Some people like to bind a quilt …. and some people don’t. Some people feel both ways! I like binding the quilt because it means my project is done and I can move on to the next. However, I am often impatient because there really isn’t too much creativity that goes into binding, unlike the quilt top.
Sometimes in the past I found that I was so anxious to get the quilt finished, I would just slap on any color binding that didn’t “offend” the quilt. Now, it’s different! I now think of binding as sort of the last “frame” for the quilts I make. There are several ways you can enhance your quilt with binding.
Color
One option is to have a scrappy binding, using several of the fabrics that were used in the quilt:
Or as another option, you can have a one color binding using your favorite color from the quilt. For example, if you have a red fabric in the blocks, you may want to call attention to that by putting on a red binding. It will appear that you are “pulling” that red out of the quilt for attention.
Another eye-catching option is binding with striped fabric. Cut binding strips on the bias from a fun stripe fabric for a cool design effect:
A final option I have used is a contrasting binding like using black fabric to frame a scrappy quilt. The black “outlines” my quilt!
Finally, if you are more interested in having your binding just fade into the background, choose a binding that is the same color or close to the same color as the outside border of your quilt.
What Size?
Do you use single-fold or double-fold binding? That is usually up to the quilter. But, here’s how I decide to use it. I use single fold binding on quilted projects that will be mostly decorative, like wall hangings, candle mats and table toppers. On quilted projects that may get more use like lap quilts and bed quilts, I will use a double-fold binding for more durability.
My single-fold binding is made from 1 1/2″ strips of fabric seamed together on the bias.
My double-fold binding is make from 2 1/4 to 2 1/2″ strips, seamed together on the bias and then pressed in half lengthwise.
Tip
So you know how it’s really hard to wrangle long strips of binding while you are attaching it to your quilt? Well, roll up your binding around a cardboard toilet paper roll and secure it with a large pin to hold in place! You can also just roll it up and secure it with a large binding clip. This keeps it under control!
Do you have any tips or ideas to share on binding? Leave me a comment and be entered in a drawing for a 3 pack of my newest patterns!
**We have a winner! Congrats, Beverly!**
So, what are you waiting for? Time to tackle that binding! Get to work!
Happy Quilting!
Deanne
I don’t think it is really a hint. I like to always have a small quilt on hand not only to bind but to quilt by hand. It comes in handy for a long car ride or waiting in a doctor’s office.
I like to take sewing in the car. I get bored on long trips.
PS. Your quilts are gorgeous and I am so glad I followed the link on Facebook. I can’t wait to place an order and join your newsletter!
Thanks so much!
My wife has 9 quilts waiting to bind. She sets up a 6ft folding table in front of the recliner so most of the quilt can lay on the table versus her. She recent used random lengths from multiple fabrics in the quilt. We were both very pleased with the results.
good idea!
You always have useful tips and your projects hot the right cord in my design choices.
Thanks!
I have a nice fabric “bucket” that a friend made me. As I press the binding, I direct it off the end of the ironing board into the bucket where it gently accumulates. Then when I go to sew it on the quilt, i set the bucket next to me and I pull out the end last pressed and it feeds nicely as I sew it on. By keeping it off the floor, it doesn’t gather any cat hairs as I press it or as I sew it. It doesn’t tangle as I pull it out to sew, either. I love your patterns. Right up my Scrappy alley.
That’s an idea I have not heard before. Sounds like it works great.
I’m glad you like my scrappy patterns!
I use a Kleenex box works great just pull it out like a tissue!
Good idea!
Your tips are great. Yes binding is my last thought. I never cut fabric binding first. I like to see how the quilt goes, then make binding decisions last. I can take my binding project to hand stitch down the back side while waiting for kids activities.
Thanks for e tips! I usually wait till I’m finished quilting before deciding on the binding. Most often I use the same fabric as my last border for the i ding.
I like to bind with polka dot fabric. It adds a fun addition to the project.