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5 Ways to Perfectly Attach Blanket Binding (Beginner to Advanced)
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3 Quick & Easy Methods for Blanket Binding
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The Ultimate Guide to Attaching Blanket Binding: Tips & Tricks
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Transforming a simple blanket into a cherished heirloom often hinges on the finishing touches. A beautifully applied blanket binding elevates a handmade blanket from cozy to couture. However, attaching binding can feel daunting for both novice and experienced sewists alike. Fear not! This guide will unravel the secrets to achieving a professional-looking finish, leaving you with a blanket that’s as aesthetically pleasing as it is snug. Whether you’re working with a delicate baby blanket or a chunky throw, understanding the nuances of binding application will ensure your project is a resounding success. Moreover, we’ll explore various techniques to cater to different fabrics and binding styles, ensuring you have the knowledge to tackle any blanket-binding endeavor with confidence. Ultimately, you’ll discover that achieving a polished, store-bought look is within your grasp, turning your handcrafted blanket into a true masterpiece.
First, choose the right binding. This crucial first step sets the stage for the entire process. Consider the weight and texture of your blanket fabric. For instance, a lightweight flannel pairs well with a softer, narrower binding, while a heavier fleece might benefit from a wider, more robust option. Additionally, the binding material itself plays a vital role. Bias binding, known for its flexibility, conforms beautifully to curves and corners, making it ideal for blankets with intricate shapes. Conversely, straight-grain binding offers a more structured finish, well-suited for blankets with straight edges. Once you’ve selected your binding, preparing it is equally important. Pre-washing the binding fabric prevents shrinkage and color bleeding, ensuring a consistent finish after the blanket is laundered. Furthermore, pressing the binding helps create crisp folds, facilitating a smoother, more even application. By meticulously addressing these initial steps, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a polished, professional result.
Now, let’s delve into the actual attachment process. Pinning the binding accurately is paramount for a neat finish. Start by aligning the raw edges of the binding with the raw edge of the blanket, ensuring the binding extends slightly beyond the blanket edge. Then, working in small sections, carefully pin the binding in place, easing any fullness or stretching as needed, particularly around curves. Next, stitch the binding to the blanket. A straight stitch, close to the edge of the binding, provides a secure and visually appealing seam. Alternatively, decorative stitches can add a touch of personality and flair. After stitching, carefully fold the binding over the raw edge of the blanket and press. This creates a clean, polished look and helps the binding lie flat. Finally, stitch the folded edge of the binding to the back of the blanket, either by hand using a blind stitch for an invisible finish, or by machine using a topstitch. With each meticulously executed step, you’ll see your blanket transform, culminating in a beautifully bound masterpiece you’ll cherish for years to come. Furthermore, experimenting with different stitching techniques can add personalized touches, elevating your project from simply functional to truly unique.
Preparing Your Blanket and Binding
Preparing Your Blanket
Before you even think about attaching binding, your blanket needs a little prep work. This ensures a smooth, professional finish. First things first, if your blanket has raw edges, you’ll want to finish them. This is especially important for woven fabrics which tend to fray. A serged edge is ideal, creating a clean, durable finish. If you don’t have a serger, a zig-zag stitch on your sewing machine works well too. Just make sure your stitch is wide and close enough together to prevent fraying. For knit fabrics, this step might not be necessary, depending on the fabric’s tendency to curl or unravel. If your knit fabric seems stable, you can skip the edge finishing.
Next, consider the shape of your blanket. If it’s rectangular or square, fantastic! You’re ready to move on. However, if you’ve crafted a circular or irregularly shaped blanket, you might need to make some adjustments to the binding as you go. This usually involves easing in the binding fabric on curves and mitering corners for sharp angles. Don’t worry, we’ll cover these techniques later.
Ironing your blanket is a crucial step often overlooked. A neatly pressed blanket is much easier to work with and results in a more polished final product. Press out any wrinkles or creases, paying particular attention to the edges where you’ll be attaching the binding. This will create a smooth, even surface for attaching the binding. Think of it like prepping a canvas before painting – a smooth surface yields the best results.
