How to Finish a Quilt Edge With Self Binding

Self-binding is an easy and economical way to finish a quilt.

Self-binding refers to the technique of wrapping the fabric at the back of a quilt sandwich -- top, batting, backing fabric -- around the raw edges at the ends of the quilt and sewing it down on the front side. This saves time and fabric. However, the edges of the quilt are the most frequently touched parts of a quilt and the binding wears faster than other areas. So, self-binding should only be used on wall hangings and quilts that won't be used much.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Ruler
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Pins

Instructions

1. Turn the quilt over to the back side and smooth out the backing fabric, pulling it gently to keep it taut. Pin the fabric close the edges of the quilt. Turn the quilt over to the front side.

2. Square up the edges of the quilt and trim the batting to within 1/4 inch of the quilt edge. Be careful not to cut the backing fabric during this step.

3. Trim the backing fabric, using a ruler to get a straight edge. Trim to within 1 inch of the quilt edge. If you want the binding to be wider, leave more batting at the edges of your quilt, and trim the backing fabric so it is wider.

4. Fold the raw edge of the backing fabric under and finger press into place. Pin the backing fabric to the front side of the quilt, keeping the self-binding at a consistent width.

5. Adjust the corners, if necessary, and sew the binding into place with a blind hand stitch or by a zig-zag or decorative machine stitch.