Does binding ever get easier?

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09-15-2010, 04:24 AM

#21

SueDor

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Join Date: Aug 2010

Location: Ohio

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I cut my material for my binding 4 in. wide for a 3/4 in binding when I am all done.

09-15-2010, 04:40 AM

#22

Deb watkins

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Join Date: Apr 2009

Location: Horseheads, NY 14845

Posts: 4,025

Quote:

Originally Posted by grammyp

Nope, it doesn't. That is my least favorite part of the quilt. I always though it would mean "you are close to the end, be happy, celebrate, enjoy this last step." But I hate binding. Right now I have 3 quilts and a wall hanging waiting to be bound.

My, oh, my......the binding is my favorite part of the quilt! Wouldn't it be great if all the binders who are in a bind (haha) could get together with those of us whose quilts (as opposed to panties) are in a bunch and get the wrinkles worked out!!! Hmmmmm..........who wants to come to my gazebo??? :roll:

09-15-2010, 05:56 AM

#23

raptureready

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Join Date: Feb 2010

Location: Illinois

Posts: 5,142

Quote:

Originally Posted by 0tis

Hi everyone,

I have been quilting for the last year and have made at least 10 projects - my question is does binding ever get easier? I am never very happy with the final binding. Most times when I stitch on the front - thats ok - but when I hand stitch to the back - it's not the same size - I usually cut binding at 2 1/2 inches then press in half for double binding - it will look like 1/4" or 1/2" but when I turn it to the back for hand sewing - the edge maybe less than 1/4". Surprisingly enough, I don't have problems with the mitered corners.

Are you saying the binding isn't the same size (uneven) or the stitches aren't the same size? If it's the stitches, it just takes practice. I use a blind stitch or is it a hem stitch? I never remember but it's where the thread between the stitches is inside the binding fold. I try to keep the space between the stitches as close to 3/8" as possible but I don't always succeed. I also try to make my stitches that connect it to the backing as small and inconspicuous as possible. Oh, if you're doing curves make sure you cut the binding on the bias.

09-15-2010, 06:12 AM

#24

Jeanniejo

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Join Date: Apr 2010

Location: Southern , Virginia

Posts: 1,518

I LOVE to do bindings !!! It's like the final flower on a cake, when it's done I feel such accomplishment and can truly admire all my hard work.

09-15-2010, 07:21 AM

#25

lalaland

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Join Date: Jan 2010

Location: Yakima, WA

Posts: 2,439

Quote:

Originally Posted by quiltingfan

Quote:

Originally Posted by lalaland

I hate sewing on the binding, it's just not my thing, so now I cut the back fabric larger and bring it over as the binding. I really like the technique and it takes the "pain" out the process for me. This is the website showing how to do it if you'd like to give it a try sometime.

http://www.lorettaalvarado.com/binding.htm

Have done it this way. Have hand sewn the binding have used the sewing machine, and have even double stitch it because it did not catch the first time. I now have a binding tool for my machine will see how that works.

I use a decorative stitch when I sew down the binding, catching both the binding and the fabric. Sometimes I use the blanket stitch. It adds a little more pizzazz than the straight stitch.

09-15-2010, 07:39 AM

#26

KarenS

Junior Member

Join Date: Aug 2010

Location: Yakima, WA

Posts: 244

I usually cut my binding to 2 1/2 inches. I fold it in half and press. Then I sew it to the front of the quilt with my walking foot. I would guess my seam allowance is around 3/8 or 1/2 inch??? I start sewing, maybe a few inches, then stop and check it, turning it to the back of the quilt to see if it will fold over enough to cover my stitching line. If it doesn't quite cover, I rip out the seam and start over, making it a little larger. I actually enjoy doing bindings. Maybe I should go into business and do bindings for all these fellow quilters who hate to do bindings!!! What do you think??? :)

09-15-2010, 09:01 AM

#27

Kitsie

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Join Date: Mar 2010

Location: Ridgefield WA

Posts: 7,765

Quote:

Originally Posted by lalaland

That's a great idea for hangings, etc. but be aware that this binding has only one layer of fabric around the edge. Might not be suitable for a bed quilt or a pillow.

09-15-2010, 09:55 AM

#28

0tis

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Join Date: Mar 2010

Location: Northern California

Posts: 2,644

Thank you everyone I am looking up that video right now.

09-15-2010, 09:59 AM

#29

Melinda in Tulsa

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Join Date: Dec 2008

Location: Tulsa, Oklahoma

Posts: 4,413

I guess I'm just one of the lucky ones. After I found the right size binding to suit me, binding is a breeze for me. I don't pin at all, just stitch and go. Yes, it will get easier. Just don't fret it and you will find as time goes by, with each new binding it will get easier! :thumbup:

09-15-2010, 09:59 AM

#30

MadQuilter

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Join Date: Mar 2009

Posts: 15,639

Yes, it does! With time and trial of different methods, odds are you'll settle on one that works the best for you. Personally, I believe that good miters in the corner are more important than even distribution front to back. Usually my back binding is wider than the front and I AM PERFECTLY OK WITH THAT!