Finally, consider pre-shrinking your blanket, especially if it’s made from natural fibers like cotton or wool. Washing and drying the blanket before binding prevents the finished product from shrinking unevenly after its first wash, which could cause puckering or distortion. While pre-shrinking might seem like an extra step, it’s well worth the effort in the long run for a beautifully finished blanket that maintains its shape and size.
Binding Fabric Types and Considerations
Choosing the right binding fabric is just as important as preparing the blanket itself. You want a fabric that complements your blanket both aesthetically and functionally. Here’s a breakdown of some common binding fabric choices:
| Fabric Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton Quilting Fabric | Wide variety of prints and colors, easy to work with | Can shrink, may fray if not pre-washed |
| Flannel | Soft and cozy, adds warmth | Can be bulky, may shrink |
| Minky | Luxuriously soft, adds a plush touch | Can be challenging to sew with, stretches easily |
| Satin | Sleek and elegant, adds a touch of luxury | Slippery and can be difficult to sew, prone to fraying |
Pre-washing your binding fabric, just like the blanket, is essential to prevent shrinkage and color bleeding later. This is especially true for cotton fabrics. Once washed and dried, iron your binding fabric to remove any wrinkles and make it easier to handle.
Preparing Your Binding
Choosing the Right Binding Method
Picking the perfect binding for your blanket can feel a bit overwhelming with so many options out there. But don’t worry, it’s all about finding the method that best suits your project and your skill level. Think about the look you’re going for, the fabric of your blanket, and how much time you’re willing to spend on the finishing touches. This will guide you towards the right choice.
Bias Binding
Bias binding is a popular choice for its flexibility and neat finish. It’s cut on the bias (diagonal) of the fabric, which gives it a lovely stretch that allows it to smoothly curve around corners and contours. This makes it a fantastic option for blankets with rounded edges or intricate shapes. You can purchase pre-made bias tape or make your own. Creating your own allows for complete control over fabric choice and width, perfectly coordinating your binding with your blanket’s design.
Types of Bias Binding
When it comes to bias binding, you’ve got a few choices. Single fold bias tape is folded in half lengthwise, with raw edges enclosed within the fold. It’s perfect for a simple, streamlined finish and works well when sewn directly onto the blanket edge. Double fold bias tape takes it a step further by being folded twice, creating a clean, enclosed edge on both sides. This type is great for encasing the raw edge of the blanket for a truly polished look. You can find both single and double fold bias tape in a wide range of colors and fabrics, from basic cotton to luxurious satin.
Choosing the width of your bias tape depends on the thickness of your blanket and the desired finished look. A narrower tape (like ¼ inch or ½ inch) provides a delicate edge, while a wider tape (1 inch or more) creates a bolder statement. Experiment to see what looks best with your project.
| Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Single Fold | Folded in half lengthwise, raw edges enclosed. | Simple finishes, sewn directly onto the blanket. |
| Double Fold | Folded twice, enclosing raw edges on both sides. | Encasing raw blanket edges for a polished look. |
Beyond single and double fold, you might also encounter pre-made bias binding with decorative stitching or embellishments. These can add a touch of personality to your blanket and elevate the overall design. If you’re feeling creative, you can even add your own embellishments after applying the binding, such as decorative stitching, beads, or appliqués.
Other Binding Methods
While bias binding is a popular go-to, it’s not the only way to finish a blanket. A simple folded hem can create a clean, minimalist edge, particularly for blankets made from thicker fabrics. You can also explore using contrasting fabrics for the binding to add a pop of color or pattern. For a truly unique finish, consider crocheting or knitting a border around your blanket. Each method offers a different aesthetic and level of complexity, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for your style.
Mitering the Corners for a Professional Finish
Mitering your blanket binding creates a polished, professional look, giving your blanket a clean, finished edge. It might seem intimidating at first, but with a little practice, you’ll find it’s a straightforward technique that significantly elevates your blanket-making game. It eliminates bulky overlapping seams at the corners, resulting in a neat and tidy appearance. Here’s how to achieve those perfectly mitered corners.
