I love hand binding! I think of it as sealing the love into the quilt at the end. I used to cut my binding at 2.5 inches, but I now cut it at 2.25 inches, and love the result I get. I love how we all use different measurements and techniques, to make our quilts unique.
I had done 3 inch binding for many years. That little bit extra makes an easier sewing. I do a LOT of quilts for Linus ( like 172 last year). Try 3” and you will like it!!!
I too although a beginner have started to make quilts for Linus, my first one wasn't good but the second terrible using 2 ½ inch but from now on after watching this video will be using 3inch.
I've been using 3" Since I started making quilts. However I don't sew it on at 1/4" it's more like 3/8's , because I wanted it to be more even on both sides and so far it has worked out great.
I love this tip! I like using 2.5" binding because I like my binding a bit chunkier than the 2.25" I have usually seen. I machine sew front and back too but usually when it gets flipped over, to the back or the front, one side is so much bigger than the other. I was wanting to try playing with the seam width so it was a bit better distributed, so you have given me a great place to start! Thx!
My mom always took a piece of heavy cardboard and would cut it in the shape of the binding bobbin, but bigger. She had all of her binding wrapped up like that. She has done it that way for over 50 years now. It is funny that people make these old things new again LOL
I do the same method when I sew bindings all on the machine, except I still do 2.5 inch width but just move my needle over all the way to the right when I sew it on the back. And then flip it over and sew. It looks exactly like yours. It was huge when I discovered doing it this way!
Omg, I just made a quilt and decided to try your 3" binding....I am floored. It is so much better than the 2.5", how can that be. I'm new to quilting and struggle with the 2.5" binding ( not the straightest on my sewing or cutting ) this makes it so much easier. Thank you for this tip.
I always use 3 inch binding because it's wider and easier for me to sew on my quilt. Thx...now I don't feel so bad for not using the 2.5 inch. You're the best...
I was taught to cut my binding strips 3” wide and machine stitch on the back wrap it around to the front then machine stitch it down. My quilts are meant to be used, loved and washed a lot and this really holds up. Anything that helps me create quilts more easily is great in my book! I live the binding bobbin!
This video popped up as I was searching for easy quilt binding. First, you are really pretty, with a good attitude, nice voice, and interesting presentation style. Second...BLESS YOU!!! YES to the wider binding! BIG hugs from your new subscriber!! 🤗🤗
@michelleswistak1389 I like to use decorative stitching as well, gives me a chance to play with all those “fancy” stitches on my machine that I may never otherwise try!❤
I’m trying to do this right now, but the decorative stitches aren’t coming out the same on the quilt binding. Have tried a sharp needle but the design is just different on the binding than even on multiple layers of other fabric. 😬
@@corinnebrieker9220 if you haven’t already, try adjusting your stitch length. My machine gets a little bit cranky if I don’t adjust the stitch length a little bit wider on binding. If I use the fancy stitches or do a closer together zigzag I usually have to loosen the tension just a little bit. If I don’t I get the birds nest on the bottom.
Oddly, I love cutting and binding. Cutting as it offers so many possibilities and binding as it's my final interaction on the quilt. People in my guild think I am nuts!
I am one someone that loves to sit down with a good movie on and hand stitch down the edge of binding. I have had people in my guild look at me as though I am mad for loving to sit and do this. I got this skill from my Great Grandmother who sewed everything by hand. My Great Grandmother and I would sit on the front porch hand stitching binding for hours while she told me stories when she was a girl in 1892. She is the one who inspired me to sew.
@@nancylowens9842 What lovely memories and what a blessing to have such memories. I have my great-aunt’s Bernina and I often think of her while I sew. Both my grandmothers were creative and one spent many hours with me sewing doll clothes and teaching me to crochet. I think when I create, I feel their hoy, along with my own.
I love hand sewing binding, I find it really relaxing to do it watching TV at night. I hate sewing binding on completely by machine. To begin with it was because I didn’t like the way it looked ( I wasn’t very good at it) but I just find it enjoyable to do it by hand and easier to deal with the bulk of the quilt.
Glad you ladies are physically able and have the time to quilt by hand. Up front she says it's for machine quilters, so just move on; you don't have to leave snarky comments.
@@SkyLynn-zb6ch Where is the snark in my comment? It’s actually due to a disability that I find sewing completely by machine difficult! Perhaps you need to take your own advice?
@@SkyLynn-zb6ch You are out of line. I, too like the way my binding looks if sewn on by hand to back. I can still appreciate a video that talks about using the machine only. I make nursing home and linus quilts and they request that we sew our bindings by machine. If everyone was alike, this would be a boring world.
We are all very different; as people and in the ways we make our quilts. I celebrate that! Two of us could make the same quilt using the same pattern, and the same colors - they would still be different. That's one of the beauties of this art. And some of us prefer machine binding, some hand binding. That's all good and as it should be.
I was sewing on a binding for one of my friends, I was having a hard time pulling it over far enough with her hanging sleeve on the back. That’s when I decided I was going to make all of my quilts with a 3” binding. So glad I did, I love it, it’s so much easier, I was surprised to see your video and you were doing the 3” binding. I’m with you, I’ll never go back to 2.5”’s. ❤
I have been cutting 2-3/4" binding, which has been a good choice for me; but I will try out 3" next time. Every little bit of "easy" is a good thing! Thank you!
I hate cutting but I love binding by hand! Ironically, the fact that I had no idea how to do the binding kept me from quilting for decades until UA-cam came along! That quilt binding spool sure is pretty!
I always bind with 3 inch binding too. Makes all the difference in the world. Another great tip? If you have a serger, serge the quilt edges before you bind. I longarm and finish professionally and this makes the edges lay much better.
I make utility quilt like my grandmother. She always wrapped the backing fabric over to the front, doubled it and stitched it down. If I feel fancy, I'l miter the quarters, but mostly I overlap the corners. I like to have the batting nearly as wide, then I roll it tightly and stitch it flat. Fast, easy, and functional.
I have used this method too. Yes is it great! I love playing with my binding too. I also use paper towel rolls to keep my binding from knotting up. But that acrylic keeper is super cute.
Yeah! Finally. I cannot wait to try this. I have tried to master sewing binding on and it is never straight. A seam across the back would not or will not bother me ❤ Thank you!
