…there are at least six different ways to bind a quilt? Most of us have a favorite way to bind a quilt and we tend to stick to that method. Some of us found our way to that preference by trying a few different options on the way. Here are are the most common and maybe a few you might not be familiar with.
Double-fold binding: This is the most common method used for binding quilts. It involves cutting fabric strips, usually 2.5 inches wide, and sewing them together to create a long continuous strip. The strip is then folded in half lengthwise, pressed, and sewn to the quilt’s edges. The binding is then folded over to the back of the quilt and hand-stitched or machine-stitched in place.
Single-fold binding: This method is similar to double-fold binding, but instead of folding the fabric strip in half, it is folded just once. The single-fold binding is attached to the quilt’s edges, and then the raw edge is folded over and stitched down.
There is also a the single fold self binding method. It is a simple and efficient way to finish the edges of a quilt without adding a separate binding fabric.
Bias binding: Bias binding is made by cutting fabric strips on the bias (a 45-degree angle to the selvage) instead of cutting them parallel to the selvage. Bias binding is more flexible and can be easier to maneuver around curved edges. It is often used for quilts with scalloped or irregularly shaped edges.
Flange binding: Flange binding is a decorative method where a contrasting fabric strip is sewn between the quilt top and the binding. The flange strip is typically narrower than the binding strip, and it adds a colorful or decorative accent to the quilt’s edge.
Pillowcase binding: This method is a quick and easy way to finish the edges of a small quilt or a quilted wall hanging. It involves sewing the quilt’s backing fabric to the quilt top with right sides together, leaving an opening. After turning the quilt right side out through the opening, the backing fabric is folded to the front, creating a self-binding.
No-binding method: Some quilters choose to finish their quilts without a traditional binding. This can be achieved by using techniques like knife-edge finish, facing, or envelope-style closure. These methods create a clean edge without a separate binding strip.
Which method do you prefer to use? Have you tried any other methods? Is there a method I mentioned here you have never tried but want to learn more about?
Let me know! I have tried most of these, and definitely have my preferred method, which is double fold, probably because most quilters use this too. I will admit, on my first few quilts I used the pillowcase method to “avoid” binding all together, which may or may not be a good choice for a new quilter! And the knife edge is on my list for an upcoming quilt, so I’ll let you know how that goes!
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