Preparing for the Miter
Before you begin mitering, ensure your binding is attached to the blanket along all edges except for the final corner section you’re about to fold and sew. Stop your stitching about 4-5 inches from the corner, leaving a ‘tail’ of binding free. This extra fabric will be used to form the miter. It’s essential to press the binding thoroughly before mitering to create crisp folds and ensure accuracy.
Creating the Mitered Fold
Take the loose tail of the binding and fold it upwards, away from the blanket, at a 45-degree angle. The folded edge should align with the edge of the blanket where the binding will eventually be sewn. Imagine you are creating a diagonal line that bisects the corner perfectly. Use a fabric clip or pin to secure this fold temporarily. This creates the first leg of your mitered corner. Now, carefully fold the binding down, towards the blanket, creating another 45-degree angle. This second fold should lie flat against the blanket edge, creating a neat triangular fold at the corner. The raw edge of the binding should be aligned with the raw edge of the blanket. Again, secure this fold with a fabric clip or pin. The corner of the binding should now be neatly tucked into the folded ‘triangle’ you just created.
Stitching the Mitered Corner
Begin stitching from the point where you left off, backstitching a few stitches to secure the seam. Continue stitching along the folded edge of the binding, ensuring your stitches catch both the binding and the blanket. Stitch right up to the point of the miter – the tip of the triangle you created. Be precise with your stitching here for a clean finish. Once you reach the corner point, stop with your needle down in the fabric, lift the presser foot, and pivot your blanket 90 degrees. Now, lower the presser foot and continue stitching along the next edge of the blanket, ensuring the folded edge of the binding is secured. Continue stitching as normal, securing the binding to the blanket edge. Repeat this process for each of your blanket’s corners. Below is a helpful table summarizing the key steps in creating a mitered corner:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Stop stitching 4-5 inches from the corner. |
| 2 | Fold the binding tail up at a 45-degree angle, away from the blanket. |
| 3 | Fold the binding down at a 45-degree angle, towards the blanket, creating a triangular fold. |
| 4 | Stitch along the folded edge, pivoting at the corner point. |
| This mitered corner technique gives your blankets a truly professional and polished look. Don’t be afraid to practice on scraps of fabric before tackling your final project. With a little patience, you’ll be mastering mitered corners in no time! |
Sewing the Binding to the Blanket: Straight Stitch Method
The straight stitch method is a simple and effective way to attach binding to your blanket, creating a clean and polished finish. It’s perfect for beginners and experienced sewists alike, offering a straightforward approach with beautiful results.
Preparing Your Blanket and Binding
Before you begin sewing, make sure your blanket edges are neat and even. If necessary, trim any frayed threads or uneven edges. Press your binding in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, creating a crisp fold. This will serve as your guide when attaching it to the blanket.
Pinning the Binding
Start by aligning the raw edge of the folded binding with the raw edge of your blanket. Leave a tail of approximately 4-6 inches of unbound binding at the beginning. This tail will be used to join the ends of the binding later. Use plenty of pins to secure the binding to the blanket, ensuring it stays in place while you sew. Pin all the way around the blanket, stopping about 4-6 inches from where you started, leaving another tail of unbound binding.
Starting Your Stitch
Begin sewing about an inch from the starting edge of the binding, backstitching a few stitches to secure your thread. Use a straight stitch and a seam allowance of approximately ¼ inch. Sew slowly and carefully, ensuring the binding stays aligned with the edge of the blanket. Remove the pins as you sew to prevent your needle from hitting them.
Sewing the Binding to the Blanket
Continue sewing the binding to the blanket, keeping a consistent ¼ inch seam allowance. As you approach corners, slow down and slightly pivot the blanket to maintain a smooth curve. Be mindful of keeping the binding taut but not stretched. If the binding feels too loose, gently ease it in as you sew. If it feels too tight, slightly ease the blanket fabric to avoid puckering. Regularly check the back of your work to ensure the binding is catching the blanket edge evenly. A smooth and consistent stitch is key to a professional-looking finish. Stop stitching approximately 1 inch before the end, leaving a gap that mirrors the gap at the beginning. Backstitch a few stitches to secure the thread. Now, you’ll join the two ends of the binding.