I sew my binding to the back by hand, but I have always used 2-5/8” or 2-3/4” wide binding. I want to have enough binding to easily cover the bobbin thread that shows from sewing the binding to the front. Sometimes I want to sew the binding on with a 3/8” seam, so I adjust the binding width to accommodate that. I also take into account the thickness of my batting. I keep samples of various widths of binding and test them on my quilt by pinning before I cut my binding strips. Loved this video.
I actually love binding. It’s my favorite thing to do and I get into the groove when I cut my fabric. I make my binding strip 2 1/4 inches I use stitch in the ditch and it comes out perfect.
@@ISeeStarsQuilting I think if I had to hand stitch the binding I would hate it lol I used to do 2.5 inches but for me it never came out looking nice. I came across a UA-camr that uses 2.25 tried it fell in love, but I loved it. Each of us quilters has their own way of doing things to make it their own. I love all the quilts you do I love your content, I always look forward to seeing your new videos
Hi Christen. Maybe this is what I need. I use to do decent binding no trouble, but now I have wet macular degeneration and the binding process is not going very well at all! Someone had suggested using 3" binding, but I didn't know how it would look. So, thanks for sharing! I hope it's the answer to my problem. Happy quilting!
I started using 3 inch binding years ago....the quilt police have never shown up at my house. No one ever even knew, but my quilts are just for home use, not for shows. Very good video!
I have been using this method for years but I always use 2.25 or 2.5 inch binding and it works beautifully. I have never thought of 3 inch. I guess it would depend on the style of quilt you are making. I wouldn't want to have my points cut off with the binding using wider binding if the quilt was a style without an added border. Thanks so much for your lovely channel. I enjoy watching it. 🥰
I sew my binding to the front of the quilt and use a 1/4" seam then I fold it over to the back and hand sew it down. Even with using a wider binding I have never cut off points on the top.
I recently added a 3 inch binding to a quilt per your instructions. LOVED IT😊😊. Best binding I've sewn . Will recommend this technique to my quilt guild. Thanks so much!
I'm on my 4th baby quilt, as the "greats" keep coming😊. I make patchworks, and always finish the edges the same way. Along the edges I just fold the patches in half towards the back, then fold a seam allowance and sew in place.. I sew as closely as possible to the existing stitching. It's fairly easy, looks neat, and cute with the border of 1/2 width patches on the back.
Thank you for this video. I started doing my binding 3" a while ago. The 2 1/2 was just so frustrating. I can't believe the difference but felt like I was inadequate and "breaking the rules". It is refreshing to know I am not alone. Thank you again. Looking forward to following you for more tips
I've been using wider bindings for a few years now and you are absolutely correct. It is much easier. I cut mine & sew it so that the front and back stitch lines are 1/8" onto the binding fabric, avoiding the random line on the back.
That's so odd to hear you say quilters don't like cutting & binding... I really enjoy both - especially hand-sewing binding but I do a lot more all machine binding now. I like to machine sew to the Front first then I can either machine or hand-sew to the back.
My mom and I both love binding. We machine sew to the front and then finish by hand. I like not being tied to the machine any more, and the quilt looks so nice finished.
Honestly thought this was going to be pointless but honestly…. I’m impressed. Just finished a quilt with 3 inch binding and I’m in love. I will NEVER go back to 2 ANYTHING inches.
Thanks for this idea of having a wider binding. I'm going to try it. Have to say I love the hand sewing and it looks so much niceron a quilt. You do need to fit some some slow sewing into your life if it's so busy. Really good for mental health to sit and hand sew slowly!
Thanks so much for explaining this! I just now finished binding a quilt and also had that stitch line below the binding. I will definitely be a 3 inch binding girl! May even 4. You are awesome!
I must be the odd one in the bunch, but I love binding. I attach my binding by machine, too, but I do love attaching the binding. I use 2 1/2 inch and it works perfectly for me, and I don’t find it difficult at all to do the binding. Might be bc I’ve been sewing garments for almost 60 years.
I don't mind binding, except occasional corner trouble like my latest binding that's just been half sewn on. I rather like hand tacking the binding down on the back. In a way, there's something Zen & almosy meditative abt it, if you can get into a rhythym doing it.
OMG!!!! I tried out this method and boy did it make a difference! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE , this! I will never go back to the other width again. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. I love your channel and all your tips. Thanks again. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Sometimes i just want to macine the binding, so this will really help. I am going to try it. But, honestly, the favorite part of quilting is hand sewing the binding on. It relaxes me. But i am retired and have lots of quiet time.
New quilter here! I use my backing fabric as binding as i think this is the most easiest to do! It nay not be the usual however it works for me and it looks amazing!
This is the first time I found your channel. I love to do binding by hand or machine. I will follow your recommendation and start using 3 inch wide binding. I have always been following the rule that the binding has to be the same width on both sides of the quilt. I do Ike how you use a straight stitch to attach the folded edge and it looks nice on the back with the quarter inch wide binding. I will look forward to see your other videos and I will let you know when I make a project for myself and use the 3 inch wide binding. Thank you so much for your easy and relaxing way you present things. You are a natural teacher and I will look forward to see all your videos.
I just did my first quilt using the backing to bind it. I didn't have to sew it on, I just kept 1" of backing to be able to do double half inch folds and sew it down on the front. I tried this because I didn't know if I had enough fabric to make a separate binding. I think it was pretty easy, used less fabric and the corners were perfectly mitered. I will try the 3" binding on a future project. TFS
Your way is my go to way. You described it 100 times better than I ever could. I think the original reason for binding was to keep the stuffing from falling out. I attended a lecture was in the smoky mountain national park and the lady demonstrated the whole process while she talked. She sandwiched old newspaper between large fabric chunks to make what I think of as the batting. She said they didn’t sew the middle together it was all loose. She said the fabric portion was outerwear that had gotten almost thread bare.
@@destrygraves I would love to attend any lecture on old quilt methods. I'm sure you could have described this method just fine. I learned to quilt when I was a little girl from 2 elderly Choctaw Indian sisters who would tie their quilts layers together with yarn. They used the back to bind the quilt and stitched it down by hand. Before binding, they had a giant wood frame that was suspended to stretch the layers and hold it at a height that women could all gather around and work on the quilt. I have tried numerous QAYG methods. I struggle with getting all of the layers together tightly so I can sew on a domestic machine and not have puckers or have the fabric shift. I refuse to send my quilts off to be quilted or buy a separate quilting machine. I may need to go back to old methods . I am fascinated with the frugalness of previous generations and what they were able to create from scraps and rags.
