When I first learned to quilt in 1990, I used my serger for a major portion of construction. At the time, I was a newlywed, living in military housing in Honolulu, and hadn’t yet landed a job. Making baby quilts for new mommies at Tripler Army Medical Center was my focus and speed was essential, so I perfected my method. All the quilt tops were made with the same size squares, which were serged together. I cut wider-than-normal binding and ironed the folds such that one side was wider than the other. I serged the binding to the quilt front, folded over and iron, then stitched in the ditch from the front. Rarely did I miss catching the slightly wider binding on the back. When I did, it was a quick four or five stitches plucked out and resewn. The tops were not quilted; with a single stitch I put a length of ribbon onto each block center, tied a little bow, then machine tacked the top of the bow through the quilt so it would never come untied in the wash. Every quilt was different, but they were all unisex and were the cutest things. I was told that several babies were baptized while wrapped in a quilt I made. Occasionally, I’d see one of my quilts out in the wild. Several years after I stopped my production quilting, I saw a mommy with a toddler and an older child in the commissary parking lot. I heard her say, “take your blankie,” as she handed a baby quilt to the younger child. I recognized it as one I’d made and realized that it was likely given to her when the older child was born. An act of kindness is never wasted, and is returned to you tenfold.
Loved your story! Also loved your suggestion of ironing The binding off-center, with one side wider than the other, so that when you overlap it along the edge of the quilt, it will catch with the wider side folded over. That might take a little longer to iron it that way, plus might not be as easy to get that perfect. And it could still slip while stitching.
I have a king sized Christmas quilt that has been waiting for binding for 3 years. I'm going to sew it on the back and sew down the front, neat and tidy. Wahoo, it'll be great.
I've been quilting for 20 years and never happy with my mitered corners for binding. I did not know until today that you are supposed to sew off the corner at a 45-degree angle. Can't wait to try it.
I learned it from Kay Woods in the 90s. She also had a you tube video about using a serger to piece & quilt at the same time! Not sure if it's still available. Also picked up on a tip from one of the male quilters I've followed. Before you stitch on the binding either front or back, clip about a 1/8" across the corner. After you sew out the 45 degree corner, it removes just a "nib" of fabric which allows your corner the lay flatter on both sides but still leaves your bindings full.
OH MY!!! I am a new quilter, I have searched and searched on how to improve my binding. I am less than 4 minutes into your video and oh my God the wavy stitching blew my mind! So simple yet perfect! Sewing a straight line through all of those layers has been so incredibly tough for me. I thank you from the bottom of my heart
Learn something new every Monday. Going to try the method of sewing the binding on the back and then turn and stitch the front. Never new about the fusible thread. Thank you for sharing.
Interesting method to apply binding but I really prefer sewing the binding on the back and machine stitching down by sewing machine on the top. I always seem to get good results with this method. Thanks for showing this method, always looking to learn something new.❤
Maureen, this is the first of your videos that I've watched - thanks YT algorithm for suggesting it! I clicked on it thinking, "Oh, yawn, can there be anything new about binding?" (I've been sewing for 65 years.) Munch, munch, I'm eating my words! This is a great method, and I appreciate your very clear demo. It's a bonus that you also have a Bernina, so I have the feet you discussed. I also love that you are donating to Project Linus, as I do. I'll be watching more of your videos and look forward to learning more from you. 😀
I just found your channel, and you have a new subscriber from Ottawa Canada. I’ve been sewing for 50 years and quilting for 40, but I can always learn something new. I’ve used fusible thread in the bobbin for a very long time, and found it very useful. However, I never thought of using a serger. Brilliant! There’s so much more glue available to be ironed instead of just the one stitch. Keep up the genius ideas, love it! And by the way, keep up the great opinions too! Don’t let anybody push you around!
This is the first new binding idea I’ve heard in years. I’ve NEVER had any success with machine binding, but this might be something that could bring about change. (I WILL have to dust off my serger though.)
Flange binding is what I’ve found to work the best and is the easiest. It also gives a nice piped edge finish which gives a very professional looking finish done by machine. Machine bound quilts seem to stand up better to multiple washing. I would like to see your opinion on several topics; thread: polyester vs cotton (piecing, quilting) and batting: polyester vs cotton. Our donation quilts in our guild use polyester batting for charity quilts because it’s easier when washed frequently, warmer, and cheaper. Most of my quilts are flannel backed as well because they are meant for comfort and warmth. I also live in Canada 🇨🇦.
Fifteen to twenty years ago I used to work and teach in a quilt shop and have bound my quilts the same way you did. Though l don’t add in serging the edges it always comes out nicely for me. Having the little clips now is nice, too.
I don't have a serger. What works for me is to do a faux piping/flange binding. It is a little more work but it elevates the look of the binding and when you use a thread color to match the flange, you don't see your stitches on top.
Thanks for making a play list of your videos. Yes I have seen this years and years ago but not on the serger. You have great videos. Keep up the good work!
I adore hand sewing to finish my quilt edges. I do appreciate you sharing this technique, I am fairly certain that I have never seen it before. Thank you for sharing! Love your throwback reference to Elizabeth Zimmerman.
I am so glad you showed this method. It is my very favorite method - serger with fusible thread - Deb Canham (Deborah Canham) is the one I learned it from - she did a RUclips clip from her Facebook live several months ago. "Bindings on the Serger with Mitered Corners". In fact, I actually demonstrated that very method at my local American Sewing Guild neighborhood meeting April 2023. I use either the pivot method as you've shown or actually snip into the binding at a 1/4" in at the same mark and fold my binding back and serge straight off. I really like how the serger cuts off the various little wisps of batting and threads as it is attaching the binding too. Great video - thank you!
I love this idea, thank you so much! I stopped hand sewing bindings years ago, too tedious and it makes my hands hurt. I've used glue but it's so time consuming and messy and I stretch the binding out sometimes pulling it into place as I iron it. Lately I've been using clips around the edges but I know what you mean about missing spots and ripping it out and resewing it. It never occurred to me to serge the binding on with fusible thread, perfect!
