How to Sew a Binding on a Blanket?

Adding a binding to a blanket not only gives it a polished, professional look but also enhances its durability. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring your blanket edges are neat, secure, and beautifully finished.

What materials do you need for binding a blanket?

Essential Fabrics

The primary material you’ll need is the binding fabric itself. This should be a durable, tightly woven fabric that complements or contrasts with your blanket. Popular choices include cotton, polyester, or a poly-cotton blend. For a 2-inch wide finished binding, you’ll typically need about 1/4 to 1/3 yard of fabric per linear foot of the blanket’s perimeter.

You’ll also need the blanket itself, of course. Ensure it’s clean, pressed, and ready for binding.

Threads and Needles

Selecting the right thread is crucial for a lasting bind. Choose a thread that matches or complements your binding fabric. All-purpose polyester thread works well for most projects, but you might opt for cotton thread if you’re working with delicate fabrics. Have extra bobbins ready to avoid running out mid-project.

For hand sewing, sharp needles in various sizes are essential. Machine needles should be appropriate for the fabric weight – universal needles work for most bindings, but use ball-point needles for knit fabrics.

Cutting and Measuring Tools

A rotary cutter with a sharp blade will make cutting binding strips much easier and more precise than scissors. You’ll also need a cutting mat to protect your work surface. A clear acrylic ruler, at least 24 inches long, is indispensable for measuring and cutting straight lines.

Don’t forget a fabric marking tool, such as tailor’s chalk or a water-soluble fabric pen, for marking your cutting lines and seam allowances.

Pressing Equipment

A good iron and ironing board are essential for creating crisp folds in your binding and for pressing seams. A pressing cloth can be helpful when working with delicate or synthetic fabrics to prevent scorching.

Pins and Clips

You’ll need plenty of straight pins or quilting pins to secure your binding as you work. Alternatively, fabric clips are becoming increasingly popular for binding, as they don’t leave holes in the fabric and are easier to remove as you sew.

Optional but Helpful Tools

While not strictly necessary, some tools can make the binding process easier:

A binding foot for your sewing machine can help guide the binding evenly as you sew.
A walking foot attachment helps feed multiple layers of fabric evenly through your machine.
A bias tape maker can speed up the process of folding your binding strips if you’re making your own bias tape.

How do you choose the right binding fabric?

Selecting the Right Binding Fabric

Choosing the appropriate binding fabric is crucial for both the aesthetic appeal and durability of your blanket. Let’s explore the key factors to consider when making your selection.

Fabric Composition

The composition of your binding fabric should complement the blanket material. For cotton blankets, a cotton binding is often ideal. Polyester or poly-cotton blends work well for more durable, everyday blankets. For luxury items like silk or wool blankets, consider satin or silk bindings. Always ensure the binding fabric can withstand the same care instructions as the blanket itself.

Weight and Durability

The binding fabric should be sturdy enough to withstand repeated use and washing. A medium-weight fabric is usually a safe choice, as it’s neither too flimsy nor too bulky. Avoid very lightweight fabrics that might tear easily, or extremely heavy fabrics that could overpower the blanket’s edges.

Stretch vs. Woven

Consider whether a stretch or woven fabric is more suitable. Stretch fabrics can be forgiving and comfortable, especially for baby blankets or throws. However, they can be trickier to work with and may not provide as crisp an edge. Woven fabrics offer stability and a neat finish, making them ideal for most blanket types.

Color and Pattern Considerations

The binding color can make a significant impact on the blanket’s overall appearance. A contrasting color can create a bold frame, while a matching hue offers a subtle, seamless look. For patterned blankets, consider using a solid color that picks up one of the pattern’s shades. Alternatively, a patterned binding can add interest to a solid-colored blanket.

Texture and Feel

The texture of your binding should be pleasant to touch, especially for blankets that come into direct contact with skin. Soft, smooth fabrics are ideal for baby blankets and bed coverings. For decorative throws, you might opt for more textured fabrics to add visual interest.

Bias vs. Straight Grain

Decide whether to cut your binding on the bias (diagonally across the fabric grain) or on the straight grain. Bias-cut binding is more flexible and can navigate curves smoothly, making it ideal for rounded corners. Straight-grain binding is easier to cut and sew but works best for blankets with sharp corners.

Seasonal Considerations

If your blanket is seasonal, consider this when choosing your binding. Flannel or fuzzy fabrics might be perfect for winter blankets, while crisp cotton or linen bindings suit summer throws.