@@creativitybycarilyn6634 I would have loved to see the Choctaw sisters. I attended a 30 minute “talk” at the Oconalufte visitor center in North Carolina. I’m probably not spelling that correctly. It’s part of the Smoky Mountain National Park. All National Parks have what they call Junior Rangers. It’s ordinarily a 2-5 page booklet type thing that has pictures and fun facts plus questions that you find the answers to by reading the placards at different places. Additionally they will have a check list of 5-10 items to complete. It’s well known to be for kids aged 4-18ish. They turn it in, sign an oath to protect and preserve the National Parks and are given a plastic imitation Ranger badge. The Parks always have a free monthly newsletter that they hand out when you enter or at the visitor center. (also online). That has a list of all ranger led activities arranged by date, location, then time. Those activities are things like lectures, crafts, hikes. Depending on what location the list of things to complete will ask you to pick 2 or 5. I was in my late 40’s when I discovered that the Junior Ranger program actually is for all ages. There is a different booklet for non school aged people.
The one I attended was led by a Ranger who happened to be Cherokee. It was held on the porch of a little cabin. She had samples of early American quilts and of Cherokee versions. The living room type area had the squareish frame you referenced. It had a pulley system that allowed you to pull it up and out of the way when necessary. There was a patchwork quilt on the frame and anyone who wanted to could sit and quilt a bit. That was my first ever exposure to how things were done back in the day. It is the place where I first heard of disappearing 9 patches. She showed a sample that was made by a Cherokee grandmother and told a story of the grandmother learning of it from some lady’s that had learned it on a wagon train. She explained that the pioneers would exchange the small bits and pieces too small to be used when making clothing and squares from older clothing that was too worn to be serviceable. She said they didn’t have a lot of those scraps and they would use some of each type/color themselves and trade with any ladies they encountered along the way. This gave them a huge variety. The disappearing part of the 9 patch cleverly allowed them to make the much varied scraps into a more cohesive design. Depending on how they were arranged they could be controlled chaos or a distinctive pattern. She had small lap sized samples that were actually passed around so we could hold them, feel them, etc… It was easy to feel the loose stuffing. I do occasionally use other patterns but from that day the disappearing 9 patch (d9p) has been my go to.
Thank you Kristen, I have been struggling with binding. I've just made my first two queen size quilts and am ready to send them off to a long-armer. Never done that before. Nervous about that but they're too big for me to handle on my machine. I've done baby quilts from start to finish but not this size. Of the two, I made a matching pillow and struggled with the binding, so I ripped it out and ended up using a decorative machine stitch so now I'm worried about binding for my large quilts. I always thought that it was a big no no to see the extra line of stitching from the binding on the backside. I've been trying not to do that. Will definitely check out your tutorial video. Tx for the help. Love your spunk! Watching your from Ontario, Canada.
I love a 3" binding. It's so much easier to attach and the results are perfect. The extra half inch allows for much better coverage over a thick batting. My 2.5" bindings were a minor disaster. 3" all the way, every time for me.
I love your idea about making binding. I actually love binding because it's the last step before you are FINISHED!!!! ❤️ I am intrigued by the idea of 3" binding. I will try it on my next quilt as i already made the binding for my current quilt. Great tutorials BTW. Cheers! 😊
I use 1/4" seam allowance still, but you can experiment and make it a little wider if you like. I usually use the edge of my sewing foot to keep me straight on the fabric.
I am self taught, kind of. I made my first quilt and I did use a wider binding. It IS so much easier and (I think) looks much better. I love sewing the binding on, but I don't like cutting and I'm not very good at it!
I largely agree, but Different Strokes for Different Folks. I MAY try a small 3" binding to see the difference. I wrap my prep'd Binding around Toilet Paper Rolls to keep them neat & untangled. I end it w/ a Pin or Paper Clip.
Hi Christen. Wow...this binding idea of yours is a game changer!!! So grateful to you! I'm not a "modern" quilter, however I've subscribed because if you have something to say, I'm LISTENING!!! Hugs from the Rockies in Canada.
On the front of the binding when sewing it on, I stop just as the needle goes down into the binding fabric that crosses over. Just enough to hold it down while I lift the presser foot up and rotate the quilt.
I tried 3 inch binding once and I didn’t find it life changing but a left compensating foot for binding is life changing no matter what size binding you are using! Happy Quilting!
I never knew there was a "standard" size for binding. I vary it depending on the quilt. I just finished a quilt and put a 3/4" (!) binding on it (that's 4 5/8" cut strips, or 3 1/8" for single fold) and I LOVE the look, like another border on the edge. Thanks for the ideas for quick binding. I might try it, but I do enjoy hand-sewing binding on the back. It's theraputic. Like knitting. Great video!
You are so welcome. There are no rules, I think we all do what we like and what we think looks the best. We just all learn new things from each other. :)
Thanks for posting about 3 inch binding! I used to hide the fact that I used 3 inch binding! I won't hide that anymore! When I changed to 3 inches, my binding looked so much better & wasn't as stressful as 2 1/2.
I like the idea of 3 inch binding. Do you trim your quilt edge even with your other sandwich layers? Or do you leave a little batting to fill the space? Also, do you pull the binding tight to the front? or leave any "empty" fabric so the binding is thinner on the front? Great idea, thank you!
Thank you so much for sharing! I will definitely be using your technique on my first quilt that is ready for binding! I used 2.5" binding on placemats for practice and to say it was a struggle is an understatement!
I use three inch binding as well. Years ago when I started quilting I just couldn’t manage a 2 1/2 inch binding. It always looked wonky. The three inch works so much better for me. It’s true that it’s easier. Plus I like how the larger binding looks because it stands out more. I also sew the binding on the back first than top stitch on the front.
Omg…..I totally agree! I frequently use 3 inch and I love how much easier it is, but I also love the way it looks with that little bit extra. Thank you for this!
