90% of the time I prefer to hand stitch my bindings, but there’s some quilts that require a machine stitched quilt binding. This is how I machine stitch a quilt binding:

Machine Stitching a Quilt Binding - AmysCreativeSide.com

First you need to attach your binding to the quilt back, when hand stitching I attach it to the front, but to machine stitch I like to see exactly where I am putting my needle as I stitch.

Take the quilt to the ironing board, and press the binding away from the back, so that you can easily fold it over to the front.

Machine Stitching a Quilt Binding - AmysCreativeSide.com

At the machine, test the stitches that you would like to use. It can be decorative, or utilitarian. It will depend on your machine entirely, as to the stitches that work best. I usually fold a small piece of fabric a few times to emulate the edge of binding on a quilt and test the width and length of the stitches that look like a good fit. I have found a X-blanket stitch that works well for me.

 

Start on one of the sides of your quilt, away from the corners. Stop as often as needed to make sure that you are covering your seam line with the binding.

Machine Stitching a Quilt Binding - AmysCreativeSide.com

As you arrive at a corner, stop and fold the corner. Secure it with a few pins, and find a stiletto if you have one. It’s a handy pointy tool that extends the reach of your fingers in these tight spots!

Machine Stitching a Quilt Binding - AmysCreativeSide.com

Stitch all the way into the corner, allowing the needle to catch as much of the binding fabric as possible. Then with your needle down, pivot. When your binding is complete, I suggest revisiting the corners and whip stitching them if necessary.

Machine Stitching a Quilt Binding - AmysCreativeSide.com

Continue on your way, removing the pin once you’ve stitched a couple of  stitches to keep things in place.

Machine Stitching a Quilt Binding - AmysCreativeSide.com

You will continue around in the same manner at each corner until your quilt is complete.  An example of my stitches:

Machine Stitching a Quilt Binding - AmysCreativeSide.com

The finished quilt, ready for snuggles on the couch, or in a stroller!

Machine Stitching a Quilt Binding - AmysCreativeSide.com

Do you have a favorite way to bind a quilt? I’d love to learn more about it in the comments!

Happy Quilting –

Amy