Testing Before Committing

Before cutting into your chosen fabric, test it by folding it as you would for binding. Check if it creates too much bulk at the corners and if it presses well. This simple step can save you from potential issues later in the project.

What are the different types of blanket bindings?

Single Fold Binding

This simple binding style involves folding the binding strip in half lengthwise and attaching it to the edge of the blanket. It’s a clean, streamlined look that works well for lightweight blankets or when you want a very thin edge. Single fold binding is relatively easy to apply but requires precise sewing to ensure the raw edge is fully enclosed on the back side.

Double Fold Binding

Double fold binding is perhaps the most popular and versatile option. It involves folding the binding strip twice – once lengthwise to enclose the raw edge, and then again to wrap around the blanket edge. This method creates a durable, neat finish on both sides of the blanket. It’s ideal for quilts and heavier blankets, providing a sturdy edge that can withstand frequent use and washing.

Flanged Binding

Flanged binding adds a decorative touch to your blanket. It’s created by folding the binding strip asymmetrically, so that when attached, a small “flange” or lip of fabric shows on one side of the blanket. This style adds visual interest and can be particularly striking when using a contrasting fabric. Flanged binding works well for decorative throws or baby blankets where you want a softer edge.

Self-Binding

Self-binding involves using the blanket’s backing fabric to create the binding. This method creates a seamless look and is especially useful when you want the binding to match the back of the blanket perfectly. To create a self-binding, you cut the backing fabric larger than the front, fold it over to the front, and stitch it down. This technique works well for simple blankets and can save on additional fabric costs.

Bias Tape Binding

Bias tape is a pre-made binding option that comes in various widths and colors. It’s cut on the bias (diagonal to the fabric’s grain), making it flexible and ideal for blankets with curved edges. Bias tape binding can be single fold or double fold and is often used for a quick, professional-looking finish. It’s particularly useful for beginners or when you need to bind a blanket quickly.

Scalloped Binding

For a more decorative edge, scalloped binding offers a charming, vintage-inspired look. This binding is cut with a scalloped edge and applied so that the scallops form a pretty border around the blanket. It’s more challenging to apply than straight bindings but can add a delightful touch to baby blankets or heirloom pieces.

Ruffled Binding

Ruffled binding adds a playful, feminine touch to blankets. It’s created by gathering a strip of fabric along one edge before attaching it to the blanket. This style works well for baby blankets, decorative throws, or any project where you want to add a soft, frilly edge. Ruffled binding can be time-consuming to create but offers a unique and charming finish.

Piped Binding

Piping involves encasing a cord in fabric and sewing it into the blanket’s edge. This creates a defined, structured edge that can add a professional, tailored look to your blanket. Piped binding works well for more formal throws or when you want to add a pop of contrasting color to your blanket’s edge.

How do you measure and cut the binding strips?

Measuring and Cutting Binding Strips

Accurate measurement and cutting are crucial for creating professional-looking blanket bindings. This process involves several steps, from determining the required length to cutting the strips with precision. Let’s break it down into manageable parts.

Calculating the Total Length

Before cutting, you need to determine how much binding you’ll need. Measure all four sides of your blanket and add them together. To this total, add an extra 10-12 inches for overlap and corners. This extra allowance ensures you have enough fabric to work with and join the ends neatly.

For example, if your blanket measures 40″ x 60″: 40″ + 40″ + 60″ + 60″ = 200″ 200″ + 12″ (allowance) = 212″ total binding needed

Determining Strip Width

The width of your strips depends on the desired final width of your binding and whether you’re using single or double fold binding. For a standard 1/4″ double fold binding, cut your strips 2.5″ wide. This allows for 1/4″ seam allowances on both sides of the blanket.

For single fold binding or wider bindings, adjust your calculations accordingly. Always add an extra 1/2″ to your desired finished width to account for seam allowances.

Preparing Your Fabric

If you’re using patterned fabric, consider how you want the pattern to appear on the binding. For stripes or directional prints, decide if you want them running parallel or perpendicular to the blanket edge.

Press your fabric well before cutting to ensure accurate measurements. If your fabric has a notable right and wrong side, make a mental note of which is which before you begin cutting.

Cutting Techniques

There are two main methods for cutting binding strips: using a rotary cutter or scissors.

Rotary Cutter Method:

Fold your fabric selvage to selvage, ensuring edges align perfectly.
Use a clear ruler to measure and mark your strip width.
Carefully cut along the marked line with a rotary cutter.
Continue measuring and cutting until you have enough strips.