On small projects, table runners etc., I go the opposite way and use 1.5” strips to bind. Sew it in the back first, then fold it over on itself and stitch down on the front. Works for me and not as hard on my wrists.
Thank you for showing the BACK of your binding stitches. I have watched 100 videos of the 1/4 in run off to make perfect corners, but could find nothing to solve my problem of the stitches in the back not looking nice and uniformly straight! Sure the front looks good but I hated when for whatever reason I could not make it look uniform in the back and some spots would run off the edge. Why I wasn’t smart enough to make it a little bit wider!!!!???? I am going to run and bind the large mug rug I made last night and try this! Thanks again!!
Hello. I have a question. I usually machine stitch my binding to the front and hand stitch to the back, but to expedite the process, I am intrigued by your technique. For quilt tops where the piecing goes all the way to the edge (i.e. no borders) do you make any adjustment when trimming the quilt before binding so you don't bury any points of the piecing when wrapping the wider 3" binding to the front? Thank you!
I love the way you teach, it encourages me to do binding, which I struggle very much, looks very easy. Do you have a video on putting a cord in binding?
I struggle with binding especially in my corners. When I'm sewing and come to a corner my pressure foot pushes my corner out of wack and I can't get it to straighten back out especially when it's under the foot.Im going to try the 3 inch binding and see if that helps..I'll let ya know... 👍🏼
That’s nice and neat, well done. Can you tell us how much quilt edge you’re binding? Because the width you are enclosing in binding is the important thing to know. I presumably am trimming closer than you do, because I found the 2.5 “ too wide, and I’m happier with 2.25”. I do the stitching the same as you do. My big trouble is how not to stretch my edge and and get wavy binding. I stretch the binding a little to negate the effect of the sewing foot pressure stretching the quilt, but it’s tricky to know how much to do it. Do you have a solution to that problem please? I use my walking foot, so it’s not that. Thank you
I sew my quilt binding 1/4" from the edge of the quilt. I would suggest using the little sewing clips to help you mold your fabric around your quilt and remove them as you go. that might take away the stress of feeling like you have to pull it around so much.
I’m a visual learner and a beginning quilter. It would help to actually show your sewing on the binding.
I love hand binding! I think of it as sealing the love into the quilt at the end.
I used to cut my binding at 2.5 inches, but I now cut it at 2.25 inches, and love the result I get.
I love how we all use different measurements and techniques, to make our quilts unique.
I agree, we can all do what we love and still turns out beautiful.
I had done 3 inch binding for many years. That little bit extra makes an easier sewing. I do a LOT of quilts for Linus ( like 172 last year). Try 3” and you will like it!!!
I too although a beginner have started to make quilts for Linus, my first one wasn't good but the second terrible using 2 ½ inch but from now on after watching this video will be using 3inch.
I've been using 3" Since I started making quilts. However I don't sew it on at 1/4" it's more like 3/8's , because I wanted it to be more even on both sides and so far it has worked out great.
That is great. Thank you so much for sharing.
I love this tip! I like using 2.5" binding because I like my binding a bit chunkier than the 2.25" I have usually seen. I machine sew front and back too but usually when it gets flipped over, to the back or the front, one side is so much bigger than the other. I was wanting to try playing with the seam width so it was a bit better distributed, so you have given me a great place to start! Thx!
My mom always took a piece of heavy cardboard and would cut it in the shape of the binding bobbin, but bigger. She had all of her binding wrapped up like that. She has done it that way for over 50 years now. It is funny that people make these old things new again LOL
You are so right about that!
So true! 😂
3 inches!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yesssssssssssssssssss. My standard. So happy I found a member of my quilting tribe. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.
Wonderful!
I have been using 3” for my last 2 quilts! It makes such a difference!!! Yeah so glad you said 3” is better!!!❤❤❤
I am glad you like it.
I do the same method when I sew bindings all on the machine, except I still do 2.5 inch width but just move my needle over all the way to the right when I sew it on the back. And then flip it over and sew. It looks exactly like yours. It was huge when I discovered doing it this way!
Excellent tip. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing that.
Omg, I just made a quilt and decided to try your 3" binding....I am floored. It is so much better than the 2.5", how can that be. I'm new to quilting and struggle with the 2.5" binding ( not the straightest on my sewing or cutting ) this makes it so much easier. Thank you for this tip.
You are very welcome. The bigger the better here in Texas. lol
I did too yesterday! Much easier to use 3" instead of 2.5" !👏👏👏
I always use 3 inch binding because it's wider and easier for me to sew on my quilt. Thx...now I don't feel so bad for not using the 2.5 inch. You're the best...
You are so sweet Ann. 🥰
I was taught to cut my binding strips 3” wide and machine stitch on the back wrap it around to the front then machine stitch it down. My quilts are meant to be used, loved and washed a lot and this really holds up. Anything that helps me create quilts more easily is great in my book! I live the binding bobbin!
That is how I started to do my bindings too. 👍
I love that Rebecca.
3” binding has been my go to for a while now. So much easier. ❤
I agree.
Me too
This video popped up as I was searching for easy quilt binding. First, you are really pretty, with a good attitude, nice voice, and interesting presentation style. Second...BLESS YOU!!! YES to the wider binding! BIG hugs from your new subscriber!! 🤗🤗
Thank you so much! Glad you are here.
I use decorative stitches to attach my binding to the front of the quilt, so I don't mind it showing on the back.
@michelleswistak1389 I like to use decorative stitching as well, gives me a chance to play with all those “fancy” stitches on my machine that I may never otherwise try!❤
Great idea
I’m trying to do this right now, but the decorative stitches aren’t coming out the same on the quilt binding. Have tried a sharp needle but the design is just different on the binding than even on multiple layers of other fabric. 😬
@@corinnebrieker9220 if you haven’t already, try adjusting your stitch length. My machine gets a little bit cranky if I don’t adjust the stitch length a little bit wider on binding. If I use the fancy stitches or do a closer together zigzag I usually have to loosen the tension just a little bit. If I don’t I get the birds nest on the bottom.
@@corinnebrieker9220 do you mean they don't look like the picture or that the front and back are not the same?
Oddly, I love cutting and binding. Cutting as it offers so many possibilities and binding as it's my final interaction on the quilt. People in my guild think I am nuts!
