Quilt binding is the final step in creating a beautiful, finished quilt. The corners, in particular, can make or break the overall look of your project. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do the corners on quilt binding like a pro.
Before we dive into the techniques, let's ensure you have the right tools. You'll need your quilt, binding strips (usually 2.5 inches wide), scissors, a seam ripper, and a sewing machine with a walking foot for better fabric control.
Preparing Your Binding Strips
Binding strips are typically cut on the bias for better stretch and to reduce bulk. Each strip should be 2.5 inches wide and long enough to go around your quilt plus an extra 10-12 inches for miters.
To prepare your strips, press them in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Then, press the raw edges towards the center fold. This will create a neat, narrow binding strip that's ready to be sewn onto your quilt.
Sewing the Binding to the Quilt
Start by sewing the binding to the front of your quilt along one side. Begin 3-4 inches from a corner to allow for mitering. Use a ¼-inch seam allowance and stop sewing 3-4 inches from the next corner.
Once you've sewn all four sides, you'll have a quilt with binding attached but not yet mitered. This is where the magic of corner binding happens.
Mitering the Corners
To miter a corner, first, fold the binding up at the corner, creating a 45-degree angle. The raw edges should meet, and the binding should be folded neatly at the corner.
Next, fold the binding back down, creating a neat miter. The raw edges should now be hidden, and the binding should be flat against the quilt. Press this miter in place, then continue sewing the binding around the quilt.
Finishing the Binding
Once you've sewn all the way around the quilt and met up with your starting point, you'll need to create a miter at this corner as well. Follow the same steps as before, then press the miter and sew it in place.
Now, you'll need to finish the binding on the back of the quilt. Fold the binding over to the back and miter the corners just like you did on the front. Sew the binding down, using a ladder stitch or blind stitch to hide the raw edges.
Trimming the Excess Binding
Before you finish the binding, you may want to trim any excess binding from the corners. This can help prevent bulk and ensure a neat finish.
To trim, carefully snip off the excess binding at the corner, being careful not to cut into the quilt top. Then, fold the binding back over and press the miter in place.
Congratulations! You've just learned how to do the corners on quilt binding. With a little practice, you'll be adding beautiful, professional-looking binding to all your quilts. Happy quilting!