crankygran

I had an idea awhile back to make machine sewn binding easier and today I tried it on a baby quilt and it works. First I sewed a line of stay stitching all around the edge of the quilt, after doing the SID quilting. Then took the prepared binding and sewed it as usual, but to the back of the quilt. After that I trimmed the sandwich and then topstitched the binding on the front. I think it is much easier and you don't have to worry about how the bobbin thread looks on the front.

Montana34

This is probably a stupid question but what exactly is topstitching? Your idea sounds wonderful, I have a hard time with binding, I will try this next time.

Mattee

How were you doing it before? I know there's a million ways to do binding, but that's how I do mine, except I trim before I sew the binding to the back.

sewmuchmore

How about doing a tutorial for us. I love to see how you did it. :thumbup:

tutty

yes tut please and thank you ! Happy Healthy Blest New Year !

ktbb

top stitching is sewing from the right side of the material usually near, but not on, a seam, or paralleling the edge. It helps anchor the seam. You see it a lot on men's shirts down the front placket or around the cuffs/collar.

frugalfabrics

Yup, that's how I do mine - I agree, that the front looks so much nicer with the top stitching on the front.

auntmag

I use this method often. I like to use matching thread and use the blind hem stitch on my machine, sew close to the edge of the binding, then the zig stitch will catch the edge of the binding and makes it look like hand sewn.

tjradj

That's how I do mine too, but I do square up, or "trim" the quilt sandwich before I put the binding on.
For some quilts, instead of using a straight topstitch, I'll use the feather stitch, or another decorative stitch on the edge of the binding for a different look.
Happy Quilting - keep experimenting. Some of the best techniques are found that way!

Montana34

Thank you for answering my question. Really appreciate it!