Sonya, that is great you love those parts. We all have our favorites, it is great to enjoy what you do.
I love cutting and binding too! In fact, I love every step of constructing a quilt!!
I am one someone that loves to sit down with a good movie on and hand stitch down the edge of binding. I have had people in my guild look at me as though I am mad for loving to sit and do this. I got this skill from my Great Grandmother who sewed everything by hand. My Great Grandmother and I would sit on the front porch hand stitching binding for hours while she told me stories when she was a girl in 1892. She is the one who inspired me to sew.
@@nancylowens9842 What lovely memories and what a blessing to have such memories. I have my great-aunt’s Bernina and I often think of her while I sew. Both my grandmothers were creative and one spent many hours with me sewing doll clothes and teaching me to crochet. I think when I create, I feel their hoy, along with my own.
@@nancylowens9842 I love this story. I can picture it now.
I agree! I have been making my binding 3" for a long time. I'm 65 and it is just so much easier on my hands.
I love hand sewing binding, I find it really relaxing to do it watching TV at night. I hate sewing binding on completely by machine. To begin with it was because I didn’t like the way it looked ( I wasn’t very good at it) but I just find it enjoyable to do it by hand and easier to deal with the bulk of the quilt.
Agree!
Glad you ladies are physically able and have the time to quilt by hand. Up front she says it's for machine quilters, so just move on; you don't have to leave snarky comments.
@@SkyLynn-zb6ch Where is the snark in my comment? It’s actually due to a disability that I find sewing completely by machine difficult! Perhaps you need to take your own advice?
@@SkyLynn-zb6ch You are out of line. I, too like the way my binding looks if sewn on by hand to back. I can still appreciate a video that talks about using the machine only. I make nursing home and linus quilts and they request that we sew our bindings by machine. If everyone was alike, this would be a boring world.
We are all very different; as people and in the ways we make our quilts. I celebrate that! Two of us could make the same quilt using the same pattern, and the same colors - they would still be different. That's one of the beauties of this art. And some of us prefer machine binding, some hand binding. That's all good and as it should be.
I was sewing on a binding for one of my friends, I was having a hard time pulling it over far enough with her hanging sleeve on the back. That’s when I decided I was going to make all of my quilts with a 3” binding. So glad I did, I love it, it’s so much easier, I was surprised to see your video and you were doing the 3” binding. I’m with you, I’ll never go back to 2.5”’s. ❤
Yay! I am so happy to hear.
I have been cutting 2-3/4" binding, which has been a good choice for me; but I will try out 3" next time. Every little bit of "easy" is a good thing! Thank you!
Sounds great!
I hate cutting but I love binding by hand! Ironically, the fact that I had no idea how to do the binding kept me from quilting for decades until UA-cam came along! That quilt binding spool sure is pretty!
OH I hate to hear it kept you from quilting, but I am so glad you are here doing it now. 🥰
@@ISeeStarsQuilting so much yet to learn ❤
I always bind with 3 inch binding too. Makes all the difference in the world. Another great tip? If you have a serger, serge the quilt edges before you bind. I longarm and finish professionally and this makes the edges lay much better.
Thank you for this, that is great!!!
This!!
I make utility quilt like my grandmother. She always wrapped the backing fabric over to the front, doubled it and stitched it down. If I feel fancy, I'l miter the quarters, but mostly I overlap the corners. I like to have the batting nearly as wide, then I roll it tightly and stitch it flat. Fast, easy, and functional.
That's a great idea!
I have used this method too. Yes is it great! I love playing with my binding too. I also use paper towel rolls to keep my binding from knotting up. But that acrylic keeper is super cute.
Yeah! Finally. I cannot wait to try this. I have tried to master sewing binding on and it is never straight. A seam across the back would not or will not bother me ❤ Thank you!
I’m so happy for you! Happy sewing!
I;ve always done 3 inch binding strips, makes a lot of sense since it has to wrap around the thickness of whole quilt.
I sew my binding to the back by hand, but I have always used 2-5/8” or 2-3/4” wide binding. I want to have enough binding to easily cover the bobbin thread that shows from sewing the binding to the front. Sometimes I want to sew the binding on with a 3/8” seam, so I adjust the binding width to accommodate that. I also take into account the thickness of my batting. I keep samples of various widths of binding and test them on my quilt by pinning before I cut my binding strips. Loved this video.
Great idea as well, thank you Carol!
I actually love binding. It’s my favorite thing to do and I get into the groove when I cut my fabric. I make my binding strip 2 1/4 inches I use stitch in the ditch and it comes out perfect.
That is wonderful!
@@ISeeStarsQuilting I think if I had to hand stitch the binding I would hate it lol I used to do 2.5 inches but for me it never came out looking nice. I came across a UA-camr that uses 2.25 tried it fell in love, but I loved it. Each of us quilters has their own way of doing things to make it their own. I love all the quilts you do I love your content, I always look forward to seeing your new videos
Hi Christen. Maybe this is what I need. I use to do decent binding no trouble, but now I have wet macular degeneration and the binding process is not going very well at all! Someone had suggested using 3" binding, but I didn't know how it would look. So, thanks for sharing! I hope it's the answer to my problem. Happy quilting!
I hope you can give it a try and love it also.
I started using 3 inch binding years ago....the quilt police have never shown up at my house. No one ever even knew, but my quilts are just for home use, not for shows. Very good video!
I love that you are using what works for you!
I have been using this method for years but I always use 2.25 or 2.5 inch binding and it works beautifully. I have never thought of 3 inch. I guess it would depend on the style of quilt you are making. I wouldn't want to have my points cut off with the binding using wider binding if the quilt was a style without an added border. Thanks so much for your lovely channel. I enjoy watching it. 🥰
You are so welcome!
I sew my binding to the front of the quilt and use a 1/4" seam then I fold it over to the back and hand sew it down. Even with using a wider binding I have never cut off points on the top.
I recently added a 3 inch binding to a quilt per your instructions. LOVED IT😊😊. Best binding I've sewn . Will recommend this technique to my quilt guild. Thanks so much!
Yay, that is exciting.
Good idea. I machine bind all my quilts usually using the flange binding and they look fabulous. Been doing this way for 10 years. So much easier.
YAY! That is so great to hear.