Joining the Binding Ends
Overlap the two loose ends of the binding, ensuring the folded edges align neatly. Trim any excess binding, leaving about a ½ inch overlap. Fold the end of one binding piece under by ½ inch, creating a clean finished edge. Tuck this folded edge inside the other binding end. Pin in place. Carefully stitch across the joined binding ends, securing them together. This creates an invisible join that blends seamlessly with the rest of the binding. Once the ends are joined, complete the final inch of stitching on the blanket, securing the joined binding to the blanket edge.
Folding and Finishing
Fold the binding over the raw edge of the blanket, encasing it completely. The pre-creased fold will help guide you as you wrap the binding around the blanket edge. Use pins to secure the folded binding, ensuring it lies flat and evenly spaced. You can use a special binding clip to help hold everything in place.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Binding Clips | Hold the folded binding in place before topstitching. A great alternative to pins. |
| Walking Foot | Helps feed multiple layers of fabric evenly, preventing the top layer from shifting. |
| Wonder Clips | Another option for holding the binding, especially helpful for thicker blankets. |
Sewing the Binding to the Blanket: Decorative Stitch Options
Once you’ve expertly stitched the binding to the front of your blanket, it’s time to secure it on the back. While a simple straight stitch will certainly do the job, why not elevate your blanket with a decorative stitch? This adds a touch of personality and a professional finish. Let’s explore some options.
Decorative Stitching Techniques
Choosing the right decorative stitch depends on your personal style and the overall look you want to achieve. A wide variety of stitches are available on most sewing machines, from classic to contemporary. Consider the weight and texture of your blanket fabric when selecting your stitch. A delicate stitch may get lost on a chunky knit, while a bold stitch can overwhelm a lightweight quilt.
The Zigzag Stitch
A tried and true classic, the zigzag stitch is a simple yet effective way to add visual interest. Adjust the width and length of the zigzag to customize the look. A narrow, dense zigzag creates a subtle textured line, while a wider, longer zigzag offers a bolder statement. The zigzag is also a practical choice, as it provides extra durability and can help prevent fraying along the binding edge.
The Blind Hem Stitch
For a more discreet finish, the blind hem stitch is an excellent option. Designed to be nearly invisible from the right side of the blanket, it creates a clean, professional look. This stitch is particularly well-suited for blankets with a busy print or texture, as it doesn’t compete for attention. Be sure to practice on a scrap of fabric first to ensure your stitch settings are correct and the needle catches just the edge of the folded binding.
The Decorative Stitch Variety
Modern sewing machines boast an impressive array of decorative stitches, from scallops and feathers to hearts and stars. Feel free to experiment and find a stitch that complements your blanket design. If your blanket features a specific theme, like nautical or floral, choose a stitch that echoes that theme. A shell stitch, for instance, would be a charming addition to a beach-themed blanket. Before committing to a specific decorative stitch, test it out on a scrap of fabric to see how it looks with your chosen thread and blanket fabric.
Matching Thread to Your Stitch
The color of your thread can significantly impact the final look of your decorative stitching. A contrasting thread will make the stitching stand out, creating a bold design element. A matching thread, on the other hand, will result in a more subtle, blended look. For a truly unique touch, consider using a variegated thread, which gradually changes color as you sew. This can add a touch of whimsy and visual interest to your blanket.
Tips for Successful Decorative Stitching
To ensure your decorative stitching is neat and even, take your time and sew slowly. It’s also helpful to use a walking foot, which feeds the fabric evenly from both the top and bottom, preventing puckering or stretching. If your machine has a speed control, use it to maintain a consistent stitching pace. Don’t be afraid to practice on scraps of fabric until you feel comfortable with the stitch and your machine settings.
