The Difference Between Quilt Binding & Blanket Binding

Quilt binding is narrower than blanket binding

A quilt is a blanket, sort of, so it's easy for the novice seamstress to be confused about the differences between quilt binding and blanket binding. Both are long strips of fabric cut on the bias (diagonally) and folded under along each side. Both are used to finish the edges of large, flat things that go on a bed. And that is where the similarity between quilt binding and blanket binding ends.

Width

Quilt binding is approximately 2 to 2 1/2 inches wide when unfolded. Blanket binding is wider, and can be as wide as 4 1/2 inches when unfolded. Blankets are thicker than quilts, which explains the difference in binding widths.

Fabric

Blanket binding, at least commercial blanket binding, is 100 percent polyester, and is satiny in texture -- exactly like the trim at the head and foot of blankets purchased in a store. Quilt binding is either 100 percent cotton or a cotton-polyester blend and is not satiny at all.

Color Selection

Blanket binding is available in a large variety of colors. Quilt binding, unless the quilter chooses to cut, sew and iron her own, comes in white, off-white and very few other shades.

Application Technique and Location

Look at the binding or trim on your favorite blanket. Chances are it was machine-stitched onto the blanket using a zigzag setting and clear or matching thread. Blanket binding is also only applied at the head and foot, not all the way around. Quilt binding is hand-sewn around all four edges of the quilt using an overhand or overcast stitch.

References

• Wrights; Applying Blanket Binding
• DoveOriginalsTrims; How to Apply Quilt Binding
• Fiber Images; Hand Sewing Stitches