I'm on my 4th baby quilt, as the "greats" keep coming😊. I make patchworks, and always finish the edges the same way. Along the edges I just fold the patches in half towards the back, then fold a seam allowance and sew in place.. I sew as closely as possible to the existing stitching. It's fairly easy, looks neat, and cute with the border of 1/2 width patches on the back.
It sounds like you've found a great way to finish your quilt edges!
Thank you for this video. I started doing my binding 3" a while ago. The 2 1/2 was just so frustrating. I can't believe the difference but felt like I was inadequate and "breaking the rules". It is refreshing to know I am not alone. Thank you again. Looking forward to following you for more tips
Glad it was helpful! It's great to do what feels good and makes it more enjoyable.
I've been using wider bindings for a few years now and you are absolutely correct. It is much easier. I cut mine & sew it so that the front and back stitch lines are 1/8" onto the binding fabric, avoiding the random line on the back.
That is a great tip! Thank you for sharing
That's so odd to hear you say quilters don't like cutting & binding... I really enjoy both - especially hand-sewing binding but I do a lot more all machine binding now. I like to machine sew to the Front first then I can either machine or hand-sew to the back.
I think there are quilters that love many things, and those that don't. That comes with any hobby really. We all have our things that we really enjoy.
I’ve always used 3 inch bindings and love the hand stitching the quilt. It’s the corners that get me every time.
You are probably the only one. 😂
My mom and I both love binding. We machine sew to the front and then finish by hand. I like not being tied to the machine any more, and the quilt looks so nice finished.
Me too, throw some ironing in and I’m a happy camper!
Honestly thought this was going to be pointless but honestly…. I’m impressed.
Just finished a quilt with 3 inch binding and I’m in love. I will NEVER go back to 2 ANYTHING inches.
I am so glad you liked it!
@@ISeeStarsQuilting thanks for posting, honestly would never have imagined that tiny little tip would have changed everything !! haha. it's great :D
Yes but why is it easier?
@@livinthedream4479 no idea. But it just is. Give it a try
Will definitely try 3” as when I did 2.5 I wasn’t happy with the results. Thank you!
You got this!
Thanks for this idea of having a wider binding. I'm going to try it. Have to say I love the hand sewing and it looks so much niceron a quilt. You do need to fit some some slow sewing into your life if it's so busy. Really good for mental health to sit and hand sew slowly!
Thank you for that, I'll give it a try.
Thanks so much for explaining this! I just now finished binding a quilt and also had that stitch line below the binding. I will definitely be a 3 inch binding girl! May even 4. You are awesome!
Glad it was helpful!
I must be the odd one in the bunch, but I love binding. I attach my binding by machine, too, but I do love attaching the binding. I use 2 1/2 inch and it works perfectly for me, and I don’t find it difficult at all to do the binding. Might be bc I’ve been sewing garments for almost 60 years.
I love it!
I don't mind binding, except occasional corner trouble like my latest binding that's just been half sewn on. I rather like hand tacking the binding down on the back. In a way, there's something Zen & almosy meditative abt it, if you can get into a rhythym doing it.
Same here!! I use 2" binding because I sew the binding on the back first, and then fold it over to the front and stitch-in-the-ditch.
@ that’s how I do it, too. looks perfect every time.
OMG!!!! I tried out this method and boy did it make a difference! I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE , this! I will never go back to the other width again. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. I love your channel and all your tips. Thanks again. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
You are so welcome! I am glad you tried it and loved it.
Sometimes i just want to macine the binding, so this will really help. I am going to try it. But, honestly, the favorite part of quilting is hand sewing the binding on. It relaxes me. But i am retired and have lots of quiet time.
That is so great it relaxes you. 😍
New quilter here! I use my backing fabric as binding as i think this is the most easiest to do! It nay not be the usual however it works for me and it looks amazing!
Thanks for sharing!
I'm a novice, I was told 2 inches for binding. This is what I was thinking!!! Thank you. This video made me a subscriber 😊
You are so welcome! There are no sewing police, let's do what is best for us.
I always cut my binding 3 inches it is so much easier, great tutorial!
I am so glad you like it!
Thank you for showing the up close views of the back. My idol, Eleanor Burns, always taught 3 inch binding. ❤❤❤
You are very welcome!
Wow have books by Eleanor..never found mention of 3 inch binding..will go looking back..thanks.. 🇨🇦
Thank you for this tutorial. I always used 2 1/4" binding, and always struggled with the corners. Now I know why.
I am so glad it was helpful!
What a difference a 1/2 inch makes on the binding! Love this tip. Such a simple adaptation to make life easier.
I am glad you found it helpful.
I do the 3" binding and have begun to appreciate the binding process. It means I am close to celebrating another project I can be proud of!❤
Wonderful!
This is the first time I found your channel. I love to do binding by hand or machine. I will follow your recommendation and start using 3 inch wide binding. I have always been following the rule that the binding has to be the same width on both sides of the quilt. I do Ike how you use a straight stitch to attach the folded edge and it looks nice on the back with the quarter inch wide binding.
I will look forward to see your other videos and I will let you know when I make a project for myself and use the 3 inch wide binding.
Thank you so much for your easy and relaxing way you present things. You are a natural teacher and I will look forward to see all your videos.
You are so kind Nancy! Thank you for watching and I can't wait to hear how it goes for you.
I just did my first quilt using the backing to bind it. I didn't have to sew it on, I just kept 1" of backing to be able to do double half inch folds and sew it down on the front. I tried this because I didn't know if I had enough fabric to make a separate binding. I think it was pretty easy, used less fabric and the corners were perfectly mitered. I will try the 3" binding on a future project. TFS
Your way is my go to way. You described it 100 times better than I ever could. I think the original reason for binding was to keep the stuffing from falling out. I attended a lecture was in the smoky mountain national park and the lady demonstrated the whole process while she talked. She sandwiched old newspaper between large fabric chunks to make what I think of as the batting. She said they didn’t sew the middle together it was all loose. She said the fabric portion was outerwear that had gotten almost thread bare.
Thank you for sharing this as well!