Scissors Method:

Mark your strip width at regular intervals along the fabric edge.
Draw a line connecting these marks.
Cut carefully along the line with sharp fabric scissors.

While the scissors method works, the rotary cutter often provides more precise, straight cuts, especially for longer strips.

Cutting on the Bias

For curved edges or added stretch, consider cutting your binding on the bias (at a 45-degree angle to the fabric grain). To do this:

Fold your fabric diagonally, bringing the selvage to meet the raw edge.
Press this fold to create a crease.
Open the fabric and cut along this crease.
From this diagonal edge, measure and cut your strips as described above.

Bias-cut strips require more fabric but offer greater flexibility and a professional finish, especially for quilts or blankets with rounded corners.

Joining the Strips

Once all strips are cut, you’ll need to join them into one long continuous piece:

Place two strips right sides together at a 90-degree angle.
Sew diagonally across the overlapped corner.
Trim the excess fabric, leaving a 1/4″ seam allowance.
Press the seam open.

Repeat this process until all strips are joined into one long piece.

Final Preparation

After joining, press your binding strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. This creates a crisp fold that will make attaching the binding to your blanket easier.

What’s the best way to prepare your blanket edges?

Trimming and Squaring

The first step in preparing your blanket edges is to ensure they are straight and square. This is especially important if you’ve just finished quilting or if you’re working with a handmade blanket.

Lay your blanket flat on a large, clean surface.
Use a large square ruler to check that your corners are at right angles.
Trim any excess fabric using a rotary cutter and a long ruler, ensuring all edges are straight and even.
For quilts, make sure all layers (top, batting, and backing) are trimmed together to create a clean edge.

Remember, a perfectly square blanket will result in a neater binding and help prevent puckering or stretching during the binding process.

Stabilizing the Edges

Before attaching the binding, it’s wise to stabilize the edges of your blanket. This step is particularly important for knit fabrics, loosely woven materials, or quilts with bias edges.

Stitch around the entire perimeter of the blanket, about 1/8″ from the edge.
Use a slightly shorter stitch length than normal (about 2mm) for added stability.
If working with very stretchy fabrics, consider using a walking foot to prevent the edges from stretching as you sew.

This stabilizing stitch will help keep your blanket’s shape intact and make it easier to attach the binding evenly.

Pressing the Edges

Pressing your blanket edges can make a significant difference in how smoothly your binding lies.

Set your iron to the appropriate heat setting for your blanket fabric.
Gently press the edges of your blanket, being careful not to stretch or distort the fabric.
For quilts, press the backing and batting slightly towards the back. This will help create a neater transition when the binding is attached.

Use a pressing cloth if you’re working with delicate fabrics or if you’re concerned about shine marks from the iron.

Addressing Fullness or Ripples

If you notice any fullness or ripples along the edges of your blanket, now is the time to address them.

Lay the blanket flat and smooth out as many ripples as possible by hand.
Use pins or clips to hold any problem areas in place.
Consider machine basting these areas to keep them flat before adding the binding.

Remember, it’s much easier to deal with these issues now than to try and hide them under the binding later.

Marking for Mitered Corners

If you plan to create mitered corners on your binding, it’s helpful to mark these points in advance.

Measure and mark a point 1/4″ from each corner on all sides of the blanket.
Use a fabric marker or pins to clearly indicate these points.

These marks will serve as stopping and starting points when you’re attaching your binding, ensuring perfectly mitered corners.

Cleaning the Edges

Before you begin attaching your binding, give the edges of your blanket a final once-over.

Trim any loose threads.
Brush away any lint or debris.
If necessary, give the edges a light pressing one final time.

This ensures a clean surface for attaching your binding and prevents any unwanted bits from getting caught in your stitches.

How do you attach the binding to the blanket?

Positioning the Binding

Begin in the middle of one side of your blanket, not at a corner.
Open up your folded binding strip and align the raw edge of the binding with the raw edge of the blanket.
Leave a tail of about 8-10 inches unattached at the beginning. This will be used later to join the ends of the binding.

Pinning or Clipping

Secure the binding to the blanket using pins or fabric clips, placing them every 4-6 inches.
Make sure the binding lies flat against the blanket without any puckering or stretching.
When you reach a corner, stop pinning about 1/4 inch from the edge.

Sewing the First Side

Set your machine to a medium stitch length (about 2.5mm).
Begin sewing about 8-10 inches from where you started pinning, using a 1/4 inch seam allowance.
Backstitch at the beginning to secure your stitches.
Sew slowly and steadily, removing pins or clips as you go.