Stitch Considerations and Troubleshooting:
Choosing the right decorative stitch and successfully executing it can seem daunting, but with a little planning and practice, you can achieve beautiful results. This table outlines some common challenges and solutions:
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Puckering Fabric | Use a walking foot, reduce stitch length, or loosen the upper thread tension. |
| Skipped Stitches | Change to a new needle, re-thread the machine, or check the bobbin tension. |
| Uneven Stitching | Practice on scrap fabric, sew slowly and steadily, or use a speed control. |
| Thread Breaking | Re-thread the machine, use a higher quality thread, or adjust the tension. |
| Stitch Doesn’t Look Right on the Fabric | Test the stitch on a scrap of the blanket fabric before stitching the entire binding. Consider a different stitch, thread color, or thread weight. |
Folding and Pressing the Binding for a Clean Edge
Prepping your blanket binding correctly is key to achieving a polished, professional look. This process involves folding and pressing, which creates crisp edges and makes the sewing process much smoother. A well-pressed binding also ensures even stitching and prevents puckering or twisting.
Preparing the Binding Strips
Start by cutting your binding strips on the bias (diagonally to the grain of the fabric). This allows the binding to curve smoothly around corners and prevents it from fraying excessively. The width of your strips depends on your preference and the thickness of the blanket, but typically ranges from 2.5 to 3 inches.
Folding in Half Lengthwise
With the wrong side of the fabric facing up, fold the binding strip in half lengthwise, bringing the long edges together. Press firmly along the fold with a hot iron. This creates a center crease that will serve as a guide during the sewing process.
Opening and Pressing the Edges
Open the folded binding strip. Now, fold each raw edge towards the center crease you just made. Press these folds firmly with your iron. This step encloses the raw edges within the folded binding, preventing fraying and creating a neat, finished edge.
Folding in Half Again
Once both raw edges are folded in and pressed, fold the binding strip in half again along the original center crease. Ensure the folded edges are tucked neatly inside. Press firmly along the entire length of the binding. This creates the double-fold binding that you’ll attach to your blanket.
Tips for Crisp Folds
Using a starch or sizing spray can help achieve sharper, longer-lasting creases, especially with fabrics that tend to wrinkle easily. For extra crisp folds, you can also use a tailor’s clapper. This tool helps to flatten the fabric and set the creases as they cool.
Using a Tailor’s Clapper
A tailor’s clapper is a small wooden tool used to flatten seams and creases after pressing with an iron. The wood absorbs excess moisture and heat, helping to set the press and prevent shine or scorching on the fabric. To use a clapper, press the seam with your iron and immediately place the clapper on top of the pressed area. Hold it in place for a few seconds until the fabric cools.
Pressing Temperatures
Use the appropriate iron temperature setting for your chosen binding fabric. Check the fabric care label for guidance. Incorrect temperature settings can result in scorching or melting, especially with synthetic fabrics.
| Fabric Type | Recommended Iron Temperature |
|---|---|
| Cotton | Medium-High |
| Linen | High |
| Polyester | Low-Medium |
| Silk | Low |
By meticulously folding and pressing your blanket binding, you’ll create a professional-looking finish that enhances the overall quality of your project. This groundwork ensures that the binding attaches smoothly and lies flat, giving your blanket a neat and tidy edge.
Hand-Stitching the Binding for an Invisible Finish
Hand-stitching offers the most discreet and polished finish for blanket binding, creating a nearly invisible seam. This method takes more time and patience than machine stitching, but the beautiful result is well worth the effort, especially for heirloom-quality blankets or those made with delicate fabrics. Here’s how to achieve a flawless hand-stitched finish.
Preparing Your Binding
Before you begin stitching, ensure your binding is prepped and ready. If using bias binding, fold it in half lengthwise and press it flat. If using pre-folded binding, simply press it open. You can lightly starch the binding to make it easier to work with and maintain a crisp edge.
Pinning the Binding
Carefully pin the binding to the raw edge of the blanket, ensuring the raw edges of the binding and blanket align. For straight edges, work in sections, pinning a few inches at a time. For curved edges, use more pins to ease the binding around the curves smoothly, avoiding any puckering or pulling.
