Binding a Flannel Quilt

Create a frayed-edge quilt for a soft, natural edging.

The binding of a quilt can significantly modify its overall appearance. You can bind the completed quilt with an outer layer of ribbon or a double-fold binding tape for a smooth and sleek outer edge, or bind the quilt with strips of the same flannel fabric. For a raggedy flannel quilt, forgo on the neat binding finish and make a frayed edge from the flannel all the way around.

Things You'll Need

• 2-inch-wide ribbon or double-fold binding tape
• Flannel fabric (optional)
• Iron
• Straight pins
• Sewing machine
• Fray stop treatment

Instructions

Ribbon, Binding Tape or Flannel Edge

1. Measure each side of the quilt. Cut one piece of the tape or ribbon for each side. When using flannel fabric, make each strip 1 1/2 inches wide. Fold 1/4-inch of the long edges of the flannel over and sew to create smooth binding edges.

2. Cut each end of the tape or ribbon on a 45-degree angle. When the ribbon or tape is attached to the quilt, the angled edges will provide clean, mitered corners.

3. Fold the ribbon in half lengthwise and iron to crease. You do not need to do this when using binding tape because it comes already folded.

4. Slide one edge of the quilt into the corresponding ribbon or tape and insert straight pins along the length. Turn the quilt and repeat until all strips are pinned to the quilt.

5. Sew a running stitch down each strip. Do not sew near the fold. Sew approximately 1/4 inch away from the outer edge of the strip. Sew the mitered corners to the quilt as well.

Frayed Edge

1. Lay the quilt on your work surface with the good side facing up.

2. Measure about 3/4 inch inward from each edge of the quilt and draw a line with a wash-off fabric pen.

3. Sew a running stitch along the lines, all the way around the quilt. This provides a new outer seam so you can create the frayed edges.

4. Make 1/2-inch-long slits all the way along each side. Make one slit every 1/2 inch for a gently frayed edge, or every 1/4-inch for a raggedy frayed edge.

5. Paint a little bit of fray stop treatment on each of the cut edges to keep the flannel from unraveling. If you prefer, forgo on the treatment and let the flannel fray up to the seam line.

Tips & Warnings

• The flannel will shrink and pull on the stitches when washed for the first time after sewing the quilt together. Wash the flannel fabric before making the quilt.

References

• "Borders, Bindings & Edges: The Art of Finishing Your Quilt"; Sally Collins; 2004