How to sew binding on a quilt by machine takes center stage here, this opening passage beckons readers into a world crafted with good knowledge, ensuring a reading experience that is both absorbing and distinctly original. As a quilt enthusiast, you know that binding is the crowning glory of any quilt, and machine sewing is the way to go for speed and precision. But have you ever struggled with binding your quilt like a pro? Do you find yourself getting frustrated with uneven stitches and wobbly binding?
Don’t worry, friend, you’re not alone! That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on how to sew binding on a quilt by machine. From prepping your quilt surface to finishing the binding edges, we’ll walk you through every step of the process. So, grab your sewing machine, your favorite binding fabric, and let’s get started!
Choosing the Right Binding Foot
When it comes to machine sewing binding on a quilt, choosing the right binding foot is crucial for achieving a professional-looking finish. A binding foot helps guide the binding material as you sew, ensuring a smooth and even join. With various types of binding feet available on the market, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. In this section, we’ll explore the different types of binding feet, their purposes, and functions, as well as provide tips for accurately measuring and cutting binding strips.
Different Types of Binding Feet
There are several types of binding feet available for machine sewing, each designed for specific tasks or binding materials. Some of the most common types include:
- Walking Foot Binding Foot: This foot is designed for thicker quilts or binding materials, allowing for smooth and even stitching as you sew.
- Quilting Walking Foot Binding Foot: This foot is a combination of a walking foot and a quilting foot, providing more control over the fabric as you sew.
- Edge Guide Binding Foot: This foot features a built-in edge guide, allowing you to sew along the edge of your binding accurately and efficiently.
- Blind Hem Binding Foot: This foot is designed for binding projects where you want a blind hem finish, such as hemming pants or skirts.
It’s essential to select a binding foot that suits your specific needs and sewing machine. Each foot has its unique features and benefits, and using the right one can make a significant difference in the quality of your finished project.
Rotary Cutting vs. Scissors for Binding Strips
When cutting binding strips, you have two main options: rotary cutting or using scissors. While both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, rotary cutting is generally preferred for several reasons.
- Accuracy: Rotary cutting allows for precise measurements and even cuts, reducing the risk of error and waste.
- Efficiency: Rotary cutting is generally faster than using scissors, especially when cutting long binding strips.
- Consistency: Rotary cutting helps maintain a consistent width and length of your binding strips, making it easier to assemble your quilt.
However, there may be situations where using scissors is more convenient or necessary. For example, when cutting binding strips for a small project or when working with thin or delicate fabrics, scissors may be a better option.
Tips for Accurately Measuring and Cutting Binding Strips
Measuring and cutting binding strips accurately is crucial for a professional-looking finish. Here are some tips to help you achieve accurate measurements and cuts:
- Use a rotary cutter and mat to ensure precise measurements and even cuts.
- Use a ruler or measuring tape to double-check your measurements before and after cutting.
- Cut binding strips with a 45-degree angle to reduce fraying and make it easier to sew.
- Use a binding clip or clamp to hold the binding strip in place while you sew, preventing it from shifting or bunching up.
By following these tips and selecting the right binding foot for your machine, you’ll be well on your way to creating beautiful and professional-looking bindings for your quilts. Remember to always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific binding foot and sewing machine for optimal results.
Binding Foot Functions and Benefits
Each binding foot has its unique functions and benefits, which can be summarized as follows:
| Binding Foot | Purpose | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Walking Foot Binding Foot | For thicker quilts or binding materials | Smooth stitching, even join, and minimal drag on the fabric |
| Quilting Walking Foot Binding Foot | Combination of walking foot and quilting foot | More control over the fabric, smooth stitching, and precise seams |
| Edge Guide Binding Foot | Accurate stitching along the edge of the binding | Easy alignment, even join, and reduced error |
| Blind Hem Binding Foot | Blind hem finish for pants, skirts, and other garments | Invisible hemline, smooth stitching, and precision seams |
By understanding the functions and benefits of each binding foot, you can choose the right one for your specific needs and create professional-looking bindings for your quilts.
Measuring and Cutting Binding Strips
Measuring binding accurately is essential to ensure your quilt binding lies flat and doesn’t pucker. To start, lay out your quilt on a flat surface and determine the total amount of binding you will need. Binding is usually cut 2 1/4 inches wide, allowing for a 1/4 inch seam allowance on either side.
Determining the Total Amount of Binding Needed
To calculate the total amount of binding needed, you need to calculate the perimeter of your quilt, also known as the outer dimensions. Measure the length and width of the quilt top, and then multiply the length by 2 and the width by 2. This will give you the total perimeter. For example, if your quilt top is 96 inches long and 72 inches wide, the perimeter would be (96 x 2) + (72 x 2) = 384 inches.
The Importance of 45-Degree Angles When Cutting Binding Strips
When cutting binding strips, it is crucial to use a 45-degree angle to ensure that the strips lie flat and have a smooth, seam-friendly edge. This angle allows the strips to fold neatly over the quilt’s edge, preventing ripples and uneven seams. Always cut your binding strips using a rotary cutter and a ruler or cutting mat to maintain accuracy and precision.