I like that you’ve had several methods of doing the binding demonstrated here. I do not have a Serger sewing machine, and I never knew about fusible thread by superior threads, so indeed you could do a zigzag with the fusible thread according to the superior thread videos. I’m assuming the fusible thread, acts like glue, which means it won’t slip later when you are stitching in the ditch or stitching next to the ditch. And you definitely want to make sure all the stitching is right before you iron it, as I wouldn’t want to iron down a slipped edge either. Also like the tip for a ridge foot along the binding edge. Superior threads has several videos; see Seven ways to use fusible thread. Like the appliqué tip. And they have thin invisible bottom thread that can be used during the stitch in the ditch for a neater back (being invisible). Also both are good for basting. The cones are available on their website and Amazon has the smaller thread spool in the ‘trial’ size.
Thank-you for your helpful information as I do not have a serger either. I am going to try the fusible thread with the zigzag stitch and see if helps me. Great idea!
@@charsie3098 I tried a straight long stitch on the seam for the binding. It didn’t adhere well and the seam had a tendency to come undone during turning. Laying a loose piece of fusible thread inside during ironing from the back to cover the seam edge worked ok as a temporary glue, so I don’t recommend using the fusible anywhere in a seam. I think the serger it’s just over casing edge on the seam not the seam itself. Zigzag next to the seam should do ok for the temporary glue until top stitched down, fyi. Still that’s an extra step. Best to think of the fusible where it’s only used as a temporary glue (like appliqué edge or hem before a final stitch).
I have successfully used this technique. It's not a never seen before technique, but not oft-seen to be sure. The Wonderfil makes an iron and fuse which works well, but it doesn't go far. The serger goes, it is has a couple of important uses in the sewing room. First, if you have made a quilt top but want/need to move along to another project, you can put a narrow bind on it to keep ends from unraveling. 2nd I like to serge my quilted top before binding to keep edges neat.--and adding iron and fuse in lower loopers is an extra benefit. Because, I prefer the precision of my machine in attaching my binding, I don't combine that step with my serger. I glue baste my binding onto the back of my quilt to include finishing the ends, and then sew with my machine as I prefer the precision of the sewing machine to get a balanced binding. It's wonderful to see different techniques and adopt the pieces we like into our own process.
I have never seen this method, very clever. For over a decade I have brought my binding over to the front to machine down as I can control it better than towards the back. As for show suggestions, maybe what your staff, friends, yourself go to quilt patterns. Favourite quilts ever made or want to make.
Very interesting binding method! I hate hand-sewing - as I commented on another site, if quilting required a lot of hand-sewing, I would find another hobby, so I learned from the very start to machine stitch my binding. I don't own a serger, so my method is like the last one you showed - to attach to the back, bring around to the front and using matching thread, finish the binding on the front. I make sure the thread on the back matches it, and I'm like Carol - I don't care where the stitches land, as they really don't show if the thread matches. However, I'm intrigued by the idea of the fusible thread, I might try it. I think I saw Nancy Zieman use it in one of her shows years ago.
I know, I know.....I'm *that* quilter, but i really love hand sewing the binding on. Quilts, placemats, table runners, potholders, coasters....it's truly my favorite part. And give me a striped fabric for the binding, and I'm ecstatic. 😁
I’ve not used a serger but for years have put fusible thread in the bobbin of my sewing machine and attached the binding. Then iron. Not as much of a surface to adhere to but still works pretty well. I learned this method about 40 years ago. I like your method of serging on the binding; however, I don’t own a serger. Thanks for this information.
I do not have a serger, I do use glue sometimes before securing & do use a stitch in the ditch foot. I normally hand sew my binding when finishing but arthritis has made me look for alternative methods using the machine. I have a Pfaff machine & not all of your tips would apply but some do. Have not seen your method before but it could be adapted for most. Thanks for your clear instructions...have not seen that thread before either!🪡🧵
The very first quilt that I made was a single bed size and I did it with a serger. It was at a 1 day class (Eleanor Burns log cabin quilt pattern) and it really went together fast.
I took a surger class about 4 maybe five years ago from a baby lock dealer in Issaquah Washington. We were taught to do this on a table runner that we made in class it is amazing.
great to see all the options. for those who don't have a serger, you can sew the binding to the front (or back) with a regular machine and normal thread. I have found that if I trim a tiny bit off the edge and press towards the back and clip very well and sew carefully, I have never missed catching the back. I prefer to stitch in the ditch on the front. I have a serger and wouldn't use it because I think the extra thread makes weight and stiffness. But to each their own.
I’ve used a double sided papers on a4 inch ditch Witcher or a binding. I miter my corners, the same as you do, and I meet my binding strips at the beginning in the end, the same as you do, but I you so the binding to the back first, and then roll it around to the front. I use a zipper foot, so I can see exactly where those stitches are going. I’ve also used the flange method of binding and it’s really simple, very forgiving and quickly finished. I too, Press my bindings, and it really does help make them flat and meet up perfectly. But, like you, I do like the hand binding method, and if it’s an important enough quilt, I will hand stitch it down. Thank you for all of your instructions, and particularly the way you notice other tutorials that tend to lead the beginners astray. It’s important to cut accurately so accurately and press accurately to get good quality..
Thanks for showing this new binding method. As I don’t have a serger, I’ll continue to use the Elmers school glue method for securing the binding. I’ve gotten quite fast with this method and hardly ever miss catching the reverse side. It’s not quite as fast as your way, but I do end up with a secure, presentable binding for charity quilts, my personal quilts, table runners and place mats. My suggestions for possible subjects to present would be use of walking foot for quilting, with ways to develop confidence to transition to free motion quilting. And, if you have any more good ideas for use of scraps that don’t end up totally riotous with no place for the eye to rest. Thanks for your weekly presentations with great content!
Thank you for demonstrating and sharing your binding methods. 👏🏻👏🏻😍💐👏🏻👏🏻👍🏻👍🏻 Yes, I have used both these binding methods, except the serging. I don’t have a serger, so I sewed the edges with zigzag stitch. I didn’t feel like the extra step was worth it, so I quit doing that. There was enough adhesive in the straight-stitched bobbin thread to hold the ironed binding on the back, at least until I stitched in the ditch on the front.
