
Gathering Materials for Binding the Quilt
Binding is the final step in completing a quilt, and it serves several important functions. Not only does it protect the raw edges of the quilt from fraying, but it also adds a decorative touch and provides a way to secure the layers of the quilt together. To bind a quilt, you will need the following materials:
Fabric for the binding
The fabric you choose for the binding should be durable and colorfast. It is also important to consider the weight of the fabric. For a lightweight quilt, you will want to use a lightweight fabric, such as cotton or cotton blend. For a heavier quilt, you can use a heavier fabric, such as denim or canvas. The amount of fabric you will need will depend on the size of your quilt. As a general rule, you will need about 1 yard of fabric for every 10 inches of binding. For example, if your quilt is 50 inches wide and 60 inches long, you will need about 6 yards of fabric for the binding.
Binding strips
Binding strips are the strips of fabric that you will use to bind the edges of the quilt. You can purchase pre-cut binding strips, or you can cut your own. If you are cutting your own binding strips, you will need to cut them 2 1/2 inches wide. The length of the binding strips will depend on the size of your quilt. As a general rule, you will need about 12 binding strips for every 10 inches of binding. For example, if your quilt is 50 inches wide and 60 inches long, you will need about 72 binding strips.
Fabric glue or spray adhesive
Fabric glue or spray adhesive is used to hold the binding strips in place. You can use either type of adhesive, but spray adhesive is generally easier to use. If you are using fabric glue, apply a thin layer of glue to the wrong side of the binding strips. If you are using spray adhesive, spray a thin layer of adhesive onto the wrong side of the binding strips.
Tacking thread
Tacking thread is used to tack the binding strips in place. You can use any type of thread, but a heavy-duty thread is recommended. Cut the thread into 18-inch lengths.
In addition to the materials listed above, you will also need a sewing machine, a needle, and a thimble.
Other Materials You May Need:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Quilt batting | Insulates and adds warmth to the quilt |
| Backing fabric | Covers the back of the quilt and holds the layers together |
| Quilting thread | Holds the layers of the quilt together |
| Quilting ruler | Helps you measure and mark the quilt |
| Quilting foot | Attaches to your sewing machine and helps you quilt the quilt |
Preparing the Binding Strips
Measuring and Cutting the Binding Strips
To determine the width of your binding strips, add 3 inches to the desired width that will show on your quilt. For example, if you want your binding to show 1.5 inches, cut the strips 4.5 inches wide. The length of the strips will vary depending on the size of your quilt. To calculate the total length, measure the perimeter of your quilt and add 10% for overlap and shrinkage.
Typically, binding strips are cut on the bias, which means they are cut at a 45-degree angle to the grain of the fabric. This helps to create a more durable and less bulky binding. To cut strips on the bias, fold the fabric in half diagonally and cut along the folded edge. Once the strips are cut, trim off any selvage edges and press them flat.
Piecing the Binding Strips
If your binding strips are shorter than the perimeter of your quilt, you will need to piece them together. To do this, sew the strips together with a quarter-inch seam allowance. Press the seams open and trim any excess thread. Continue piecing the strips together until you have a continuous length that is long enough to bind your quilt.
Joining the Binding Strip Ends
To join the ends of your binding strip, overlap them by about 4 inches. Press the overlapping edges of the strips flat, then fold one of the edges over the other and press again. Sew a quarter-inch seam along the folded edge to secure it.
Attaching the Binding Strips to the Quilt
With the quilt top and backing sandwiched together and machine quilted, it’s time to attach the binding strips and complete your project.
Materials:
- Binding strips (cut 2 1/2″ wide)
- Hand-sewing needle
- Thread
1. Sew Binding Strips to the Quilt
Fold a binding strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press. Open the strip back up and fold each raw edge to the center crease. Press again.
Starting at the center of one side of the quilt and on the back side, align the folded binding strip with the raw edge of the quilt and secure with a few hand stitches. Continue stitching around the entire perimeter of the quilt, using small, even stitches.
2. Miter the Corners
When you reach the first corner, miter the binding strip to create a clean and secure corner.
To miter a corner:
- Fold the binding strip at a 45-degree angle to the quilt edge.
- Trim the excess strip at the fold.
- Fold the trimmed strip over and align it with the next side of the quilt.
- Continue stitching around the corner and secure with a few extra stitches.
3. Finish the Binding
Once you’ve sewn the binding strip around the entire quilt, turn it to the front and fold the raw edges of the binding to the back. Stitch the binding down to the quilt by hand or machine.
