Finishing corners on self-binding quilts can be a daunting task, but with the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can achieve professional-looking results. Self-binding quilts, also known as continuous binding, involve sewing the binding directly onto the quilt, creating a clean, finished edge. Let's dive into the process and learn how to tackle those corners like a pro.
Before we start, ensure you have prepared your quilt top, backing, and binding. The binding should be cut on the bias for better flexibility and a smoother finish. Also, have your sewing machine set up with a suitable presser foot and needle for quilting. Now, let's get started!
Preparing the Quilt and Binding
The first step is to attach the binding to two opposite sides of the quilt. Start by placing the raw edges of the binding and the quilt together, right sides facing. Sew along the edge, leaving the corners open for now.
Once you've sewn the two sides, press the seam allowance towards the binding. This will make it easier to work with the corners later on.
Mitering the Corners
Mitering is the technique used to create a neat, finished corner on self-binding quilts. To start, fold the binding away from the corner, creating a 45-degree angle. This is your miter.
Press the miter in place, then fold the binding back over the corner, enclosing the raw edges. The folded binding should now create a neat, diagonal line across the corner. Sew this in place, using a stitch that's long enough to go through all layers without breaking.
Finishing the Corners
Now that you've mitered the corner, it's time to finish it off. Fold the binding back over the edge of the quilt, creating a neat, clean corner. The miter should be visible on the front of the quilt.
Sew the binding in place, using a stitch that's long enough to go through all layers. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the binding. Repeat this process for all four corners.
Attaching the Remaining Binding
With the corners finished, it's time to attach the remaining binding. Start by folding the binding in half, right sides facing, and sewing it to the remaining two sides of the quilt. Again, leave the corners open for now.
Once you've sewn the sides, press the seam allowance towards the binding. Then, miter and finish the remaining corners using the same technique as before.
Hiding the Raw Edge
To finish off the binding, you'll need to hide the raw edge of the binding on the back of the quilt. Start by folding the binding over the edge of the quilt, creating a neat, clean edge.
Sew the binding in place, using a stitch that's long enough to go through all layers. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the binding. This will hide the raw edge and create a professional-looking finish.
Congratulations, you've just finished the corners on your self-binding quilt! With a bit of practice, you'll be able to tackle any quilt corner with confidence. Happy quilting!