Thanks for your opinions. It gets me to thinking rather than just following the lead 😊 I have two suggestions for future episodes. 1- The cutting mat lines, except the vertical and horizontal, how and what should they be used for. 2- To sash or not to sash. Show blocks with and without sashing, narrow or wide, pieced or not. My favorite example is the Dove in the window, (Sister's Choice) The visual changes are amazing.
I have seen videos on the same binding methods using a serger and fusible thread in the lower looper. I have tried it and love it. I have only used it on smaller projects, as I am fairly new to quilting.
I like sewing the binding to the back and flipping over to the front. I've heard of using the fusible thread - not with a serged edge, however - but more than 25 years ago.
I taught myself to quilt. I have mostly turned the stitch the back to the inside (batting or flannel) and then folded it in. Folding the inside as well and then sewing around the outside. Giving the quilt a self binded look. The other way I have done binding is similar (I guess) to the way Lauren does it. I use a bigger strip folding and ironing both sides to the inside. Then I put that over the quilt edge. I see around the quilt edge first. I then see a 1/4 inch from the outside edge of the binding all the way around. I tuck the corners in like a present when I get to them. These two ways seem the easiest to me. I’ve never had a complaint about how they look.
i am so happy to found a bernina user. i am working on an even easier binding way. i do zig zag edging prior to binding. maybe i could add the binding with it but found doing it prior it lays so nice in the binding. i had gone from 2 1/2 strips to 2 1/4 but found i like the 2 1/2 strips as the corners are easier unless a small project then i use a 2 1/4. i will try the zig zag and attach binding and see if it works as this would be perfect it would save money as no special thread needed. if you contact me i am happy to share with you as i am not a video person!
I cut my binding 2 1/2" then fold in half & press. Sew in binding 3/8" seam. Flip over binding & 🤞stitch in the ditch. FYI🤗 I have a Janome to use a 1/4" foot adjust my needle to the left makes 3/8" seam
I had not seen that method before and I will definitely try it. As far as content, I have to say that you are right on target! I really like the no nonsense approach. I would like to see your method of doing flip corners. Thank you so much for educating me!
When turned over to finish fastening ....I have used decorative fancy machine stitch ..contrast cotton makes a feature of it and forgiving of slightly wobbly stitching 💞🥰🙈🙉🙊
I do it like your friend Carol,mThe last method, with a 2.25” strip. and I liked that. I’ve not tried fusible, that might be useful for me. I find my binding is good if I cut WOF strips for the slight stretch, and apply it slightly stretched to prevent wavy bindings, but if it’s stuck down that’s not a worry. My latest problem was I stretched it too much and had an overly tight bound edge. Wretched uncertainty! Glad to meet another Linus quilter! What a great charity
The ruler work quilting looks wonderful on the Project Linus quilt, echoing the squares in the patchwork. A video idea could be easy quilting designs with rulers and other supplies. The fusible thread is also pretty interesting to learn about. A bunch of ideas spring out of that tidbit. Thank you.
I just did this with my serger and a much larger spool from Superior Threads!!! Not sure where I saw it unless you mentioned it. I found it worked very well! I used a very wide stitch on my serger and 2.25 binding (which is the size I like anyway). I used a 4-thread with the fusible in the lower looper but the right thread kept breaking for some reason. I wish I could remember where I got the idea from but it must have been a couple of weeks ago as I had to order the thread online. Googling does bring up some videos. I went around the whole thing with wonder clips first so that It was easier with the iron and then reclipped after pressing. Best binding I've ever done.
My first visit to your site, great job! I absolutely LOVE the pattern on the quilt showing in your opening demonstration about binding. Is this pattern available anywhere? It looks easy and completely fun🎉🎉🎉 Thanks for the demo!
Your value on that "blocks" quilt is great! (You didn't need black or white.) I especially appreciated the yellow - so hard to interpret yellow as dark.
WOW! I am so impressed with this method! I have a serger but I don't use it because if I break a thread, I don't know how to rethread it! Also, I don't know which is the "lower looper". I have been sewing more than 50 years, but I really don't know how do use my serger!
This is an interesting method and I should break out my serger to try it. I do something similar now but I do use school glue, binding sewn to front, slightly larger seam allowance on 2.5” wide binding. I flip to back, glue using stitching line and I sew down on the front in the ditch. I use a fine thread color matched in the bobbin, Wonderfil Invisafil. One really has to look closely to see the thread on the back.
I use the serpentine stitch for quilting- I never thought of using it on the binding. I always did it by hand, but my hands are past that, so have been using a zigzag. I did one using the serpentine today, and it looks swell.
I do not own a serger and I’m wondering if a short and narrow zigzag with fusible thread in the bobbin would work equally as well? Thank you for a great tutorial, and I look forward to your reply
That binding way the other person suggested to you is the perfect way of doing it according to my mother and grandmother and I’m 76 so the old timers new how to quilt much better than all the new timers that have tried to reinvent the wheel. With that method you can make your binding as wide as you like If you can sew at all the corners are so simple for a perfect miter I love it and have never found and one ever suggests it before. Needs to be shown more more often to give young new quilters a choice quilters were using that method over 100 years ago. I notice you didn’t really give it much attention maybe you didn’t really understand it when the other person showed it to you
I don't have a surger but do a similar method. I put my 2.25 binding on the back and when I stitch on the front I use the ditch foot and move my needle where it just catches the binding on the front by about 1/8". The ditch guide rides the edge of the binding.
Thanks for sharing your binding technique. But you assume that everyone has a serger. Since I don't, I guess I'll continue to do binding the way I usually do. I enjoy your videos, and you've helped me to look at some things from a different perspective.
For those of us without a serger, would this method also work with a regular, cheap machine? It seems like the essential element is using the fusible thread and not necessarily the type of machine. Or can you only use that type of thread with a serger? Love your results and it seems much easier so I hope it’ll work on my cheap Brother machine.
