I noticed the other day that when Bonnie Hunter binds a quilt, she trims the excess batting and backing away first, then she machine sews the binding on before hand stitching it closed.
I apply the binding first, then trim away the excess. I’ve always thought that it gave me more to hang onto while I was sewing the binding down.
But, I rarely get an extremely straight seam when I attach the binding. It’s never been much of a problem. The tiny bit I drift disappears as I hand stitch the binding to the back. I noticed that Bonnie, because she has trimmed before she attaches, uses a seam guide that likely helps her get a straighter line. I think I’m going to have to try that next time.
I can hardly wait to finish this one. I folded the binding and attached it this morning and now I just need to trim and start the hand stitches.
I finally got a good picture of the quilting.
I’m pretty much lovin’ that.
It’s going to be a great cuddle quilt for the winter. Perfect size, perfect weight.
Now, how fast can I hand stitch about a half mile of binding down?
Be well. Have a great Thursday. Lane
I have always trimmed first and have very good results putting on a straight binding. I never press my binding in half either. I do use a walking foot and it keeps all the layers going together evenly.
ReplyDeleteI used to do it your way until when trimming the excess away I cut the binding in the corner where it is mitred.
ReplyDeleteHelen
Hi Lane, I enjoy your blog very much- first time for a comment from me. I trim before sewing on the binding. when I want a really even binding, I even mark the binding with a chalk line on the seam allowance because it comes out better for me that way!
ReplyDeleteI trim first, using a 12" square template at the corners, then a long ruler for the parts between the corners. I don't mark the seam allowance because I use a piecing foot.
ReplyDeleteLove this quilt.....these colors go so well together! I trim first then sew, but to each their own, I guess. If it works for you continue....if you want a different outcome do some experimenting! Have a fantastic, productive weekend!
ReplyDeleteLove, Becky
some good tips for this learner!
ReplyDeleteI love your quilt Lane, the soft coffee and cream with red is just heavenly.
Gorgeous quilt, Lane! And your quilting looks awesome! :o)
ReplyDeleteHi, Lane. I've always trimmed the excess before stitching on the binding--absolutely no problem getting a straight edge. I also use my walking foot and the right edge of it is exactly 1/4 inch from the needle.
ReplyDeleteLove the look of the quilt. I tend to trim before binding.
ReplyDelete