Tips for Hand-Stitching Binding:
| Stitch | Description | Diagram |
|---|---|---|
| Slip Stitch | An invisible stitch that sews the binding to the back of the quilt. | Slip Stitch Diagram |
| Blind Stitch | A small stitch that catches only a few threads of the binding and quilt back. | Blind Stitch Diagram |
Mitering the Corners for a Flawless Finish
Essential Tools for Mitering Corners
To achieve crisp, mitered corners on your quilt, you’ll need the following tools:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Accurate rotary cutter | Precisely cutting fabric |
| Specialized mitering tool | Guides cuts for perfect corners |
| Clear ruler | Measuring and guiding the cuts |
| Sewing machine with a 1/4″ foot | Accurately sewing the corners |
Step-by-Step Guide to Mitering Corners
**Step 1: Prepare the Binding Strips**
Cut the binding strips twice the desired finished width and join them end-to-end. Press the seam open and fold the binding in half lengthwise.
Step 2: Mark the Corner
Place the mitering tool at the top corner of the quilt and mark the intersection point of the binding. Transfer this mark to the top corner of the binding strip.
Step 3: Cut the Miter
Align the mitering tool with the mark on the binding and cut through the fabric, starting from the outside corner and ending at the marked intersection. Repeat for the other side of the corner.
Step 4: Unfold and Press
Unfold the binding and press the mitered corner flat. The edges should align perfectly.
Step 5: Sew the Miter
Align the binding over the corner of the quilt and sew a 1/4" seam, pivoting at the point of the miter. Trim any excess binding.
Hand-Sewing the Binding for a Secure Hold
Step 1: Fold and Press the Binding Strip
Take one of the binding strips and fold it in half lengthwise, with the wrong sides together, pressing along the crease. Unfold the strip and fold each of the raw edges to the center crease, pressing again. This will create a strip with a finished edge on both sides.
Step 2: Pin the Binding to the Quilt
Place the folded binding strip around the edge of the quilt, with the raw edge of the binding aligned with the raw edge of the quilt. Pin the binding in place all around the quilt, making sure that the mitered corners are aligned.
Step 3: Sew the Binding to the Quilt
Using a needle and thread in a color that matches the binding, hand-sew the binding to the quilt. Begin at one of the corners and sew around the quilt, using small, even stitches. Secure the thread at the end.
Step 4: Fold and Stitch the Binding Edge
Fold the excess binding over the raw edge of the quilt and stitch it in place. This will create a finished edge on the binding.
Step 5: Mitering the Corners: A Detailed Guide
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Trim Excess Binding | Trim the excess binding at the corners, leaving a small triangle of fabric. |
| 2. Fold and Pin Triangle | Fold the triangle of fabric over the raw edge of the binding and pin it in place. |
| 3. Sew Corner | Hand-sew the folded triangle to the binding, using small, even stitches. |
| 4. Fold Binding Over Corner | Fold the binding over the stitched corner and press it in place. |
| 5. Align Binding | Align the binding around the corner and sew it in place, ensuring a neat and secure finish. |
Machine-Sewing the Binding for Efficiency
Machine-sewing the binding offers a quicker and more precise method compared to hand-sewing. Here are the detailed steps to follow:
1. Prepare the Binding
Create your binding strips as usual and sew them together end-to-end to form a continuous length.
2. Fold and Pin the Binding
Fold the binding strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press. Align the raw edges of the binding with the raw edges of the quilt top. Fold under the excess binding at the corners and pin in place.
3. Sew the Binding
Using a sewing machine, sew around the quilt, stitching close to the inner edge of the binding. Maintain a consistent seam allowance and use a matching thread color.
4. Trim the Corners
Carefully trim the excess binding fabric at the corners, leaving about 1/4 inch beyond the stitched seam.
5. Miter the Corners
Fold the binding strips at a 45-degree angle at each corner to create a mitered corner. Align the edges and sew across the corner to secure.
6. Flip, Press, and Topstitch the Binding
Flip the binding to the back of the quilt, covering the raw edges. Press the binding flat around the entire quilt. Top-stitch along the outer edge of the binding, approximately 1/8 inch from the edge. This step adds strength and a finished look to the binding.
Finishing the Binding with Hand Stitching
Step 1: Prepare the Needle and Thread
Select a sharp needle (size 10-12 works well) and thread it with a strong thread that matches the binding fabric. Be sure to double or triple the thread for durability.
Step 2: Start Stitching
Begin stitching at a corner of the quilt, where the binding overlaps. Insert the needle from the front, through all layers of the quilt and binding. Bring the needle back through to the front, about ¼ inch from the first stitch.
