How to Make Self-Binding Fabric

By using fusible web, you can bind fabric without a sewing machine.

You can make a hem, create your own iron on patches or complete entire sewing projects without sewing at all. You can convert nearly any fabric into self-binding fabric by applying fusible web to the back of the fabric. Fusible web comes in tapes of varying width and in sheets of varying size. These instructions will guide you through creating a large piece of self-binding fabric using a sheet of fusible web. If you want to make a hem or join fabric in a linear fashion, use the tape form of fusible web.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Ruler
• Sheet of fusible web
• Pencils
• Sharp scissors
• Clothes iron
• Ironing board

Instructions

1. Cut the fabric into the size and shape desired for binding. For instance, if you want to create a self-binding, 5-inch, circle shaped patch, then cut a 5-inch-diameter circle out of the fabric.

2. Set the heat on the iron to a temperature appropriate for the fabric. Do not add any water to the iron.

3. Place the fabric cutout with wrong side facing up on a smooth work surface. Place a sheet of fusible web on top of the fabric with the paper backed side of the fusible web facing up. The fusible web is semitransparent, so you will be able to see the fabric cutout through the fusible web.

4. Use the pencil to trace the edges of the fabric cutout to the fusible web.

5. Use the scissors to cut the traced pattern out of the fusible web. Leave a 1/4-inch border all the way around the traced pattern.

6. Place the fabric cutout on the ironing board with the wrong side facing up. Place the fusible web cutout centered on top of the fabric cutout with the paper side facing up. Use the iron to press the fusible web to the fabric. Press for approximately 30 seconds. More or less time may be required depending on the fabric type. Allow the fabric to cool completely.

7. Use sharp scissors trim the fusible web exactly along the edge of the fabric cutout. Use short and precise cuts to prevent the fabric from fraying. You now have a piece of self-binding fabric that can be stored for future use. When ready to use it, peel off the paper backing and use an iron to press it onto another piece of fabric.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have frayed edges on your cutout, sharpen your scissors and carefully trim over the edges again.

• Keep the iron and scissors out of the reach of children.

References

• The Warm Company: "Steam-A-Seam"
• Patchwork and Quilting: "Fusible Web Applique"