Starting Your Stitch
Thread a needle with a thread that matches your binding or blanket fabric. Knot the end of the thread securely. Start stitching from the backside of the blanket, bringing the needle up through the edge of the binding and the blanket, hiding the knot within the layers.
The Slip Stitch
The slip stitch is the key to an invisible finish. Insert your needle into the fold of the binding directly opposite your starting point, taking only a few threads of the binding fabric. Then, slide the needle horizontally along the fold of the binding for about ¼ inch, emerging just beyond the initial entry point. Now, insert your needle diagonally across into the blanket, catching only a few threads of the blanket fabric directly below the binding’s edge. Repeat this sequence, working consistently along the length of the binding.
Working Around Corners
When approaching a corner, carefully miter the binding. Fold the binding back on itself at a 45-degree angle, creating a crisp point. Secure the mitered corner with a few extra stitches to hold it in place before continuing the slip stitch along the next edge.
Maintaining Even Tension
Consistent tension is crucial for a smooth and even finish. Avoid pulling the thread too tight, which can cause the binding to pucker. Aim for a gentle snugness that allows the binding to lie flat against the blanket. Practice on a scrap piece of fabric first to get a feel for the right tension.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your stitches are showing on the front side, you’re likely catching too much blanket fabric. Try taking smaller bites of fabric with your needle. If the binding is puckering, you may be pulling the thread too tight. Loosen your tension slightly and try again. If the binding is too loose, you may need to use more pins to secure it before stitching.
Tips for a Professional Finish
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Visible Stitches | Catch fewer blanket fibers with your needle; ensure the needle passes through the folded edge of the binding. |
| Puckering Binding | Loosen your thread tension. |
| Loose Binding | Use more pins to secure the binding before stitching. |
| Uneven Stitches | Maintain consistent spacing and tension throughout the stitching process. Practice on scraps. |
Using a beeswax-coated thread can help prevent tangling and make the stitching process smoother. Take breaks if your hands get tired. Consistent, patient work will yield the most professional-looking result. Remember, practice makes perfect! With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be creating beautifully bound blankets in no time.
Machine-Stitching the Binding for a Durable Edge
Machine stitching offers a fast and durable way to attach blanket binding, creating a polished and professional finish. It’s perfect for those who want a neat edge that can withstand regular use and washing.
Preparing Your Blanket and Binding
Before you begin stitching, ensure your blanket edges are neat and even. If necessary, trim any excess fabric. Press the blanket binding in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, to create a crease down the center. This fold line will serve as your guide during the attachment process.
Pinning the Binding
Start by aligning the raw edge of the unfolded binding with the raw edge of your blanket. Begin pinning in the middle of one side, working outwards to the corners. For a standard blanket, space your pins roughly every 2-3 inches. Accurate pinning is crucial for even binding application.
Starting the Stitch
Using a sewing machine with a standard straight stitch, begin stitching approximately ¼ inch from the folded edge of the binding. Backstitch a few stitches to secure the thread, then continue stitching along the pinned edge. Maintain a consistent ¼ inch seam allowance to ensure the binding folds neatly over the blanket edge.
Mitering the Corners
When you approach a corner, stop stitching about ¼ inch from the edge. With the needle down, lift the presser foot and pivot the blanket 90 degrees. Fold the binding upwards, creating a diagonal crease that aligns with the corner of the blanket. Then, fold the binding down over the blanket edge, aligning the raw edge of the binding with the next side of the blanket. Lower the presser foot and continue stitching along the next edge. This creates a neat mitered corner.
Finishing the Stitch
Once you’ve stitched all the way around the blanket, overlap the starting point of the binding by about an inch. Trim any excess binding, leaving a small overlap. Fold under the raw edge of the overlapping end and tuck it neatly under the starting edge of the binding. Stitch across the overlapped area to secure the end. This creates a seamless and professional finish.