Creating Mitered Corners

Stop sewing 1/4 inch from the corner and backstitch.
Remove the blanket from the machine and fold the binding up at a 45-degree angle.
Then, fold it back down, aligning the raw edge with the next side of the blanket.
This creates a neat miter at the corner.
Pin in place and begin sewing again from the top edge.

Continuing Around the Blanket

Repeat the process for each side and corner until you’re about 12 inches from where you started.
Leave enough space to join the beginning and end of your binding.

Joining the Binding Ends

Overlap the beginning and end of your binding.
Trim the excess, leaving about an inch of overlap.
Open up both ends and place them right sides together at a 90-degree angle.
Mark a diagonal line from corner to corner and sew along this line.
Trim the excess, leaving a 1/4 inch seam allowance.
Press the seam open and refold the binding.

Finishing the First Side

Pin the joined section in place.
Sew the remaining section, overlapping your initial stitches by about an inch.
Backstitch to secure.

Pressing the Binding

Press the binding away from the blanket on the front side.
This creates a crisp edge and prepares the binding for the next step.

Folding and Securing the Back

Flip your blanket over to the back side.
Fold the binding over the raw edge, encasing it completely.
The folded edge should just cover your previous line of stitching.
Secure with pins or clips.

Hand Sewing Method

Thread a needle with a color matching your binding.
Use a slip stitch or ladder stitch to invisibly attach the binding to the back of the blanket.
Take small stitches, catching just a few threads of the blanket backing with each stitch.
Continue around all sides, paying extra attention to the corners to maintain the miter.

Machine Sewing Method

From the front of the blanket, stitch “in the ditch” where the binding meets the blanket.
Ensure your stitching on the back catches the folded edge of the binding.
Go slowly around corners to maintain accuracy.

Final Pressing

Once all stitching is complete, give your binding a final press.
Pay special attention to the corners, ensuring they lie flat and the miters are sharp.

What are the techniques for sewing mitered corners?

Preparing for the Miter

As you approach a corner while sewing your binding:

Stop stitching 1/4 inch from the edge of the blanket.
Backstitch to secure your stitches.
Remove the blanket from under the presser foot, leaving the needle down in the fabric.

Creating the Miter Fold

Lift the binding straight up, creating a 45-degree fold that aligns with the blanket edge.
Finger-press this fold to create a crease.
Now, bring the binding back down, aligning its raw edge with the next side of the blanket.
This creates a triangular flap at the corner.
The fold you’ve created should form a straight line from the corner at a 45-degree angle.

Securing the Miter

Place a pin through all layers at the corner to hold everything in place.
Double-check that your binding is lying flat and the raw edges are aligned.

Continuing the Seam

Begin stitching again at the top edge of the blanket.
Make sure to catch all layers in your stitching.
Continue sewing down this new side until you reach the next corner.

Repeating the Process

Repeat these steps for each corner of your blanket. Consistency is key for achieving a uniform look.

Finishing Touches for Machine-Sewn Bindings

If you’re finishing your binding by machine:

When you reach a corner on the final pass, stop with the needle down about 1 inch before the corner.
Lift the presser foot and pivot the blanket.
Fold the miter on the back side, ensuring it aligns with the front miter.
Continue sewing, catching the folded edge of the binding on the back.

Hand-Sewing Mitered Corners

For hand-sewn bindings:

Fold the binding to the back of the blanket.
At the corner, create a diagonal fold that mirrors the front miter.
Use a ladder stitch to secure the mitered fold in place.
Pay extra attention to the point of the miter, ensuring it’s sharp and well-secured.

Troubleshooting Mitered Corners

If your miters aren’t lying flat:

Check that you stopped and started exactly 1/4 inch from the edge when sewing.
Ensure your binding strips are cut to a consistent width.
Press the miters well after sewing to help them lie flat.

Advanced Technique: Continuous Mitered Binding

For a more advanced approach:

Cut your binding strips on the bias.
Sew the entire binding to the front of the blanket in one continuous strip, mitering the corners as you go.
Join the ends with a diagonal seam before folding to the back.
This method creates a smoother, more flexible binding, especially good for quilts.

Practice Makes Perfect

Mitered corners can be challenging at first, but they become easier with practice. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempts aren’t perfect. You might find it helpful to practice on small fabric squares before tackling your full blanket project.

How do you finish and secure the binding?

