How to Apply Blanket Binding

Blanket binding is a classy way to finish a homemade baby blanket, throw or quilt. You can purchase blanket binding in a wide range of colors and widths. Specialty shops even offer blanket binding with ruffles. Blanket binding is easy to apply. Read on to learn how to apply blanket binding.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Blanket
• Blanket binding
• Pins
• Sewing machine
• Thread

1. Measure the edge of your blanket to determine how much blanket binding you need to purchase.

2. Go to the fabric store and make your selection.

3. Stitch the ends of two or more packages together--if you need that many--in a narrow seam to give you the length you need to apply. To reduce bulk as you apply the binding, make the seam on the diagonal.

4. Pin the binding into place. Start near a corner. Leave a bit of a tail to tuck under for a finished edge. As you pin, catch both the front and back edges of the blanket binding.

5. Miter the corners as you get to them. Pin along the straight edge until you come to the corner. Extend the binding past the corner far enough to make a diagonal fold. Then turn the corner. Turn the blanket over to make sure the corner looks correct. You may need to use a pin to tuck the extra hem tape into the mitered corner.

6. Continue pinning blanket binding in place until you complete all four sides. Tuck the beginning and ending edges together, and pin in place.

7. Sew the binding in place. You can sew with a straight stitch or you can use a decorative stitch. Just remember to keep the stitching as straight as possible. Also, be sure to catch both the front and back sides of the hem tape in the stitching.