@@destrygraves I would love to attend any lecture on old quilt methods. I'm sure you could have described this method just fine. I learned to quilt when I was a little girl from 2 elderly Choctaw Indian sisters who would tie their quilts layers together with yarn. They used the back to bind the quilt and stitched it down by hand. Before binding, they had a giant wood frame that was suspended to stretch the layers and hold it at a height that women could all gather around and work on the quilt. I have tried numerous QAYG methods. I struggle with getting all of the layers together tightly so I can sew on a domestic machine and not have puckers or have the fabric shift. I refuse to send my quilts off to be quilted or buy a separate quilting machine. I may need to go back to old methods . I am fascinated with the frugalness of previous generations and what they were able to create from scraps and rags.
@@creativitybycarilyn6634 I would have loved to see the Choctaw sisters. I attended a 30 minute “talk” at the Oconalufte visitor center in North Carolina. I’m probably not spelling that correctly. It’s part of the Smoky Mountain National Park. All National Parks have what they call Junior Rangers. It’s ordinarily a 2-5 page booklet type thing that has pictures and fun facts plus questions that you find the answers to by reading the placards at different places. Additionally they will have a check list of 5-10 items to complete. It’s well known to be for kids aged 4-18ish. They turn it in, sign an oath to protect and preserve the National Parks and are given a plastic imitation Ranger badge. The Parks always have a free monthly newsletter that they hand out when you enter or at the visitor center. (also online). That has a list of all ranger led activities arranged by date, location, then time. Those activities are things like lectures, crafts, hikes. Depending on what location the list of things to complete will ask you to pick 2 or 5. I was in my late 40’s when I discovered that the Junior Ranger program actually is for all ages. There is a different booklet for non school aged people.
The one I attended was led by a Ranger who happened to be Cherokee. It was held on the porch of a little cabin. She had samples of early American quilts and of Cherokee versions. The living room type area had the squareish frame you referenced. It had a pulley system that allowed you to pull it up and out of the way when necessary. There was a patchwork quilt on the frame and anyone who wanted to could sit and quilt a bit. That was my first ever exposure to how things were done back in the day. It is the place where I first heard of disappearing 9 patches. She showed a sample that was made by a Cherokee grandmother and told a story of the grandmother learning of it from some lady’s that had learned it on a wagon train. She explained that the pioneers would exchange the small bits and pieces too small to be used when making clothing and squares from older clothing that was too worn to be serviceable. She said they didn’t have a lot of those scraps and they would use some of each type/color themselves and trade with any ladies they encountered along the way. This gave them a huge variety. The disappearing part of the 9 patch cleverly allowed them to make the much varied scraps into a more cohesive design. Depending on how they were arranged they could be controlled chaos or a distinctive pattern. She had small lap sized samples that were actually passed around so we could hold them, feel them, etc… It was easy to feel the loose stuffing. I do occasionally use other patterns but from that day the disappearing 9 patch (d9p) has been my go to.
I tried this! My binding came out fabulous. Thank you so much!!!!
Wonderful! I am so glad it was helpful.
I tried a faux flange binding and love how it goes on by machine. Game changer!
Oh neat!
Enjoying the replay again ❤
Thank you Kristen, I have been struggling with binding. I've just made my first two queen size quilts and am ready to send them off to a long-armer. Never done that before. Nervous about that but they're too big for me to handle on my machine. I've done baby quilts from start to finish but not this size. Of the two, I made a matching pillow and struggled with the binding, so I ripped it out and ended up using a decorative machine stitch so now I'm worried about binding for my large quilts. I always thought that it was a big no no to see the extra line of stitching from the binding on the backside. I've been trying not to do that. Will definitely check out your tutorial video. Tx for the help. Love your spunk! Watching your from Ontario, Canada.
Thank you so much for watching my friend. I'm excited for you, they will come back looking great.
I have tried doing 3 inch binding and it is really easier and looks nice.
I thinks so too.
3” binding is such a great change! Thanks for sharing this tip!
Been doin it for yrs!
You are very welcome.
I love a 3" binding. It's so much easier to attach and the results are perfect. The extra half inch allows for much better coverage over a thick batting. My 2.5" bindings were a minor disaster.
3" all the way, every time for me.
YAHOO!!
I love your idea about making binding. I actually love binding because it's the last step before you are FINISHED!!!! ❤️ I am intrigued by the idea of 3" binding. I will try it on my next quilt as i already made the binding for my current quilt. Great tutorials BTW. Cheers! 😊
You are so welcome!
I've used three inch binding for a long time because it is easier for me to put on the quilts I've made. It is easier to wrap to the back for me.😊
I agree with you.
I have used this method also, but I have learned not to iron the binding in half, but fold as I attach it. Cuts down even more time.
Thank you for sharing.
I love, love, love this post! Hind binding is too hard for my fingers now and 3” looks like both sides will look perfect!! Thank you!!!
You are most welcome.
do you still sew the binding at 1/4 inch?
Do you still use the 1/4” seam allowance or bump it up??
I use 1/4" seam allowance still, but you can experiment and make it a little wider if you like. I usually use the edge of my sewing foot to keep me straight on the fabric.
Do you use a standard quarter inch scene when sewing on the front and the back?
I was also wondering what measurement she uses.
I use a 1/4" on the back and then pull around to the front to where it fits snuggly over the edge of the quilt. 🤠
I am self taught, kind of. I made my first quilt and I did use a wider binding. It IS so much easier and (I think) looks much better. I love sewing the binding on, but I don't like cutting and I'm not very good at it!
I am happy to hear you enjoy sewing the binding on!
If making a flange binding, what is your ratio to come out to 3” binding once stitched together?
I do the 3 1/2 binding I love how it frames the quilt. Thanks for all the ideas 💡
You are so welcome!
I prefer videos without padding and for presenters to get to the heart of the demo quicker. I didn’t get through it sorry.
I largely agree, but Different Strokes for Different Folks. I MAY try a small 3" binding to see the difference. I wrap my prep'd Binding around Toilet Paper Rolls to keep them neat & untangled. I end it w/ a Pin or Paper Clip.
I feel the same. I’m already frustrating trying to figure something out and having to FF through the video to find out the instruction. 😒
Give me a break, show a little gratitude!!
Yeah, this is basically a 13 minute advertisement for her class - no helpful tips...
@@karenmoore2669 Well I suppose the tip IS for the 3 inch binding (vs. 2.5" binding, the common quilters' standard).