I wonder if this method could be used with a straight stitch machine using the overlock stitch since I don't have a serger & @ 94 ¹/² don't plan on investing in one. A Fellow Illinoisan
For a new episode: For binding, I use the Folded Corner Clipper ruler to prep my binding strips (cut them into parallelograms) to make it easier to sew them together but have struggled with the ending. I do use the method where you cut the end so it overlaps by the width of the binding but I'd like to use the ruler to make that ending easier to figure out and sew. Can you try this and see what you get? Love your videos! Thanks.
The FCC is fantastic for binding. I'll share my tip on the final join. I'll had that I also use the Hot Hemmer to get perfect 45 creases and even foldbacks AND to measure the end. When you come to the end of your binding: fold both pieces back on themselves and leave about 1/8" gap. (keeps binding from being flaccid on final join). CUT at crease on one end. Cut the second piece the binding width from crease for the overlap. Take right side binding (quilt toward you) and open, and face it right. Clip with your FCC. Take the left side point left, and clip with your FCC. Match clipped ends and sew. Perfect every time.
Try using a small Flange in your binding. When you sew down the binding in the ditch it disappears completely. I do like using the serger for binding. Floriani has a fusible thread in a larger spool. Great video, Thank you
The easiest way to bind that I’ve seen. Something I’ll have to pass along to my Quilting group. Could you use the sticky thread in the bobbin on a straight sewing machine?
Do you have a link to the fusible thread? I would love to try this method if I can figure out which is my lower looper on my serger. I am a beginner when it comes to using a serger.
A few suggestions for Contant, since you asked: I’d love to see you do some stitch and flip corners, also called connecting blocks by Mary Ellen Hopkins, also called snowballed corners. I love it that you tell us where to get our charts and how to figure our math. Another contact suggestion would be how to make your fabric fit when given small amounts with the kit so that if we cut it wrong, we don’t have to substitute something else. Several times I’ve had to pieces smaller pieces to make a block even though I did start with a large cuts first. Not always do the kids give us the correct way of cutting the fabric especially if we want to make fabric saving half square triangles. Also, how do you know ahead of time which direction to press? Your seems unless you use a pattern that spells it out. I like to create my own quilts, and if there’s several units in a block, I often have to open up seams and press in opposite directions, and still sometimes end up with twisted pressing. How do I accommodate matching up, pressing one way and the other two match nest and seams? Is it OK to clip the seam that was so in the wrong direction?
Thank you for showing a different technique. My days of hand binding are over and I'm always looking for alternatives. Are you concerned about thread buildup (under the binding)? Have you ever tried Susie's Magic Binding? I've done it with great success and think it's just as fast. I'd be happy to share the way I do it. I did make a change or two from the video. I really look forward to Mondays and seeing what you do!
Hi Maureen! For future content, I'd love to know if you have any tips for preventing your scrap fabric from fraying while it is in storage. I'd love to pre-cut my scraps so that they are ready to use as you described in episode 48. However I've found that I end up having to recut the fabric anyway because within a few weeks the edges have become too frayed. Any advice?
I would like to see videos that use up precut jelly rolls, I have an abundance of them (given to me as gifts) and I use them in bargello quilts but need I ideas on using pre-cuts from my stash.
I've done this before, but I usually put the fusible thread and a regular serger thread in the Looper. I felt like fusing the thread might weaken the original serger stitch since your Looper thread would be "melted" during ironing. That might have been an unfounded concern, but just in case, I used two threads in the Looper, and it worked fine. The fusible thread is pretty expensive, though!
I don't recall seeing this method of binding in the past, I don't have a serger, would this work with this thread in the bobbin of my Juki? Contentwise, I think you're doing a fine job with what you have created thus far.
Finally someone who doesn’t like hand binding! I felt like I was the only one!
When I first learned to quilt in 1990, I used my serger for a major portion of construction. At the time, I was a newlywed, living in military housing in Honolulu, and hadn’t yet landed a job. Making baby quilts for new mommies at Tripler Army Medical Center was my focus and speed was essential, so I perfected my method. All the quilt tops were made with the same size squares, which were serged together. I cut wider-than-normal binding and ironed the folds such that one side was wider than the other. I serged the binding to the quilt front, folded over and iron, then stitched in the ditch from the front. Rarely did I miss catching the slightly wider binding on the back. When I did, it was a quick four or five stitches plucked out and resewn. The tops were not quilted; with a single stitch I put a length of ribbon onto each block center, tied a little bow, then machine tacked the top of the bow through the quilt so it would never come untied in the wash. Every quilt was different, but they were all unisex and were the cutest things. I was told that several babies were baptized while wrapped in a quilt I made. Occasionally, I’d see one of my quilts out in the wild. Several years after I stopped my production quilting, I saw a mommy with a toddler and an older child in the commissary parking lot. I heard her say, “take your blankie,” as she handed a baby quilt to the younger child. I recognized it as one I’d made and realized that it was likely given to her when the older child was born. An act of kindness is never wasted, and is returned to you tenfold.
Loved your story! Also loved your suggestion of ironing The binding off-center, with one side wider than the other, so that when you overlap it along the edge of the quilt, it will catch with the wider side folded over. That might take a little longer to iron it that way, plus might not be as easy to get that perfect. And it could still slip while stitching.
"Occasionally, I’d see one of my quilts out in the wild." This made me laugh.
Sweet story. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for these tips. ❤ thank you for what you did for the families x
I want try some flat lock quilt as you go with my Janome Combi but I’m not quite sure what I would make.
I have a king sized Christmas quilt that has been waiting for binding for 3 years. I'm going to sew it on the back and sew down the front, neat and tidy. Wahoo, it'll be great.
Yes, I am sure it will.
Thank you for going out of the box with that gorgeous quilt !!! ... There are no rules when quilting. It is your creation.
I've been quilting for 20 years and never happy with my mitered corners for binding. I did not know until today that you are supposed to sew off the corner at a 45-degree angle. Can't wait to try it.
