Binding is a quick and easy way to finish an edge with a neat trim or pop of colour.
You can cut and make your own bias binding so that your fabrics match or you can buy pre-cut/folded binding ready to use.
There are 2 methods I can advise for attaching bias binding to a straight edge.
Method 1 includes HAND SEWING the final edge which I find is the neatest way.
Method 2 is to TOPSTITCH the final edge which will be visible so it is important to create a neat finish.
NOTE: In this tutorial I am using pre-folded cotton binding for a contracting pink edge. If you are making your own binding just press edges of your binding strip to meet in the center with a hot iron.
Method 1 - Hand sewn finish
Lay binding down on top of your fabric RIGHT sides together edge to edge
SEW along using the crease line as a guide
Fold and PRESS binding over the seam
FOLD binding over the edge to the WRONG side of your fabric and PRESS
Fold raw edge of binding under and HAND SEW invisibly with a ladder stitch.
If you do well the stitching will be unseen
Method 2 - Topstitch finish
Lay binding down on the WRONG/UNDER side of your fabric edge to edge
SEW along the crease line as a guide
Trim seam allowance down a little
Fold binding over slightly more than half to cover the visible seam, PRESS and CLIP or PIN
STITCH in the ditch on the WRONG side of the fabric. This stitch should catch the binding on the underside.
Stitching in the ditch neatly takes practice!
I hope that you found this tutorial helpful, if so please drop a comment below.
The project in the photos is from my Topless Greystoke sun hat tutorial.
If you are interested in making your own bias binding see HERE
