• 6 Simple Steps To Create A Flange Quilt Binding

    Posted by Lukas Kowalewski

    Flange Quilt Binding

     

    One of the best ways to accentuate your entire quilt and make it pop is with flange binding. For new quilters that may not be familiar. Flange binding edges your quilt, and it serves as a colourful “frame” for your quilt. 


    To create flange quilt binding, you must sew together two fabric strips to create the binding strip. If you’re still wondering how to make binding for a quilt, you are not alone! In this post, we will explain how to make quilt binding in a few simple steps. Read on to learn more. 

    Determine the Length of Binding You Need

    You will first need to assess how much binding you need. First, you should add the measurements from all the sides to your quilt. To account for the seams, corners, and finishing, add another 12 inches. The final number is the length of binding you need. 


    Then, divide that total measurement by the 42 inches to determine the number of strips that you need. It’s often a good idea to cut an extra strip or two just in case. Next, you must cut 4 of the binding and the flange fabrics. 

    Quilt Fabric Calculator 

    You must calculate the strip width. Quilt flange binding is composed of two strips of fabric sewn together with a ¼”  seam. You can also have a ⅛” flange, and in that case, you would cut the fabric ¼ inch wider than the binding fabric. For the wide binding, cut the binding trips to 3” and sew it to the quilt with a ⅜” seam. Use those numbers to calculate the width of your flange binding. 


    For example, for a 3” binding you need a total unsewn flange quilt binding width of 3 1/2” to account for the ¼” seam allowance. If you want some of the flange fabric to peak out, then it must be wider than the binding fabric. In our example, we cut the binding strip 1 ½” wide and the flange strips 2” wide. 

    Sew the Binding Together

    After you have all of your fabric strips for each colour ready, you should sew them together. Use a mitered joint, and trim and press the seams open. Repeat this step wit the flange fabric. 


    Connect the Binding and Flange 

    Next, it is time to sew the binding and flange together. Use a ¼” seam, and press the seam toward whichever fabric is darker. Ensure that you match the seams that join the strips on the ends. 

    Bind the Quilt 

    For a flange binding, you sew it on the back of the quilt first. Lay the binding on the back of the quilt and place the flange face down. Align all of the raw edges of the binding to the raw edges of the quilt. Miter the corners as you attach the binding to the quilt. After completing the binding on the back of the quilt, wrap it around to the front. 

    Sew the Flange 

    Finish up your flange quilt binding by sewing the binding to the front of the quilt. Many choose to hand sew this part, or by stitching in the ditch between the binding and flange fabrics. Some others may stitch on the flange to the side of where the two strips meet. Whichever method you choose will result in a seam line next to the binding. This looks incredible and clean in the end!

    Try Your Very Own Flange Binding 

    Using the six simple steps above you will learn how to make binding or a quilt. Flange binding adds a unique, clean touch to a quilt project. One thing that makes flange binding even simpler is having the right tools and supplies on hand. For the most affordable, highest quality precut fabric, yardage, supplies, and patterns head to runawayquilting.com

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