Took me 15 years of quilting until I saw this method I though 💡 why did I never even think of this? 😅
I learned it from Kay Woods in the 90s. She also had a you tube video about using a serger to piece & quilt at the same time! Not sure if it's still available. Also picked up on a tip from one of the male quilters I've followed. Before you stitch on the binding either front or back, clip about a 1/8" across the corner. After you sew out the 45 degree corner, it removes just a "nib" of fabric which allows your corner the lay flatter on both sides but still leaves your bindings full.
@phxquilt ruclips.net/video/2C2Untfmz-8/видео.html
that was all I could find
Your instructions are so easy to follow and your explanations make a world of difference.
Thanks so much.
OH MY!!! I am a new quilter, I have searched and searched on how to improve my binding. I am less than 4 minutes into your video and oh my God the wavy stitching blew my mind! So simple yet perfect! Sewing a straight line through all of those layers has been so incredibly tough for me. I thank you from the bottom of my heart
Learn something new every Monday. Going to try the method of sewing the binding on the back and then turn and stitch the front. Never new about the fusible thread. Thank you for sharing.
Thank-you from Palm Coast Fl. I loved the video!
O absolutely love the quilt that looking like tumbling blocks. A tutorial would be awesome on that. It’s beautiful!
Interesting method to apply binding but I really prefer sewing the binding on the back and machine stitching down by sewing machine on the top. I always seem to get good results with this method. Thanks for showing this method, always looking to learn something new.❤
ME TOO!! 🎉
I do my binding the same as you!
I always like to see a new method of binding. My go to binding lately has been a flange binding.
Ooohh, I just discovered flange binding! It’s so pretty and can his a multitude of sins. 😉
Maureen, this is the first of your videos that I've watched - thanks YT algorithm for suggesting it! I clicked on it thinking, "Oh, yawn, can there be anything new about binding?" (I've been sewing for 65 years.) Munch, munch, I'm eating my words! This is a great method, and I appreciate your very clear demo. It's a bonus that you also have a Bernina, so I have the feet you discussed. I also love that you are donating to Project Linus, as I do. I'll be watching more of your videos and look forward to learning more from you. 😀
So glad to hear you found me.
I just found your channel, and you have a new subscriber from Ottawa Canada. I’ve been sewing for 50 years and quilting for 40, but I can always learn something new. I’ve used fusible thread in the bobbin for a very long time, and found it very useful. However, I never thought of using a serger. Brilliant! There’s so much more glue available to be ironed instead of just the one stitch. Keep up the genius ideas, love it! And by the way, keep up the great opinions too! Don’t let anybody push you around!
Thank you for your kind words.
I absolutely love that raspberry colour and it’s good with the other colours you used, great quilt.
Thanks so much.
This is the first new binding idea I’ve heard in years. I’ve NEVER had any success with machine binding, but this might be something that could bring about change. (I WILL have to dust off my serger though.)
Love your binding method. Added fusible thread to my list to buy. Thanks
I have not seen this binding method before. I think it’s genius! Thanks for sharing!
Flange binding is what I’ve found to work the best and is the easiest. It also gives a nice piped edge finish which gives a very professional looking finish done by machine. Machine bound quilts seem to stand up better to multiple washing. I would like to see your opinion on several topics; thread: polyester vs cotton (piecing, quilting) and batting: polyester vs cotton. Our donation quilts in our guild use polyester batting for charity quilts because it’s easier when washed frequently, warmer, and cheaper. Most of my quilts are flannel backed as well because they are meant for comfort and warmth. I also live in Canada 🇨🇦.
Jenn, I also use the flange binding. I love the look and the speed.
Fifteen to twenty years ago I used to work and teach in a quilt shop and have bound my quilts the same way you did. Though l don’t add in serging the edges it always comes out nicely for me. Having the little clips now is nice, too.
I don't have a serger. What works for me is to do a faux piping/flange binding. It is a little more work but it elevates the look of the binding and when you use a thread color to match the flange, you don't see your stitches on top.
Thanks for making a play list of your videos. Yes I have seen this years and years ago but not on the serger. You have great videos. Keep up the good work!
I adore hand sewing to finish my quilt edges. I do appreciate you sharing this technique, I am fairly certain that I have never seen it before. Thank you for sharing! Love your throwback reference to Elizabeth Zimmerman.
I am so glad you showed this method. It is my very favorite method - serger with fusible thread - Deb Canham (Deborah Canham) is the one I learned it from - she did a RUclips clip from her Facebook live several months ago. "Bindings on the Serger with Mitered Corners". In fact, I actually demonstrated that very method at my local American Sewing Guild neighborhood meeting April 2023. I use either the pivot method as you've shown or actually snip into the binding at a 1/4" in at the same mark and fold my binding back and serge straight off. I really like how the serger cuts off the various little wisps of batting and threads as it is attaching the binding too. Great video - thank you!
I love the use of the serger with the fusible thread on the lower looper. I think I'll try that....
I love this idea, thank you so much! I stopped hand sewing bindings years ago, too tedious and it makes my hands hurt. I've used glue but it's so time consuming and messy and I stretch the binding out sometimes pulling it into place as I iron it. Lately I've been using clips around the edges but I know what you mean about missing spots and ripping it out and resewing it. It never occurred to me to serge the binding on with fusible thread, perfect!
I love the visible thread idea! I will be using this! Thank you!
Hello Maureen, I haven’t seen this binding method, very interesting. Thanks for sharing this, 👍🥰 Chris
Love this method!!! I’m so happy I found your Chanel.
I like that you’ve had several methods of doing the binding demonstrated here. I do not have a Serger sewing machine, and I never knew about fusible thread by superior threads, so indeed you could do a zigzag with the fusible thread according to the superior thread videos. I’m assuming the fusible thread, acts like glue, which means it won’t slip later when you are stitching in the ditch or stitching next to the ditch. And you definitely want to make sure all the stitching is right before you iron it, as I wouldn’t want to iron down a slipped edge either. Also like the tip for a ridge foot along the binding edge.