Folding and Pressing the Binding
With the binding stitched in place, fold the binding over the raw edge of the blanket, covering the stitching line. Press the folded edge firmly with an iron to create a crisp and even finish. Ensure the folded edge of the binding extends slightly beyond the stitching line on the backside of the blanket.
Topstitching the Binding
For extra durability and a more polished look, topstitch the binding in place. You can use a matching or contrasting thread color, depending on your preference. Topstitch close to the folded edge of the binding, creating a straight and even line all the way around the blanket. This not only secures the binding but also adds a decorative element.
Choosing the Right Thread and Needle
Selecting the correct thread and needle is vital for a successful outcome. Use an all-purpose polyester thread that matches your binding fabric or your blanket. For most blankets, a universal size 80/12 needle is appropriate. However, if you are working with a thicker or denser blanket, consider using a heavier-duty needle, such as a size 90/14. For thinner blankets or delicate bindings, you could opt for a smaller needle such as a 70/10.
| Material | Needle Size | Thread Type |
|---|---|---|
| Lightweight Fleece | 70/10 or 80/12 | All-purpose Polyester |
| Medium-weight Cotton | 80/12 | All-purpose Polyester |
| Thick Wool | 90/14 | All-purpose Polyester or Heavy-duty Polyester |
Attaching Blanket Binding: A Comprehensive Guide
Attaching blanket binding is a crucial final step in creating a polished and professional-looking blanket. A well-applied binding not only adds a decorative element but also protects the raw edges of the blanket from fraying and wear. This guide outlines a straightforward method for achieving a neat and secure binding application.
Begin by preparing your binding. Whether you’re using pre-made bias tape or creating your own from fabric, ensure it’s the appropriate width for your blanket and that the edges are properly finished to prevent fraying. If using bias tape, open one fold. Pin the binding to the edge of the blanket, right sides together, starting at the center of one side. Work outwards, easing the binding around corners and curves as needed. For a neat finish, slightly stretch the binding along curved edges and ease it around corners to avoid bunching.
Stitch the binding to the blanket using a ¼ inch seam allowance. Once stitched, fold the binding over the raw edge of the blanket and to the back side. Securely pin the folded binding in place, ensuring a consistent overlap along the entire perimeter. You can either hand-stitch the binding in place using a blind stitch for an invisible finish or machine stitch it close to the folded edge for a quicker, though slightly more visible, result. Whichever method you choose, maintaining consistent tension is key to preventing puckering and ensuring a smooth, even finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Attaching Blanket Binding
What type of binding is best for blankets?
The best type of binding for a blanket depends on the blanket’s fabric and the desired finished look. Bias tape is a popular choice due to its flexibility, making it ideal for curved edges. It is readily available in pre-cut packages or can be easily made from fabric scraps. Straight-grain binding, cut on the fabric’s lengthwise grain, is another option and works well for straight edges. For a more decorative finish, consider using ribbon or a contrasting fabric.
How do you attach binding to a fleece blanket?
Fleece can be a bit tricky to work with due to its stretch. When attaching binding to a fleece blanket, use a walking foot on your sewing machine to help prevent the layers from shifting. A slightly wider binding, around 1 ½ to 2 inches, can also be helpful. You may also consider using a stretch stitch or a zigzag stitch to allow for the fleece’s flexibility.
Preventing Stretching While Attaching Binding:
To prevent stretching while attaching binding, especially with stretchy fabrics like fleece, avoid pulling the fabric taut. Pinning frequently and using a walking foot can help manage the fabric and ensure even feeding through the sewing machine.
How do you miter corners when attaching binding?
Mitering corners creates a neat and professional finish. Stop stitching the binding about ¼ inch from the corner. Fold the binding upwards at a 45-degree angle, then fold it down over itself, creating a diagonal fold. Pin in place and continue stitching the binding to the next edge, ensuring the mitered corner lies flat.
What stitch should I use to attach binding?
For machine stitching, a straight stitch close to the folded edge of the binding is common. A zigzag stitch can be used with stretchy fabrics to allow for flexibility. For hand-sewing, a blind stitch creates an invisible finish.