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How to Replace Binding on an Old Quilt

A quilt can provide years of comfort and warmth for you and your family. Sew new binding to extend the life of an old and beloved quilt. Stitching ready-to-use blanket binding or double-fold bias tape saves you time and effort. These bindings encase the quilt̵7;s raw edges and reduce fraying. A stitched binding offers an attractive finish smooth to the touch.

Things You'll Need

Seam ripper
Iron
Packaged blanket binding or double-fold bias tape
Straight pins
Thread
Scissors
Sewing machine
Table or chair
Hand-sewing needle (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Using a seam ripper, cut the threads that secure the old binding to the quilt. Remove any stray threads and binding pieces.
- 2
  Set the iron to a temperature for the binding fabric. Press the new binding to remove wrinkles and seal the folds.
- 3
  Encase the raw edge of the quilt in the binding̵7;s fold. Insert straight pins to hold the quilt between the two layers of binding. Extend the binding 3 to 4 inches at each end of the quilt edge.
- 4
  Tuck the extended tails under for a neater finish. Trim the excess binding to reduce bulkiness against the quilt. Pin in place.
- 5
  Support the the quilt and binding at the sewing machine with a table or chair next to the machine to keep the quilt off the floor.
- 6
  Select a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch on the machine̵7;s selector. Machine-stitch close to the binding edge. Remove each pin as the fabric feeds across the needle plate.
- 7
  Backstitch over the last few stitches to help secure the thread. Trim the thread close to the last stitch.

Sewing