Superior threads has several videos; see Seven ways to use fusible thread. Like the appliqué tip. And they have thin invisible bottom thread that can be used during the stitch in the ditch for a neater back (being invisible). Also both are good for basting. The cones are available on their website and Amazon has the smaller thread spool in the ‘trial’ size.
Thank-you for your helpful information as I do not have a serger either. I am going to try the fusible thread with the zigzag stitch and see if helps me. Great idea!
@@charsie3098 I tried a straight long stitch on the seam for the binding. It didn’t adhere well and the seam had a tendency to come undone during turning. Laying a loose piece of fusible thread inside during ironing from the back to cover the seam edge worked ok as a temporary glue, so I don’t recommend using the fusible anywhere in a seam. I think the serger it’s just over casing edge on the seam not the seam itself. Zigzag next to the seam should do ok for the temporary glue until top stitched down, fyi. Still that’s an extra step. Best to think of the fusible where it’s only used as a temporary glue (like appliqué edge or hem before a final stitch).
Excellent video by a sage instructor and quilter. ❤
I have successfully used this technique. It's not a never seen before technique, but not oft-seen to be sure. The Wonderfil makes an iron and fuse which works well, but it doesn't go far. The serger goes, it is has a couple of important uses in the sewing room. First, if you have made a quilt top but want/need to move along to another project, you can put a narrow bind on it to keep ends from unraveling. 2nd I like to serge my quilted top before binding to keep edges neat.--and adding iron and fuse in lower loopers is an extra benefit. Because, I prefer the precision of my machine in attaching my binding, I don't combine that step with my serger. I glue baste my binding onto the back of my quilt to include finishing the ends, and then sew with my machine as I prefer the precision of the sewing machine to get a balanced binding. It's wonderful to see different techniques and adopt the pieces we like into our own process.
I have never seen this method, very clever. For over a decade I have brought my binding over to the front to machine down as I can control it better than towards the back.
As for show suggestions, maybe what your staff, friends, yourself go to quilt patterns. Favourite quilts ever made or want to make.
I have been using the serger and fuseable thread method they turn out beautifully. Fast and easy. I look forward to this final step. It is like magic.
Very interesting binding method! I hate hand-sewing - as I commented on another site, if quilting required a lot of hand-sewing, I would find another hobby, so I learned from the very start to machine stitch my binding. I don't own a serger, so my method is like the last one you showed - to attach to the back, bring around to the front and using matching thread, finish the binding on the front. I make sure the thread on the back matches it, and I'm like Carol - I don't care where the stitches land, as they really don't show if the thread matches. However, I'm intrigued by the idea of the fusible thread, I might try it. I think I saw Nancy Zieman use it in one of her shows years ago.
I know, I know.....I'm *that* quilter, but i really love hand sewing the binding on. Quilts, placemats, table runners, potholders, coasters....it's truly my favorite part. And give me a striped fabric for the binding, and I'm ecstatic. 😁
I’m right there with you. 😀
I’ve not used a serger but for years have put fusible thread in the bobbin of my sewing machine and attached the binding. Then iron. Not as much of a surface to adhere to but still works pretty well. I learned this method about 40 years ago. I like your method of serging on the binding; however, I don’t own a serger. Thanks for this information.
You could use the zig zag stitch on your sewing machine instead of straight stitch. Gives you more stitches per inch
I’ve got several quilts ready to bind. I’m definitely going to try your method!
I do not have a serger, I do use glue sometimes before securing & do use a stitch in the ditch foot. I normally hand sew my binding when finishing but arthritis has made me look for alternative methods using the machine. I have a Pfaff machine & not all of your tips would apply but some do. Have not seen your method before but it could be adapted for most. Thanks for your clear instructions...have not seen that thread before either!🪡🧵
The very first quilt that I made was a single bed size and I did it with a serger. It was at a 1 day class (Eleanor Burns log cabin quilt pattern) and it really went together fast.
I really like your animal quilt! It's wonderful!
I took a surger class about 4 maybe five years ago from a baby lock dealer in Issaquah Washington. We were taught to do this on a table runner that we made in class it is amazing.
great to see all the options. for those who don't have a serger, you can sew the binding to the front (or back) with a regular machine and normal thread. I have found that if I trim a tiny bit off the edge and press towards the back and clip very well and sew carefully, I have never missed catching the back. I prefer to stitch in the ditch on the front. I have a serger and wouldn't use it because I think the extra thread makes weight and stiffness. But to each their own.
I’ve used a double sided papers on a4 inch ditch Witcher or a binding. I miter my corners, the same as you do, and I meet my binding strips at the beginning in the end, the same as you do, but I you so the binding to the back first, and then roll it around to the front. I use a zipper foot, so I can see exactly where those stitches are going. I’ve also used the flange method of binding and it’s really simple, very forgiving and quickly finished. I too, Press my bindings, and it really does help make them flat and meet up perfectly. But, like you, I do like the hand binding method, and if it’s an important enough quilt, I will hand stitch it down. Thank you for all of your instructions, and particularly the way you notice other tutorials that tend to lead the beginners astray. It’s important to cut accurately so accurately and press accurately to get good quality..
That's an awesome idea, thanks for sharing! I have never seen this method of binding before :D
Thanks for showing this new binding method. As I don’t have a serger, I’ll continue to use the Elmers school glue method for securing the binding. I’ve gotten quite fast with this method and hardly ever miss catching the reverse side. It’s not quite as fast as your way, but I do end up with a secure, presentable binding for charity quilts, my personal quilts, table runners and place mats.
My suggestions for possible subjects to present would be use of walking foot for quilting, with ways to develop confidence to transition to free motion quilting. And, if you have any more good ideas for use of scraps that don’t end up totally riotous with no place for the eye to rest.
Thanks for your weekly presentations with great content!
I'd be lost without my Elmers.
I don’t have a serger either
Thank you for demonstrating and sharing your binding methods.
👏🏻👏🏻😍💐👏🏻👏🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Yes, I have used both these binding methods, except the serging. I don’t have a serger, so I sewed the edges with zigzag stitch. I didn’t feel like the extra step was worth it, so I quit doing that. There was enough adhesive in the straight-stitched bobbin thread to hold the ironed binding on the back, at least until I stitched in the ditch on the front.
