machine binding back first or front first
01-11-2014, 06:51 AM
#31
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A step that I deem important doesn't seem to have been mentioned here. If I use the machine to do the binding I sew it on the back of the quilt. Then I use a ruler to be sure and trim layers even (this is only a small amount, but the layers need to be perfectly even). Then I press the binding and quilt so that it is flat. When I roll it to the front to stitch I know that the back is flat and will not be wavy. Sometimes I use a decorative stitch and use the presser foot recommended by the stitch I choose. I find that the good pressing makes the corner miters really square. I have had good outcomes with machine binding. Just like machine quilting for shows had to come of age I think machine binding will also become acceptable some time in the future.
01-11-2014, 06:59 AM
#32
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I think it depends on the use of the quilt. If it is to be used everyday and washed often (i.e., a child's quilt, TV throw, lap quilt for elderly), then I would do it by machine and one of use the several machine applications. However, if it is to be used carefully and might be an heirloom, then by all means stitch the binding on the top first and then handstitch on the back.
I make a lot of Quilts of Valor and apply the binding on the back first, turn to top and then use a decorative stitch to secure. Most of these quilts go into a hospital setting where spills will happen and these quilts must stand up to many washings.
I make a lot of Quilts of Valor and apply the binding on the back first, turn to top and then use a decorative stitch to secure. Most of these quilts go into a hospital setting where spills will happen and these quilts must stand up to many washings.
01-11-2014, 07:19 AM
#34
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There is a way to sew the binding on the front and machine stitch the second step. Don't know if I can explain, but this is what I do.: I cut the binding 1/4 of an inch wider than usual. Fold in half as usual. Sew to the front. When the binding is rolled over to the back it will be wider on the back than on the front. Then, on the right side, stitch as close to the binding as you can. I usually use my fingers on the left hand to nudge the binding out of the way. The stitching won't show once the binding is rolled back into place. The stitching will catch the binding on the back. Is this as clear as mud? (Actually when I was doing garment sewing in the sixties, this is what we called stitching in the ditch.)
Originally Posted by gigigray032447 
I machine sew all my bindings. From the front first making sure that the binding lines up evenly with the quilt edge. I then press, pin on the back making sure the stitch line is covered, and stitch in the ditch from the front. It's taken me a few quilts to get it right, but I perfected the technique to where I'm more than pleased with the result. I've tried every way there is to machine sew bindings because I make so many comfort quilts. This works the best for me.
I make my bindings like gigigray and GailG. But there are a few things I would like to add. After the binding is sewn onto the front, open it out and press that seam very well. This is the ditch into which you will stitch. I have no need to make the binding or raw edges wider. Fold to the back and use School Glue to hold the binding down just about 1/8 inch over the stitching line. When I SID from the front I very seldom miss anything. After the quilt is washed, the binding relaxes and the SID is almost invisible, as it should be.
01-11-2014, 08:29 AM
#36
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Location: Los Angeles, Ca
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There is a way to sew the binding on the front and machine stitch the second step. Don't know if I can explain, but this is what I do.: I cut the binding 1/4 of an inch wider than usual. Fold in half as usual. Sew to the front. When the binding is rolled over to the back it will be wider on the back than on the front. Then, on the right side, stitch as close to the binding as you can. I usually use my fingers on the left hand to nudge the binding out of the way. The stitching won't show once the binding is rolled back into place. The stitching will catch the binding on the back. Is this as clear as mud? (Actually when I was doing garment sewing in the sixties, this is what we called stitching in the ditch.)
Clear to me ... might try it
01-11-2014, 09:05 AM
#37
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01-11-2014, 09:59 AM
#38
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01-11-2014, 10:01 AM
#39
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I generally prefer to sew the binding on the front, then finish the back by hand stitching. However, occasionally I will do the binding by machine, sewing it to the back first, then coming around to the front.
01-11-2014, 10:02 AM
#40
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Location: Upstate NY, north of Syracuse Area
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I can't do much hand sewing so I stitch to the back, then sew the front down. It's not perfect but I have yet to get a complaint. I think it looks nice with a decorative stitch but it's not necessary.
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