Step 3: Continue Stitching
Continue stitching around the quilt, keeping the stitches even and approximately ¼ inch apart. Ensure that the stitches penetrate all layers of the quilt and binding, but avoid pulling the fabric too tightly.
Step 4: Tuck the Binding
As you stitch, tuck the excess binding fabric inside the quilt. Use your fingers or a small tool (such as a thimble) to gently push the fabric into place, creating a neat and secure edge.
Step 5: Mitered Corners
At the corners, make mitered folds in the binding to ensure a clean finish. Fold the binding at a 45-degree angle, as shown in the diagram below.
| Diagram | Description |
|---|---|
 |
Fold the binding at a 45-degree angle and stitch into place. |
Step 6: Secure the Binding
When you reach the starting point of the stitching, overlap the binding slightly and stitch through all layers. Tie off the thread securely with a few knots.
Step 7: Embellishments and Personalization
To add a decorative touch to your hand-stitched binding, consider embellishing it with embroidery, ribbons, or other embellishments. You can also personalize it by adding your signature or a special message.
Attaching a Quilt Hanging Sleeve for Display
Choosing a Sleeve Fabric, Material, and Size
Select a fabric that complements your quilt and is sturdy enough to support its weight. Consider materials like cotton duck, heavy-duty twill, or linen. For the sleeve width, allow 4-6 inches wider than the finished quilt width. For the sleeve length, measure the desired drop length for display (typically 12-18 inches) and add 6-8 inches for attaching to the back of the quilt.
Cutting the Sleeve Fabric
Cut a strip of fabric according to your desired dimensions. Fold the raw edges of the long sides inward by 1/2 inch and press to create a hem. Fold the raw edges of the short sides inward by 3 inches and press to create the top and bottom hems.
Attaching the Sleeve to the Quilt
Center the sleeve vertically on the back of the quilt, 2-3 inches from the top edge. Pin the sleeve in place, aligning the top hem with the quilt top.
Quilting the Sleeve
Quilt along the edges of the sleeve to secure it to the quilt. Use a straight stitch or a more decorative stitch pattern. If desired, you can also quilt diagonal lines across the sleeve for added stability.
Creating the Pole Channel
Fold the top hem of the sleeve downward and press to create a 1-inch pole channel. Topstitch the channel, leaving a small opening at one end for inserting a dowel rod.
Installing the Dowel Rod
Cut a dowel rod to the desired length (slightly shorter than the width of your quilt). Insert the dowel rod into the pole channel, starting at the opening you left. Secure the rod by sewing the opening closed.
Hanging the Quilt
Hang your quilt on a wall or ceiling hook by sliding the dowel rod onto the hook. You can adjust the drop length by sliding the dowel rod up or down the channel.
Additional Tips
You can add decorative tassels or embellishments to the ends of the hanging sleeve for a more finished look.
Washing and Drying the Finished Quilt
Once your quilt is finished, it’s time to wash and dry it. This will help to set the colors and make the quilt softer. Here are the steps on how to wash and dry your finished quilt:
1. Choose a gentle cycle
When washing your quilt, be sure to choose a gentle cycle. This will help to prevent the quilt from getting damaged.
2. Use cold water
Cold water is best for washing quilts. Hot water can cause the colors to bleed and the fabric to shrink.
3. Add mild detergent
Use a mild detergent when washing your quilt. Harsh detergents can damage the fabric.
4. Do not use bleach
Bleach should never be used on quilts. It can damage the fabric and cause the colors to fade.
5. Rinse thoroughly
Be sure to rinse your quilt thoroughly after washing. Any detergent residue can damage the fabric.
6. Dry on low heat
When drying your quilt, be sure to use a low heat setting. High heat can damage the fabric.
7. Remove from dryer promptly
Once your quilt is dry, remove it from the dryer promptly. Leaving it in the dryer for too long can cause the fabric to wrinkle.
8. Fluff and fold
Once your quilt is dry, fluff it up and fold it. This will help to keep it looking its best.
9. Washing Instructions for Different Types of Fabrics
Different types of fabrics require different care when washing and drying quilts. Here is a table with specific instructions for different types of fabrics:
| Fabric Type | Washing Instructions | Drying Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Machine wash on gentle cycle, cold water, mild detergent | Tumble dry on low heat |
| Flannel | Machine wash on gentle cycle, cold water, mild detergent | Tumble dry on low heat or air dry |
| Minky | Machine wash on gentle cycle, cold water, mild detergent | Tumble dry on low heat or air dry |
| Silk | Hand wash in cold water, mild detergent | Lay flat to dry |
| Wool | Hand wash in cold water, mild detergent | Lay flat to dry |
Tips for Binding Quilts of All Sizes and Shapes
Quilting is a beloved form of art and craft, and completing a quilt with a beautiful binding can enhance its aesthetic appeal and durability. Here are some tips to help you achieve a professional-looking finish on quilts of all sizes and shapes.