Joining the Binding Ends

Before you can finish your binding, you need to join the beginning and end seamlessly:

Stop sewing about 12 inches before you reach your starting point.
Lay both loose ends of the binding flat along the blanket edge, overlapping them.
Trim the excess, leaving about an inch of overlap.
Open both ends and place them right sides together at a 90-degree angle.
Draw a diagonal line from corner to corner and sew along this line.
Trim the excess, leaving a 1/4 inch seam allowance, then press the seam open.
Refold the binding and finish sewing it to the blanket front.

Pressing the Binding

Proper pressing is key to a neat finish:

Press the binding away from the blanket on the front side.
This creates a crisp edge and prepares the binding for wrapping to the back.
Be careful not to stretch the binding as you press.

Wrapping the Binding to the Back

Now it’s time to secure the binding on the reverse side:

Flip your blanket over to the back.
Fold the binding over the raw edge, encasing it completely.
The folded edge should just cover your previous line of stitching.
Use pins or clips to hold the folded binding in place.

Hand-Sewing Method

For an invisible finish, many prefer to hand-sew the binding:

Thread a needle with thread matching your binding color.
Start at a corner, hiding your knot between the binding and blanket.
Use a ladder stitch or slip stitch, taking small stitches that catch just a few threads of the blanket backing.
Work your way around the blanket, keeping your stitches even and tension consistent.
Pay extra attention to the corners, ensuring the miters are neat and secure.
When you reach your starting point, make a few tiny stitches in place and knot off securely.

Machine-Sewing Method

For a quicker finish, you can machine-sew the binding:

From the front of the blanket, align the edge of your presser foot with the binding edge.
Stitch “in the ditch” where the binding meets the blanket front.
Ensure your stitching on the back catches the folded edge of the binding.
Use a thread color that matches your binding for a neater appearance.
Go slowly around corners to maintain accuracy and keep your stitching even.

Securing the Corners

Whether hand or machine sewing, corners need special attention:

When you reach a corner, ensure the miter on the back matches the front.
For hand-sewing, take a few extra stitches at the corner point to secure it well.
If machine-sewing, pivot carefully at the corners to maintain a straight stitch line.

Final Pressing

Once all stitching is complete, press your binding one last time:

Press from both the front and back of the blanket.
Pay special attention to the corners, ensuring they lie flat and the miters are sharp.
Use steam if your fabric allows, to help set the stitches and shape the binding.

Quality Check

Before considering your project complete:

Inspect all sides of the binding for any gaps or loose areas.
Check that the corners are neat and securely stitched.
Ensure the binding width is consistent all around the blanket.
Trim any stray threads.

What are some tips for achieving a professional-looking result?

Precision in Cutting

The foundation of a great binding starts with precise cutting:

Use a rotary cutter with a sharp blade for clean, straight edges.
Invest in a high-quality cutting mat and clear ruler for accurate measurements.
Cut your binding strips slightly wider than needed, then trim to exact width after pressing.
For striped or patterned bindings, cut carefully to ensure patterns align at the seams.

Consistent Seam Allowances

Maintaining consistent seam allowances is crucial for a neat finish:

Use a 1/4-inch quilting foot or mark a guideline on your machine’s throat plate.
Practice sewing a straight 1/4-inch seam before starting on your actual project.
Periodically check your seam allowance as you sew to ensure it remains consistent.
If your machine tends to “eat” fabric corners, start sewing using a leader cloth.

Mastering Mitered Corners

Well-executed mitered corners can make or break the overall look:

Stop exactly 1/4 inch from the edge when approaching a corner.
Use a seam gauge or mark corner stopping points in advance for precision.
Finger-press your miters before sewing to ensure sharp, consistent folds.
Practice mitered corners on scrap fabric until you’re confident in your technique.

Joining Binding Ends Seamlessly

A smooth, almost invisible join where the binding ends meet is a hallmark of professional work:

Leave a generous amount of unattached binding (at least 12 inches) when starting.
Use the diagonal seam method for joining ends, which distributes bulk more evenly.
Press the joining seam open to reduce bulk.
Double-check that the joined section lies flat before final stitching.

Pressing for Perfection

Proper pressing can dramatically improve your binding’s appearance:

Press seams as you go, not just at the end.
Use a hot iron with steam for crisp folds (if suitable for your fabric).
Press binding away from the blanket on the front side before folding to the back.
Consider using a pressing stick for hard-to-reach areas or to avoid pressing marks on the blanket front.

Choosing the Right Thread

Thread choice can significantly impact the final look:

Use high-quality thread that matches or complements your binding color.
Consider using invisible thread for machine top-stitching if you want the stitches to disappear.
For hand-sewing, use a thin thread that blends well with the binding.

