Easy Quilt Edgings and Bindings

Types of Binding

• A binding is a quilt and project edging that finishes pieces, while also securing multiple layers of fabric together. Straight-grain binding is cut along the fabric grain and cross-grain binding is cut across the grain. Bias binding is usually cut at a 45-degree angle across the grain. Additionally, single-fold binding is folded over once, and double-fold binding is folded over twice. Double fold lasts longer overall than the single fold.

Binding Tools

• Bindings are made with several sewing tools. A ruler, rotary cutter or pair of scissors are needed to make the cuts. Some quilters purchase plastic cutting guides for their binding and other quilting projects. A sewing machine or a needle and thread can be used to sew the end sides of each binding piece together. A flat iron and sometimes starch is used to crease the bindings.

How to Make Binding

• Lay the fabric on a flat surface. Lay the straightedge on the fabric diagonally or perpendicular to the grain, depending on your desired type of binding. Mark out sections of fabric that are 2-inches wide. Cut apart the strips of fabric. Fold in the outer raw edges and press. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and press. The binding is ready to sew on or store for later use.

Buying Binding

• Quilters without the time to make bindings or edgings can purchase them at craft and fabric stores. These stores typically sell solid color cotton binding, single and double fold, in one to three yard lengths. Before heading to the store, measure around the width of your project to decide how much binding you'll need to purchase. Gather together fabric samples from your project, so you can pick out a matching binding color. You may also want to purchase a similarly colored thread for topstitching.