binding help!
 

Hi, Im trying to hand sew the back of the binding, for the first time. I have done it by machine before. Its a disaster. I can see my stitches, and they arent even, and its really bothering me. Have already ripped them out once and this is my second time around. I have seen some tutorials online, but its so hard to see how the stitches are being done. My other mistake is I made the binding way too narrow, I cut it at 2 inches, so its really thin, making the process harder I think.
Any tips on needles? stitches to use? Any help is so appreciated!
XOXO Bee

I use a small - sharp needle, and use my little finger to create a standard measure for my stitches. Run the thread inside the binding when moving from point to point... Don't use a long thread.. just knot it after you have stitched a couple of feet.

Make sure the thread matches the binding - and Voila... You will be happy with the results.

Missouri Star Quilt com has a binding tutorial.

thanks for the little finger tip, I'll try that!

I use Clover wonder clips to keep my binding in place as I go. Some people use hair clips too. That has been a big help for me. Good luck!

I don't understand how the little finger helps. I strive for 1/8" but usually wind up with closer to 1/4" apart. My little finger is fatter than that! (Maybe it's fatter than most?)

My hand sewn stitches are only about 1/8 inch apart/long on the back, too.

I use the ladder stitch, and being right handed I sew the binding from the right side to the left side. That way the corners miter easily.

I think that if my stitches were as far apart as the width of my little finger, my little toe could catch in the open space.

Google "hand stitching or blind stitching binding to back of quilt". You will find demos showing the blind stitch. They should be helpful. I also stitch from right going to the left.

I don't worry about the size of stitches. I pull the doubled hand quilting thread tight and never pay attention to the stitches after I'm done. I aim for a 1/4".

When I sew a hem, I run the thread through the folded hem stitching from right to left. When I researched for my first binding, I learned, however, that you should do the appliqué stitch and stitch from bottom to top, running thread between the backing and batting and bringing up into the binding. Then go directly to the right in the backing for your next stitch. Do the stitches very close (1/4") and with a similar color and you'll be very happy. I also use single, not double thread, and a smaller gauge. I use Masterpiece 50 weight. It is strong but disappears as it is thin. I also use the wonder clips and love them.

I learned from a tute on this board on how to do the ladder stitch. It's been a couple years so I don't remember who put it up. Excellent close-up pics. I believe white fabric with green thread. Only had to look at it once. Sound familiar anyone?

I use straw needles and match the thread to the binding. I think my stitches are about 1/4 each. If you can find silk thread, it just disappears. I have a hard time finding too many colors locally. practice helps too...

I use this method as well For me, the "ladder stitch" gaps too much. When I catch the binding using the applique stitch I aim for a spot on the underside of the fold but right near the fold. I only pick up two or three threads worth of fabric and go right back into the quilt. They look good and when done are invisible .

When you hold the binding in your left hand tip the edge you are sewing upwards and do the ladder stitch just inside the fold under it when finished after so many pull up level.
It is a technique I also use for hand turning applique.
Also similiar to the ladder stitch used to join knitting .