Quilt Binding 101 - Part One
Preparing Your Fabric for Quilt Binding: Essential Steps for a Flawless Finish
Are you ready to embark on the exciting journey of quilt binding? Before you start cutting, it's crucial to properly prepare your fabric for a flawless finish. Let's dive into the essential steps to ensure your fabric is in prime condition:
Step 1: Pressing for Perfection
Begin by pressing your selected fabric to eliminate any stubborn wrinkles and creases. I personally rely on the winning combination of my beloved Oliso Iron and the magical starch spray. This dynamic duo guarantees a smooth and wrinkle-free surface, setting the stage for precise and professional-looking binding.
Start by pressing the fabric on the wrong side, gently gliding the iron to remove any major creases. Then, flip the fabric over and press the right side, smoothing out any remaining wrinkles. Pay special attention to the edges and corners to ensure they're well-pressed and ready for the binding process.
Step 2: Achieving Squareness
Now it's time to square up your fabric, a crucial step to ensure accurate and even quilt binding. Measure diagonally from corner to corner and confirm that the measurements are equal. If they're not, make adjustments until your fabric forms a perfect square. This precision will contribute to the overall professional appearance of your binding.
Step 3: Banishing Selvages and Loose Threads
To achieve a clean and polished finish, it's essential to trim off the selvages—the tightly woven edges—of your fabric. Utilize a rotary cutter to carefully remove them, as selvages can cause bulk and affect the overall appearance of your binding. Additionally, take a moment to inspect your fabric for any loose threads or stray fibers. Remove them to ensure a flawless and professional final result.
Perfecting the Cut: Tools and Techniques for Precise Binding Strips
Now that you've prepped your fabric, it's time to dive into the cutting stage of your quilt binding process. To ensure accurate and professional-looking strips, let's explore some options and techniques:
The Standard Setup: For a reliable and familiar approach, I often rely on my trusty Omnigrid Non-Slip quilter's Ruler, a versatile 6" x 24" acrylic ruler, along with my regular rotary cutter. This tried-and-true combination allows for precise measurements and smooth cuts.
The Boujee Upgrade: If you're ready to take your cutting game to the next level, consider investing in the Creative Grids Stripology XL Ruler. This slotted acrylic ruler offers predetermined measurements for efficient cutting. However, it's important to note that squaring up your fabric may be more challenging with this ruler. Additionally, the cutting slots are limited to 1/2 inch increments, so if you're aiming for specific measurements like 2.25" strips, this option may not be ideal.
The Accessorized Advantage: Let's talk about the TrueCut cutting system! If you haven't discovered this gem yet, you're in for a treat. I personally utilize the 6.5 x 24.5 inch TrueCut ruler in combination with the Comfort Cutter from The Grace Company. This dynamic duo is designed to deliver precise and secure cuts every time. The TrueCut ruler features a unique raised edge, known as the TrueCut Ruler Track, that adds extra stability and safety to your cutting process. It provides a larger surface area for the rotary blade to rest against, preventing slipping and ensuring a steady cut. The ruler's raised edge doesn't alter your measurements, making it a practical and efficient choice. When used in conjunction with the TrueCut cutter, the track on the ruler interlocks with the cutter's Cutter Guide, keeping your cuts on track and enhancing overall accuracy. If you're interested in trying any of the Grace products, you can use my coupon code "Emily20" at checkout.
By selecting the cutting setup that resonates with you, whether it's the standard, the boujee, or the accessorized approach, you'll be equipped to create precise and professional quilt binding strips. Remember, the right tools can make all the difference in achieving clean and flawless cuts.
As you embark on this cutting adventure, be mindful of your technique. Maintain a steady grip on your ruler, apply even pressure while cutting, and ensure your fabric remains flat and secure throughout the process. With practice and a keen eye for detail, you'll soon be cutting binding strips like a pro.
Safety First: Tips to Ensure a Safe Cutting Experience
When it comes to cutting your quilt binding strips, it's important to prioritize safety. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
Step 1: Sharp Blade, Smooth Cuts
Before you begin, make sure your rotary cutter is equipped with a fresh, sharp blade. A dull blade can cause slips and uneven cuts, compromising the quality of your binding strips. Regularly replace your blades to ensure clean and precise cuts.
Step 2: Take Your Time
Cutting fabric requires concentration and attention to detail. Avoid rushing through the process. Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to achieving accurate and uniform strips. By taking your time, you reduce the risk of accidental slips and potential injuries.
Step 3: Close the Blade
Whenever you set your rotary cutter down, remember to close the blade. This simple habit prevents accidental cuts and ensures a safer work environment. Develop the habit of closing the blade immediately after each use, even if it's just for a brief moment.
Step 4: Proper Footwear
When working with sharp tools like rotary cutters, it's essential to wear appropriate footwear. Opt for closed-toe shoes or slippers that provide protection in case you accidentally drop the rotary cutter. By choosing suitable footwear, you add an extra layer of safety to your quilting workspace.
Step 5: Keep Kids and Pets at a Distance
To create a secure environment, it's crucial to keep children and pets away from your cutting area. The rotary cutter and sharp blades can pose a potential hazard, so ensure that they are safely out of reach during your cutting sessions.
Stay tuned for the upcoming Part 3 of the Quilt Binding 101 series! In this next installment, we'll dive deeper into the final steps of binding your quilt, covering essential techniques and tips to achieve a professional and polished finish.
We'll explore various binding styles, including single-fold and double-fold bindings, and discuss the pros and cons of each. You'll learn how to attach the binding to your quilt, miter corners for clean and neat edges, and securely finish the binding ends.
Whether you're a beginner looking to master the art of binding or an experienced quilter seeking new techniques, Part 3 will provide you with valuable insights and step-by-step guidance. Join us on this quilting journey as we unravel the secrets to beautifully bound quilts!
Don't forget to subscribe to my newsletter or follow me on social media to be notified when Part 3 is released. Get ready to take your quilting skills to the next level and create stunning finished quilts with confidence. Stay tuned, and happy quilting!