What is Bias Binding?
Bias binding is made by cutting fabric on a 45-degree angle (on the bias) rather than straight along the grain. This allows the fabric to have more stretch and flexibility, making it ideal for binding quilts with curves or rounded corners. It also lays smoother and hugs the edges more easily compared to straight-grain binding.
There are many reasons you might choose to use bias binding over straight grain binding to finish your quilting project. Here are some key benefits of using bias binding:
1. Flexibility for Curves and Rounded Edges
Because bias binding is cut on a 45-degree angle, it gives it extra stretch and flexibility compared to straight-grain binding. This makes it perfect for quilts with curves, scallops, or rounded edges, as it can easily wrap around these shapes without puckering.
2. Smoother Finish
Because of its stretch, bias binding lays flatter and smoother around the edges of a quilt. This creates a more polished and professional finish, especially on quilts with irregular edges or seams.
3. Durability
Binding cut on the bias is less likely to wear out quickly because the fibers are distributed at an angle. Straight-grain binding is more prone to fraying along the edges, while bias binding is more resilient and can withstand more wear and tear, making it ideal for quilts that will be frequently used or washed.
4. Versatility
Bias binding is more versatile than straight-grain binding. It can be used for both straight-edged quilts and those with complex, curved designs. If you ever want to try scalloped edges or rounded corners, knowing how to make bias binding will give you the flexibility to do so.
5. Aesthetic Appeal
The diagonal lines of bias binding can add an interesting visual element, especially if you're using a patterned fabric. Stripes, checks, or plaids cut on the bias create a dynamic, diagonal look that adds extra visual interest to the edges of your quilt.
How to Make Bias Quilt Binding: Step-by-Step Guide
Whether you're working on a quilt with curved edges or just prefer the flexibility of bias binding, this tutorial will walk you through each step.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Quilting fabric
- Rotary cutter and mat
- Quilting ruler (preferably a large one)
- Iron
- Sewing machine or needle (for hand sewing)
- Pins or binding clips
Step 1: Calculate How Much Binding You Need
Before you start cutting, you’ll need to figure out how much binding is necessary for your quilt. Measure the perimeter of your quilt (all four sides added together) and then add an extra 10 inches for wiggle room and joining the ends.
Most quilters prefer their binding strips to be 2 ¼" or 2 ½" wide. Multiply the total perimeter by your chosen strip width to calculate how much fabric you'll need. Here’s a quick example:
Example:
- Total perimeter = 240 inches
- Binding strip width = 2 ½ inches
- Total fabric needed: (240 inches + 10 inches) / 40" (standard fabric width) = 6.25 strips (round up to 7 strips)
For bias binding, you’ll need more fabric than straight-grain binding since you're cutting on the diagonal.
Step 2: Cutting the Fabric on the Bias
Start by laying your fabric flat on a cutting mat. Fold one of the selvage edges up to meet one of the cut edges of the fabric, making a diagonal fold. Depending on the size of the fabric you are cutting, it may be helpful to fold the pointy corner you just made down to meet the bottom of the fabric--just keep the bias (folded) edge lined up.
Rotate your fabric so you're looking at the bias edge straight on.
Using your quilting ruler, line it up with the folded 45-degree line on the fabric. Cut off the fold, then cut your first strip, making sure it's the full width of your chosen binding (e.g., 2 ½ inches).
Continue cutting this process until you have enough strips to cover the perimeter of your quilt.
Step 3: Joining the Strips
To join your bias strips, place two strips right sides together at a 90-degree angle, with the ends overlapping. Sew diagonally across the corner where they intersect. Once sewn, trim the excess fabric and press the seam open. Repeat until all strips are joined into one long continuous piece.
Step 4: Pressing the Binding
With your iron, press the entire length of the binding in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. This will make it easier to attach to your quilt later.
Step 5: Attaching the Bias Binding to Your Quilt
Start by pinning or clipping the binding to the front of your quilt. Align the raw edges of the binding with the raw edges of your quilt, and sew using a ¼" seam allowance. When you reach a corner or a curve, gently guide the binding to ensure it lays flat and smooth.
If you’re machine binding, sew all the way around, then fold the binding to the back and hand-stitch it down for a neat finish. If you're hand binding, flip the binding over to the back and use an invisible stitch to secure it.
Final Tips:
- Practice on scrap fabric first: If you’re new to bias binding, test on a small piece of fabric to get the hang of it.
- Watch for fraying: Bias cuts can fray more easily than straight-grain cuts, so handle the fabric carefully.
- Perfect for curves: Bias binding is your go-to for any quilt with rounded edges!
Closing Thoughts Learning how to make bias quilt binding will open up new possibilities for your quilting projects, allowing you to tackle quilts with more complex edges and designs. With a little practice, you’ll find that bias binding isn’t as difficult as it seems, and the result is a beautiful, professional-looking finish.
Happy quilting!