Binding Calculators vs Measuring Manually
Some quilters swear by binding calculators, which use complex formulas and precise measurements to determine binding amounts. However, these calculators often require multiple calculations and can be overwhelming for beginners. Measuring manually, on the other hand, allows for a more intuitive understanding of binding calculations and can be just as accurate.
- Using a binding calculator can save time and reduce errors.
- Measuring manually requires a better understanding of binding calculations and geometry.
- Binding calculators may not account for quilt patterns and irregularities, whereas manual measurements can accommodate these variations.
Measuring and Cutting Chart
| Quilt Size | Perimeter (inches) | Binding Amount (yards) |
|---|---|---|
| 60 x 40 inches | 240 | 1/4-1/2 yard |
| 80 x 60 inches | 360 | 3/4-1 yard |
| 100 x 80 inches | 480 | 1-2 yards |
For a smooth and even binding, make sure to add 5-10% to your binding amount to account for any shrinkage or irregularities during the sewing process.
Assembling the Binding: How To Sew Binding On A Quilt By Machine
Assembling the binding is a crucial step in machine sewing, where the binding strips are carefully aligned and sewn onto the quilt. With the right tools and techniques, you’ll be able to achieve professional-looking results.
To begin, make sure your machine is set up with the correct stitch length and presser foot. You may want to use a walking foot or Teflon foot to ensure smooth fabric movement.
Loading the Binding Foot
To load the binding foot, follow these steps:
- Place the binding foot onto the machine’s presser foot lifter.
- Secure the foot in place by lowering the presser foot lifter.
- Position the binding strip under the presser foot, aligning it with the edge of the quilt.
This step is essential in ensuring that the binding is accurately aligned and sewn onto the quilt.
The Role of the Walking Foot
The walking foot plays a crucial role in machine binding, as it prevents drag and allows for smooth fabric movement. This foot is particularly useful when working with thick or slippery fabrics.
The walking foot helps to maintain a consistent speed and movement, ensuring that the binding is evenly spaced and sewn onto the quilt.
When working with the walking foot, keep in mind that you may need to adjust the stitch length and tension to achieve the best results.
Sewing Corners and Cornstones
Sewing corners and cornstones requires a bit more attention to detail, but with practice, you’ll get the hang of it. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- When sewing corners, use a short stitch length and a slightly slower speed to maintain control.
- For cornstones, use a slightly longer stitch length and a faster speed to maintain evenness.
- When sewing close to the corner, use a sharp needle to prevent breakage.
With practice and patience, you’ll be able to achieve sharp, clean corners and even cornstones.
Step-by-Step Guide for Sewing on the Backing and Top
To sew the binding onto the backing and top of the quilt, follow these steps:
- Start by sewing the binding onto the backing, working from the bottom up.
- Use a walking foot or Teflon foot to ensure smooth fabric movement.
- When sewing close to the edge of the quilt, use a sharp needle to prevent breakage.
- Continue sewing the binding onto the top of the quilt, working from the bottom up.
By following these steps and using the right tools, you’ll be able to achieve a beautiful, professional-looking binding that enhances the overall appearance of your quilt.
Handling Fabric Thickness and Slippery Surfaces
When working with thick or slippery fabrics, you may need to adjust the stitch length and tension to maintain even fabric movement.
Use a walking foot or Teflon foot to help prevent drag and maintain smooth fabric movement.
By adjusting the stitch length and tension, you can achieve even results on both thick and thin fabrics.
Using a Teflon Foot, How to sew binding on a quilt by machine
A Teflon foot is a specialized presser foot that helps to reduce drag and prevent fabric from bunching up under the needle.
- Position the Teflon foot onto the machine’s presser foot lifter.
- Lower the presser foot lifter to secure the foot in place.
- Position the fabric under the presser foot, aligning it with the edge of the quilt.
By using a Teflon foot, you can achieve smooth fabric movement and even results.
Final Wrap-Up
And there you have it – a beautifully bound quilt that’s sure to impress your friends and family. With these simple steps and a bit of practice, you’ll be a pro at sewing binding on a quilt by machine in no time. Happy sewing, and don’t forget to share your finished projects with us!
Question & Answer Hub
Q: What’s the best type of binding fabric to use for machine sewing?
A: We recommend using a medium-weight cotton fabric with a bit of stretch for easy maneuverability and a professional finish.
Q: How do I prevent my binding from coming undone?
A: Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of your seam, and use a walking foot or even feed foot to help guide your fabric and prevent bunching.
Q: Can I use a rotary cutter for binding strips, or do I need to use scissors?
A: Either will work, but rotary cutting gives you more precision and speed. Just be sure to cut carefully and avoid any errors that might compromise your binding.
Q: What’s the difference between a 45-degree and a 90-degree corner?
A: A 45-degree corner is a mitered corner where the binding strips meet at a 45-degree angle, creating a seamless and professional finish. A 90-degree corner is a straightforward corner where the binding strips meet at a right angle.