Choosing the Right Binding
The width of the binding should be proportional to the size of the quilt. For smaller quilts, a 1 1/2″ – 2″ wide binding is recommended, while larger quilts can handle a wider binding of 2 1/2″ – 3″.
Mitering Corners
Mitering the corners ensures that the binding lies flat and creates a crisp, clean edge. To miter a corner, fold the binding in half and mark a 45-degree angle on the fold line. Sew the binding to the quilt along the 45-degree mark, then fold the excess binding over the corner and stitch it down.
Securing the Binding
There are several methods to secure the binding. Hand-stitching is a traditional and elegant option that allows for intricate detailing. Machine-stitching is faster and more efficient, but may not provide the same level of embellishment.
Finishing Touches
Once the binding is secured, there are a few optional steps to enhance its appearance. You can press the binding with an iron to flatten it and remove any wrinkles. Alternatively, you can add decorative embellishments such as piping or trim to add a touch of personalization.
Tips for Binding Quilts of All Sizes and Shapes
Small Quilts
* Use a narrow binding (1 1/2″ – 2″) to avoid overwhelming the quilt.
* Choose a simple binding stitch to highlight the quilt’s design.
* Consider adding decorative elements, such as buttons or beads, to enhance the overall look.
Large Quilts
* Use a wider binding (2 1/2″ – 3″) to provide a sturdy and supportive edge.
* Choose a durable binding fabric that can withstand wear and tear.
* Divide the quilt into smaller sections to make the binding process more manageable.
Odd-Shaped Quilts
* Use a flexible binding fabric, such as bias tape, to accommodate curves and angles.
* Miter the corners carefully to ensure a smooth transition between sides.
* Consider using a contrasting binding color to create a bold and unique statement.
| Size | Binding Width |
|---|---|
| Small (e.g., wall hanging) | 1 1/2″ – 2″ |
| Medium (e.g., lap quilt) | 2″ – 2 1/2″ |
| Large (e.g., bed quilt) | 2 1/2″ – 3″ |
How to Finish and Bind a Quilt
Adding the finishing touches to your handmade quilt is an essential step to give it a polished and professional look. Finishing and binding not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also protect the edges of the quilt from fraying and wear. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to finish and bind a quilt:
Materials you’ll need
- Your completed quilt top
- Backing fabric
- Batting
- Binding fabric
- Bias tape (optional)
- Matching thread
- Fabric glue (optional)
- Iron and ironing board
- Sewing machine
- Quilting pins
Step 1: Prepare the layers
- Lay out the backing fabric on a flat surface, right side down.
- Place the batting on top of the backing fabric.
- Smooth out the quilt top and center it over the batting, right side up.
Step 2: Layer and quilt the sandwich
- Pin the layers together through all layers.
- Quilt the layers together using your preferred quilting technique (hand, machine, or a longarm quilting machine).
Step 3: Trim the quilt
- Once the quilt is complete, square up the edges and trim any excess fabric around the perimeter.
Step 4: Create the binding
- Cut strips of binding fabric that are twice the desired width of the finished binding plus 1/2 inch.
- Fold the strips in half lengthwise and press.
- Sew the strips together end-to-end to create one long strip.
Step 5: Attach the binding
- Apply a small amount of fabric glue along the raw edge of the quilt.
- Fold the binding strip over the raw edge and press.
- Secure the binding with quilting pins every few inches.
- Sew the binding in place using a blind stitch or your preferred method.
Finishing touches
Once the binding is attached, you can add optional finishing touches to enhance the presentation of the quilt:
- Trim any excess binding fabric from the corners.
- Miter the corners for a professional finish.
- Add decorative stitching around the edge of the binding.
- Label the quilt with the date, name, or a special message.
People Also Ask About How to Finish and Bind a Quilt
How do I choose the right binding fabric?
Select a binding fabric that complements the colors and patterns in the quilt top. Consider the texture and weight of the fabric to ensure it blends seamlessly with the overall design.
Can I use bias tape for binding?
Yes, you can use bias tape for binding. Bias tape adds a decorative touch and can help to reduce bulk at the corners.
How do I miter the corners of the quilt when binding?
To miter the corners, fold the binding fabric into triangles at each corner and trim the excess fabric. Fold the binding over the raw edge of the quilt and sew in place, taking care to align the triangles for a neat finish.
