How to Finish the Edge of a Blanket
The self-binding technique is one of the easiest methods used to finish blankets. This method uses the backing material of the blanket as its binding. The backing is folded over the top material and sewn to the front of the blanket to create a simple edge. With a few simple adjustments, you can create the finish binding width that you desire. This method eliminates the need to purchase or cut extra material into binding strips because the binding is already attached to your project.
Things You'll Need
- Blanket
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Fabric pencil
- Batting (optional)
- Scissors
- Iron
- Pins
- Sewing machine
Instructions
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1
Lay your blanket faceup on a flat surface and smooth out all wrinkles.
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2
Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure 1/4 inch inward from the edge of the top material. Mark with a fabric pencil. Continue to measure and mark around all edges of the blanket top until you have drawn a 1/4 inch seam line. This line is where the backing will be attached.
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3
Trim the batting with scissors so it is even with the edge of the top material. You only need do this if you have included a layer of batting between the top and backing material of your blanket.
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4
Calculate the measurement for your backing material by doubling the width that the finished border will be and adding 1/4 inch. For a 1/2 inch border, you will cut your backing material to 1 1/4 inches from the marked seam line. Trim the blanket backing according to your calculations.
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5
Fold the backing material in each corner until the fabric point meets the corner of the seam line. Press flat with a hot iron.
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Unfold the pressed corners and cut along the pressed edge to remove the extra material.
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Fold the edge of the backing material inward on itself 1/4 inch. Wrong sides should be together. Press with an iron. Continue to fold and press, until there is a 1/4-inch edge along all sides and corners of the backing material.
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8
Starting at a corner, fold the backing material over the blanket until it is lined up with the seam line. Pin in place. Repeat this process until all corners are pinned in place.
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9
Fold the backing material along each straight edge inward over the top of the blanket in the same manner as the corners. Once the binding is matched with the seam line, pin it in place.
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10
Sew close to the edge of the binding with a sewing machine. Sew slowly to ensure straight lines. Remove pins as you come to them. Clip all loose threads when done.
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Tips & Warnings
This method creates edging from a single layer of material, which may wear out quickly on blankets that undergo heavy usage.
References
- Photo Credit bolts of fabric image by Scott Williams from Fotolia.com
