Joe

I usually use bias binding that I make using the molar method. But the other day I needed a quicker binding and just used 2.5" straight grain strips. Which do you use and why? The straight grain seemed easier for sure but what is the difference and which is better? Lots of questions haha thanks!

Christine-

You really don't need to use bias binding on straight quilt edges. It's a matter of preference really. I always do straight grain strips myself. I have a scalloped edge on one of my quilt tops that will need bias binding though.

Iceblossom

Straight grain binding whether long- or cross-grain is just fine. It is definitely faster, easier and you don't need to make as much excess binding.

In general I make bias binding and prefer the french double fold method. I machine sew on front and hand sew the binding down on the back. The bias is mostly helpful when you have curves and such, but I like the way it makes striped fabric march around the quilt. I also feel the diagonal seams are stronger/have less problems and are less noticeable but you can still do that with straight grain binding.

SusieQOH

I rarely use bias binding unless I am going around curves.

Moira in N.E. England

I prefer straight grain, especially if I can cut it across the width of the fabric as this has the least stretch.

I think bias binding is cut on the bias so that it will stretch - great for curves but not really that helpful for straight edges.

quiltsRfun

I do mostly straight grain binding but the bias binding I’ve done seems to last longer.

Jordan

I usually make binding by cutting selvage to selvage and cut it 2 1/2". The only time I made a bias binding was when I put binding on a wedding ring quilt and that took a lot more fabric and I really wasn't fond of doing it. I think it is definitely personal preference for what binding you want to do.

Tartan

I only use bias on churved bindings like scallops. On everything else it’s strips cut WOF.

nativetexan

what in the world is Molar method? I've never heard of that. I use 2 1/2 inch binding cut across width of fabric usually. hardly ever need bias.

pewa88

Straight of grain unless applying to a curved quilt.