Thanks for your opinions. It gets me to thinking rather than just following the lead 😊 I have two suggestions for future episodes. 1- The cutting mat lines, except the vertical and horizontal, how and what should they be used for. 2- To sash or not to sash. Show blocks with and without sashing, narrow or wide, pieced or not. My favorite example is the Dove in the window, (Sister's Choice) The visual changes are amazing.
Never heard of Dove in the Window.
@@dc5600 it's the corner block in sister's choice. Well, that's what my grandmother called it.
I have seen videos on the same binding methods using a serger and fusible thread in the lower looper. I have tried it and love it. I have only used it on smaller projects, as I am fairly new to quilting.
Very interesting I must try it. I do like hand binding.
So glad I found you. I'm a new learner ;)
Welcome! So glad to hear.
I like sewing the binding to the back and flipping over to the front. I've heard of using the fusible thread - not with a serged edge, however - but more than 25 years ago.
I taught myself to quilt. I have mostly turned the stitch the back to the inside (batting or flannel) and then folded it in. Folding the inside as well and then sewing around the outside. Giving the quilt a self binded look. The other way I have done binding is similar (I guess) to the way Lauren does it. I use a bigger strip folding and ironing both sides to the inside. Then I put that over the quilt edge. I see around the quilt edge first. I then see a 1/4 inch from the outside edge of the binding all the way around. I tuck the corners in like a present when I get to them. These two ways seem the easiest to me. I’ve never had a complaint about how they look.
i am so happy to found a bernina user. i am working on an even easier binding way. i do zig zag edging prior to binding. maybe i could add the binding with it but found doing it prior it lays so nice in the binding. i had gone from 2 1/2 strips to 2 1/4 but found i like the 2 1/2 strips as the corners are easier unless a small project then i use a 2 1/4. i will try the zig zag and attach binding and see if it works as this would be perfect it would save money as no special thread needed. if you contact me i am happy to share with you as i am not a video person!
Brilliantly crafted. Much this
Thank you.
Great video. I want to see crazy quilts, please.
I cut my binding 2 1/2" then fold in half & press. Sew in binding 3/8" seam. Flip over binding & 🤞stitch in the ditch. FYI🤗 I have a Janome to use a 1/4" foot adjust my needle to the left makes 3/8" seam
I had not seen that method before and I will definitely try it. As far as content, I have to say that you are right on target! I really like the no nonsense approach. I would like to see your method of doing flip corners. Thank you so much for educating me!
When turned over to finish fastening ....I have used decorative fancy machine stitch ..contrast cotton makes a feature of it and forgiving of slightly wobbly stitching 💞🥰🙈🙉🙊
Oh I love that quilt behind you..what fabric panel/fabric was used please?
It is Wild Life Portraits from Michael Miller Fabrics.
I like your creativity 🎉
Thanks
I really enjoy hand sewing the binding on the back side. I’m not worried about wear because I only sew table runners.
I do it like your friend Carol,mThe last method, with a 2.25” strip. and I liked that. I’ve not tried fusible, that might be useful for me. I find my binding is good if I cut WOF strips for the slight stretch, and apply it slightly stretched to prevent wavy bindings, but if it’s stuck down that’s not a worry. My latest problem was I stretched it too much and had an overly tight bound edge. Wretched uncertainty! Glad to meet another Linus quilter! What a great charity
The ruler work quilting looks wonderful on the Project Linus quilt, echoing the squares in the patchwork. A video idea could be easy quilting designs with rulers and other supplies. The fusible thread is also pretty interesting to learn about. A bunch of ideas spring out of that tidbit. Thank you.
I just did this with my serger and a much larger spool from Superior Threads!!! Not sure where I saw it unless you mentioned it. I found it worked very well! I used a very wide stitch on my serger and 2.25 binding (which is the size I like anyway). I used a 4-thread with the fusible in the lower looper but the right thread kept breaking for some reason. I wish I could remember where I got the idea from but it must have been a couple of weeks ago as I had to order the thread online. Googling does bring up some videos. I went around the whole thing with wonder clips first so that It was easier with the iron and then reclipped after pressing. Best binding I've ever done.
My first visit to your site, great job!
I absolutely LOVE the pattern on the quilt showing in your opening demonstration about binding. Is this pattern available anywhere? It looks easy and completely fun🎉🎉🎉
Thanks for the demo!
there are 3 Boston Commons videos. Episodes 52, 54 and 55. I have not written it up yet but it is on my to do list.
Your value on that "blocks" quilt is great! (You didn't need black or white.) I especially appreciated the yellow - so hard to interpret yellow as dark.
WOW! I am so impressed with this method! I have a serger but I don't use it because if I break a thread, I don't know how to rethread it! Also, I don't know which is the "lower looper". I have been sewing more than 50 years, but I really don't know how do use my serger!
There are lots of videos on RUclips for using your serger. When you have time, take a look.
This was great! Also-did you do a tutorial on the quilt with “pld way” binding-tumbling blocks?
This is an interesting method and I should break out my serger to try it. I do something similar now but I do use school glue, binding sewn to front, slightly larger seam allowance on 2.5” wide binding. I flip to back, glue using stitching line and I sew down on the front in the ditch. I use a fine thread color matched in the bobbin, Wonderfil Invisafil. One really has to look closely to see the thread on the back.
A nifty idea. I do think I remember that Nancy Zieman did something similar many years ago.
Could you use a close zigzag stitch with the fusible thread in the bobbin if you don’t have a serger?
That fusible thread is amazing. I wish I was comfortable using the serger.
Binding with Insul-Bright. A lot of bulk make the edges unsightly. Help with finishing techniques.
I use the serpentine stitch for quilting- I never thought of using it on the binding. I always did it by hand, but my hands are past that, so have been using a zigzag. I did one using the serpentine today, and it looks swell.
I do not own a serger and I’m wondering if a short and narrow zigzag with fusible thread in the bobbin would work equally as well? Thank you for a great tutorial, and I look forward to your reply
I would do wide enough to measure 1/4". I tested it and it works.