Mastering Hand-Stitching Techniques

If hand-finishing your binding, refine your technique:

Use a fine needle and take small, evenly spaced stitches.
Practice the ladder stitch or slip stitch until your stitches are nearly invisible.
Use a thimble to protect your finger and maintain consistent tension.
Work in good lighting to ensure accuracy.

Dealing with Bulk

Managing bulk in your binding leads to a smoother finish:

Grade your seams by trimming the batting slightly shorter than the blanket top and backing.
Trim corner bulk before attaching binding.
Use a wooden pressing tool to open seams fully without adding extra bulk.

Finishing Touches

Small details can make a big difference:

Bury thread ends within the binding or blanket layers instead of knotting on the surface.
Use a lint roller to remove any threads or debris before considering the project complete.
Give the entire blanket a final press, paying special attention to the binding.

Consistency is Key

Maintain consistency throughout the binding process:

Use the same method for all corners and edges.
Keep your binding width uniform around the entire blanket.
Maintain even tension as you sew to prevent puckering or stretching.

How can you troubleshoot common binding issues?

Uneven Binding Width

If your binding appears wider on one side of the blanket than the other:

Check your cutting technique: Ensure you’re cutting strips at a consistent width.
Review your folding method: Make sure you’re folding the binding evenly when wrapping it around the edge.
Adjust your seam allowance: Use a guide or foot on your sewing machine to maintain a consistent distance from the edge.

Solution: Re-measure and re-cut strips if necessary. Practice folding and pinning before sewing. Consider using a binding foot for your machine to ensure consistent width.

Puckered Binding

Puckering can occur when the binding is stretched during application:

Check your fabric grain: Binding cut on the bias is less likely to pucker.
Examine your sewing tension: Overly tight stitches can cause puckering.
Consider your pinning technique: Pinning too far apart can allow fabric to shift.

Solution: Cut binding on the bias if possible. Adjust machine tension and use plenty of pins or clips to hold the binding in place while sewing.

Bulky Corners

Bulky corners can be unsightly and difficult to sew through:

Inspect your mitering technique: Ensure you’re folding corners correctly.
Check seam allowances: Excess fabric at corners contributes to bulk.
Examine batting thickness: Very thick batting can create bulky corners.

Solution: Trim batting at corners before binding. Practice precise mitering technique. Consider using a wooden point turner to shape corners neatly.

Visible Stitches on the Front

If your stitches are showing on the front when you intended them to be hidden:

Review your stitching line: Ensure you’re catching the binding consistently on the back.
Check binding width: If it’s too narrow, it’s harder to catch cleanly from the front.
Examine your thread color: A contrasting thread will be more visible.

Solution: Use a walking foot to feed layers evenly. Consider hand-sewing for more control. Choose a thread color that blends with your binding.

Wavy Edges

Wavy edges can occur when the binding is applied with uneven tension:

Check for stretching: Avoid pulling the binding as you sew.
Examine your pressing technique: Inadequate pressing can lead to waviness.
Review your cutting method: Strips cut off-grain may stretch unevenly.

Solution: Pin or clip binding in place before sewing. Press thoroughly at each step. Ensure binding strips are cut on-grain or on the bias.

Gaps in Hand-Stitching

Gaps in hand-stitching can detract from the overall finish:

Examine your stitch length: Stitches that are too long can leave gaps.
Check your thread tension: Loose stitches may not hold the binding securely.
Review your needle size: A needle that’s too large can leave visible holes.

Solution: Use smaller, more frequent stitches. Maintain consistent thread tension. Choose a fine needle appropriate for your fabric weight.

Binding Separating from Blanket

If your binding is coming loose from the blanket:

Check your initial seam: Ensure it’s securely stitched with backstitching at start and end.
Examine wear patterns: High-stress areas may need reinforcement.
Review your thread choice: Weak or inappropriate thread can break over time.

Solution: Reinforce initial stitching. Consider double-stitching high-stress areas. Use strong, appropriate thread for your fabric type.

Uneven Mitered Corners

Mismatched or uneven mitered corners can diminish the overall appearance:

Check your stopping point: Ensure you’re stopping precisely 1/4 inch from each edge.
Review your folding technique: Consistent 45-degree folds are crucial.
Examine your pressing method: Inadequate pressing can lead to sloppy corners.

Solution: Mark stopping points before sewing. Use a template for consistent 45-degree folds. Press corners thoroughly before and after stitching.

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