Flange Binding

My favorite binding is a hand-stitched binding. But if I want to speed up the process with a machine-stitched binding, my favorite is a flange binding or 2-color binding. That’s what I used on my Seeing Stars Quilt-along quilt.

Here is how I do it.

Cut

I cut the binding fabric in 1.25 inch wide strips.

I cut the contrasting small flange fabric in 1.5 inch strips.

Sew

Sew each of these colors separately into long strips just like you would a regular binding. Then sew the two long strips into one long binding strip. it will measure 2.25 inches wide.

Press

Press the long seam allowance toward the binding color. Be careful to fully open this seam.

Then press the strip in half just like you normally would for a regular binding. You will create the tiny flange.

Sew to BACK of quilt

Apply the binding to the back of the quilt with the tiny flange side against the quilt. Sew with a 1/4 inch seam.

Carefully match the flange seam allowance when making the final join. I use a pin through the seam on both pieces. Stitch through where the pin marks the intersection.

Turn to front

Turn the binding to the front of the quilt. You can press if you wish. I prefer not pressing.

Stitch in the ditch

Stitch in the ditch between the flange and the binding. Match the top thread to the flange color and the bobbin thread to the backing fabric of the quilt.

The low side of the ditch will be on the flange.

Carefully match the corners. I pin and use clips to hold the corners in place as I stitch.

Looks great and is nearly invisible on both front and back.

Quilt Every Day!

by Mary Beth Krapil