@@theopinionatedquilter Thank you so very much for not only answering my question but for actually putting it the test!
That binding way the other person suggested to you is the perfect way of doing it according to my mother and grandmother and I’m 76 so the old timers new how to quilt much better than all the new timers that have tried to reinvent the wheel. With that method you can make your binding as wide as you like If you can sew at all the corners are so simple for a perfect miter I love it and have never found and one ever suggests it before. Needs to be shown more more often to give young new quilters a choice quilters were using that method over 100 years ago. I notice you didn’t really give it much attention maybe you didn’t really understand it when the other person showed it to you
I don't have a surger but do a similar method. I put my 2.25 binding on the back and when I stitch on the front I use the ditch foot and move my needle where it just catches the binding on the front by about 1/8". The ditch guide rides the edge of the binding.
Thanks for sharing your binding technique. But you assume that everyone has a serger. Since I don't, I guess I'll continue to do binding the way I usually do. I enjoy your videos, and you've helped me to look at some things from a different perspective.
Just put the fusible thread on a bobbin. Eleanor Burns showed this year's ago
For those of us without a serger, would this method also work with a regular, cheap machine? It seems like the essential element is using the fusible thread and not necessarily the type of machine. Or can you only use that type of thread with a serger? Love your results and it seems much easier so I hope it’ll work on my cheap Brother machine.
See episode 60. You can use an overlock stitch or a zig zag on a domestic machine.
Thats beautiful ❤
thanks
I wonder if this method could be used with a straight stitch machine using the overlock stitch since I don't have a serger & @ 94 ¹/² don't plan on investing in one. A Fellow Illinoisan
overlock stitch or zig zag
I have taught the same technique to my local guild. I found having a clear pressure foot on my serger really helped.
totally makes sense. Thanks for sharing.
For a new episode: For binding, I use the Folded Corner Clipper ruler to prep my binding strips (cut them into parallelograms) to make it easier to sew them together but have struggled with the ending. I do use the method where you cut the end so it overlaps by the width of the binding but I'd like to use the ruler to make that ending easier to figure out and sew. Can you try this and see what you get? Love your videos! Thanks.
The FCC is fantastic for binding. I'll share my tip on the final join. I'll had that I also use the Hot Hemmer to get perfect 45 creases and even foldbacks AND to measure the end.
When you come to the end of your binding: fold both pieces back on themselves and leave about 1/8" gap. (keeps binding from being flaccid on final join). CUT at crease on one end. Cut the second piece the binding width from crease for the overlap. Take right side binding (quilt toward you) and open, and face it right. Clip with your FCC. Take the left side point left, and clip with your FCC. Match clipped ends and sew. Perfect every time.
Try using a small Flange in your binding. When you sew down the binding in the ditch it disappears completely. I do like using the serger for binding. Floriani has a fusible thread in a larger spool. Great video, Thank you
The easiest way to bind that I’ve seen. Something I’ll have to pass along to my Quilting group. Could you use the sticky thread in the bobbin on a straight sewing machine?
It is made to be a bobbin thread but using a zig zag or overlock stitch rather than a straight stitch gives you more ironing surface.
This technique is great!
10:55 Is there a way to use the fusible thread if you do not have a serger?
see episode 60
I don’t have a server. Is there a different stitch I could use to initially sew on my binding to my quilt?? Thx Cindy F.
Can't wait to try this:)
Do you have a link to the fusible thread? I would love to try this method if I can figure out which is my lower looper on my serger. I am a beginner when it comes to using a serger.
A few suggestions for Contant, since you asked: I’d love to see you do some stitch and flip corners, also called connecting blocks by Mary Ellen Hopkins, also called snowballed corners. I love it that you tell us where to get our charts and how to figure our math. Another contact suggestion would be how to make your fabric fit when given small amounts with the kit so that if we cut it wrong, we don’t have to substitute something else. Several times I’ve had to pieces smaller pieces to make a block even though I did start with a large cuts first. Not always do the kids give us the correct way of cutting the fabric especially if we want to make fabric saving half square triangles. Also, how do you know ahead of time which direction to press? Your seems unless you use a pattern that spells it out. I like to create my own quilts, and if there’s several units in a block, I often have to open up seams and press in opposite directions, and still sometimes end up with twisted pressing. How do I accommodate matching up, pressing one way and the other two match nest and seams? Is it OK to clip the seam that was so in the wrong direction?
“Contact” should be read as “CONTENT”. She wants to know topics we need to learn.
Thank you for showing a different technique. My days of hand binding are over and I'm always looking for alternatives. Are you concerned about thread buildup (under the binding)? Have you ever tried Susie's Magic Binding? I've done it with great success and think it's just as fast. I'd be happy to share the way I do it. I did make a change or two from the video. I really look forward to Mondays and seeing what you do!
Love this method. Will definitely give it a try. One question... about how many spools did you use for your quilt? Thank you
Just the one, the cone is more economical.
Hi Maureen! For future content, I'd love to know if you have any tips for preventing your scrap fabric from fraying while it is in storage. I'd love to pre-cut my scraps so that they are ready to use as you described in episode 48. However I've found that I end up having to recut the fabric anyway because within a few weeks the edges have become too frayed. Any advice?
Also, while not quilting related, you've mentioned making dog beds. Would love to hear about those too :)
I would like to see videos that use up precut jelly rolls, I have an abundance of them (given to me as gifts) and I use them in bargello quilts but need I ideas on using pre-cuts from my stash.
I've done this before, but I usually put the fusible thread and a regular serger thread in the Looper. I felt like fusing the thread might weaken the original serger stitch since your Looper thread would be "melted" during ironing. That might have been an unfounded concern, but just in case, I used two threads in the Looper, and it worked fine. The fusible thread is pretty expensive, though!
Beautiful!
I don't recall seeing this method of binding in the past, I don't have a serger, would this work with this thread in the bobbin of my Juki? Contentwise, I think you're doing a fine job with what you have created thus far.
What are your serger settings for applying the binding? Thank you.