@ Hi Christen. I'm going to try the 3" binding after I finish binding 5 quilts. Not my favorite chore but getting better.
That is so exciting! You got this. 😍
Thank you so much!!!!!! You are my kind of quilter!!!!
You are very welcome!
Thanks, will try the 3" binding.
I hope it works out for you! Let me know what you think
I’m confused. Could we have a sample of doing both ways and the difference besides the size? TIA
Yes, that was my thought. Why didn’t she show an example just didn’t make any sense
I will work on that.
@@ISeeStarsQuilting was wondering if you made a video on the difference in the size of binding? Thanks
I am going to try this larger strip!! Thanks for the tip! I also dislike binding🤣🤣 this is why I have a stack of about 10 quilts that need bindings!!
You got this Kat!
Love, love, love this method. Thanx.
I love cutting & enjoy machine binding. Ive never tried 3" binding, but i will def try it now. Thank you💜
You are so welcome!
I love your tutorial , it makes perfect sense. Thank you. But....please send me a quilting fairy asap. 😂 God Bless You ! ❤
Awe thanks so much!!! I would send one asap!!
Hi Christen. Wow...this binding idea of yours is a game changer!!! So grateful to you! I'm not a "modern" quilter, however I've subscribed because if you have something to say, I'm LISTENING!!! Hugs from the Rockies in Canada.
Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching, that means so much.
Thanks for video. I did not see a coupon code nor did I see a link for the binding acrylic winder.
Thank you! I will certainly try this on my current quilt. My corners just don’t lay flat and crisp.
Wonderful!
Great and thank you I’m going to try this out on my lap quilt.
Wonderful!
Could you use this technique for binding on bags? I am going to do this for my next quilt. Thank you so much
Oh absolutely! You could even do a bold choice like a black and white stripe and make it chunky
Awesome!! Thank you
I have tried the 3" binding.
How far from the corner on the front do you stop. Back would be the 1/4 inch but what about the front using the 3" binding?
On the front of the binding when sewing it on, I stop just as the needle goes down into the binding fabric that crosses over. Just enough to hold it down while I lift the presser foot up and rotate the quilt.
I tried 3 inch binding once and I didn’t find it life changing but a left compensating foot for binding is life changing no matter what size binding you are using! Happy Quilting!
I agree with you I don’t see what the benefit is, and I also have left and right compensating feet for my Juki
I never knew there was a "standard" size for binding. I vary it depending on the quilt. I just finished a quilt and put a 3/4" (!) binding on it (that's 4 5/8" cut strips, or 3 1/8" for single fold) and I LOVE the look, like another border on the edge. Thanks for the ideas for quick binding. I might try it, but I do enjoy hand-sewing binding on the back. It's theraputic. Like knitting. Great video!
You are so welcome. There are no rules, I think we all do what we like and what we think looks the best. We just all learn new things from each other. :)
Thanks for posting about 3 inch binding! I used to hide the fact that I used 3 inch binding! I won't hide that anymore! When I changed to 3 inches, my binding looked so much better & wasn't as stressful as 2 1/2.
Oh no not hide it, there is nothing wrong with it at all. I am glad you do it.
I like the idea of 3 inch binding. Do you trim your quilt edge even with your other sandwich layers? Or do you leave a little batting to fill the space? Also, do you pull the binding tight to the front? or leave any "empty" fabric so the binding is thinner on the front? Great idea, thank you!
Thank you so much for sharing! I will definitely be using your technique on my first quilt that is ready for binding! I used 2.5" binding on placemats for practice and to say it was a struggle is an understatement!
That is so wonderful to hear.
I use three inch binding as well. Years ago when I started quilting I just couldn’t manage a 2 1/2 inch binding. It always looked wonky. The three inch works so much better for me. It’s true that it’s easier. Plus I like how the larger binding looks because it stands out more. I also sew the binding on the back first than top stitch on the front.
Thank you for sharing that. I love the look also.
Omg…..I totally agree! I frequently use 3 inch and I love how much easier it is, but I also love the way it looks with that little bit extra. Thank you for this!
You are so welcome!
On small projects, table runners etc., I go the opposite way and use 1.5” strips to bind. Sew it in the back first, then fold it over on itself and stitch down on the front. Works for me and not as hard on my wrists.
Thank you for showing the BACK of your binding stitches. I have watched 100 videos of the 1/4 in run off to make perfect corners, but could find nothing to solve my problem of the stitches in the back not looking nice and uniformly straight! Sure the front looks good but I hated when for whatever reason I could not make it look uniform in the back and some spots would run off the edge. Why I wasn’t smart enough to make it a little bit wider!!!!???? I am going to run and bind the large mug rug I made last night and try this! Thanks again!!
You are welcome. I hope it helps.
I sew binding by machine as well. I think it holds up better
Hello. I have a question. I usually machine stitch my binding to the front and hand stitch to the back, but to expedite the process, I am intrigued by your technique. For quilt tops where the piecing goes all the way to the edge (i.e. no borders) do you make any adjustment when trimming the quilt before binding so you don't bury any points of the piecing when wrapping the wider 3" binding to the front? Thank you!
I love the way you teach, it encourages me to do binding, which I struggle very much, looks very easy. Do you have a video on putting a cord in binding?
Not yet!
I struggle with binding especially in my corners. When I'm sewing and come to a corner my pressure foot pushes my corner out of wack and I can't get it to straighten back out especially when it's under the foot.Im going to try the 3 inch binding and see if that helps..I'll let ya know... 👍🏼
That sounds great, you can do it. Let me know.
Thanks for all your tips on binding.
That’s nice and neat, well done. Can you tell us how much quilt edge you’re binding? Because the width you are enclosing in binding is the important thing to know. I presumably am trimming closer than you do, because I found the 2.5 “ too wide, and I’m happier with 2.25”. I do the stitching the same as you do.
My big trouble is how not to stretch my edge and and get wavy binding. I stretch the binding a little to negate the effect of the sewing foot pressure stretching the quilt, but it’s tricky to know how much to do it. Do you have a solution to that problem please? I use my walking foot, so it’s not that. Thank you
I sew my quilt binding 1/4" from the edge of the quilt. I would suggest using the little sewing clips to help you mold your fabric around your quilt and remove them as you go. that might take away the stress of feeling like you have to pull it around so much.