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Adding the Quilt Binding
Quilt binding encloses the raw edges of your quilt. It also gives it a clean, finished look. In this lesson, you'll learn how to cut and apply binding strips. There are two types of binding: Straight for straight edges, and bias for curved edges. Since we don't have curves, we'll bind our quilt with straight strips. I prefer to cut my strips from my outer border fabric. I do this because it matches, and it hides any imperfections. But you can use any color you want.
Step 1 Using your ruler and rotary cutter, trim batting and backing even with quilt top.
Step 2 Measure the width of your quilt (from side to side). Cut two strips that length, plus 1" extra. For example, if your quilt measures 23" across, cut your strips 24" long. Your strips should measure 24" x 2 ½".
Step 3 With wrong sides together, press quilt binding in half lengthwise.
Step 4 Pin binding strips to quilt with raw edges even. The quilt binding should extend ½" on both sides.
Step 5 Stitch binding to quilt ¼" from raw edge.
Step 6 Fold binding to the back side. Make sure it covers the stitching line (shown in red). Pin from the front side.
Step 7 Stitch in the ditch. Make sure you catch the binding on the back.
Step 8 Place quilt top on cutting mat. Line up ruler's edge with raw edge of quilt. Trim excess binding.
Step 9 Measure the length of your quilt (from top to bottom). Cut two strips that length, plus 1" extra.
Step 10 Repeat Steps 3 to 6 for side strips.
Step 11 Fold in binding strips ½". Press.
Step 12 Fold binding to the back side. Pin and stitch on the right side.
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