How to Bind a Blanket

Today I'm going to show you how I bind a blanket.

This is part of a three part series. Last week I showed you How to Tie a Blanket and next week I'll show you how to Build Your Own Quilting Frames.

Last week, the blanket I shared did not have binding. I basically sewed it, right sides together and then flipped it right side out and sewed the hole closed. But a bound blanket looks much nicer, even if it does take a little more time.

I tack down the back of the blanket with the right side down. Then add batting and then add the top of the blanket right side up. Then tie it as I showed you last week.

How to Bind a Blanket:

Step 1: Once your blanket is tied, trim the top layer of fabric all the way around. I took off somewhere between a 1/2 inch and an inch.

Step 2: Fold up the bottom fabric as shown.

Step 3: Fold up one more time.

I thread my needle, pulling the needle to the middle of the thread and tie both ends of the string together.

Step 4: Insert your needle so that the knot is hidden behind the top fold. {You will probably have to unfold it a bit} Pull the needle through.

Step 5: Now I insert the needle, grabbing a small part of the top of the blanket. Pull the needle through.

Step 6: Insert your needle back into the binding close to the same spot that you just attached it to the blanket. Thread it through the binding about 1/2 inch.


Repeat these steps 5 & 6 over and over until you run out of string or until you reach a corner. As you go you will have to continue to fold over the fabric. 

I don't know if there is a right way to do corners, but this is how I do them.

I begin by folding over the next side of the blanket.

Then I fold under the top of the fold so that it is mitered. Then I sew it in place.

Continue all the way around the blanket. It took me a couple hours to bind a small baby blanket.

Be sure to check back next week. I'll show you how I made my own quilting frames.