Choosing and Preparing Your Fabric and Binding Materials
When it comes to sewing a blanket with binding, selecting the right fabric and binding materials is crucial to the success of your project. The fabric you choose for your blanket should be cozy, durable, and suited to the intended use of the blanket. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when choosing your fabric:
- Weight and warmth: Consider the desired weight and warmth of the blanket. For a cozy winter blanket, opt for thicker fabrics like flannel or fleece. For a lighter summer blanket, cotton or linen will be more comfortable.
- Durability: Blankets often withstand regular use and washing, so it’s important to choose a fabric that can withstand the test of time. Look for fabrics with a tight weave and good quality.
- Design and pattern: Pick a fabric that speaks to your personal style and the intended recipient of the blanket. Whether you prefer solid colors, vibrant prints, or soothing patterns, there is a fabric out there to suit every taste.
Once you have chosen the perfect fabric for your blanket, it’s time to select the right binding materials. The binding serves both a functional and decorative purpose, so it’s important to choose materials that complement your fabric. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Material: Binding can be made from various materials, including cotton, satin, or even faux leather. Consider the desired look and feel of your blanket when selecting the binding material.
- Color and width: Choose a binding color that complements or contrasts with your fabric, depending on the look you want to achieve. Additionally, consider the width of the binding. Wider bindings provide a bolder appearance, while narrower bindings offer a more delicate finish.
- Quantity: Calculate the amount of binding needed for your blanket by measuring the perimeter of the blanket and adding a few extra inches for allowances.
Before you begin sewing, it’s essential to prepare your fabric and binding materials. Pre-wash and iron your fabric to prevent any unwanted shrinkage or wrinkles. If using cotton binding, it’s a good idea to give it a quick press with an iron as well to ensure it lays flat during the sewing process.
By carefully selecting and preparing your fabric and binding materials, you’ll set yourself up for a successful sewing project and create a beautiful and functional blanket that will stand the test of time.
Preparing Your Sewing Machine and Workspace
Before you start sewing your blanket with binding, it’s essential to prepare your sewing machine and workspace. Proper preparation will ensure smooth and efficient stitching throughout the project. Follow these steps to get your sewing machine and workspace ready:
1. Clean and oil your sewing machine: Start by cleaning any dust or lint from your sewing machine. Use a small brush or a lint roller to remove any debris from the bobbin case, feed dogs, and sewing area. Next, apply a few drops of sewing machine oil to the designated areas according to your machine’s instructions. This will keep the machine running smoothly and prevent any unnecessary friction.
2. Change the needle: Consider replacing the needle with a fresh one. Needles can become dull or bent over time, affecting the quality of your stitches. Choose a needle suitable for your fabric type and weight. Use a screwdriver or the appropriate tool to remove the old needle and carefully insert the new one, making sure it is properly secured.
3. Thread the machine: Prepare your sewing machine by threading it properly. Follow the instructions provided in your machine’s manual for correct threading. Make sure the thread is securely placed through the tension discs, take-up lever, and needle. Test the machine by turning the handwheel, ensuring the thread moves smoothly without any snags or tangles.
4. Set the stitch length and width: Adjust the stitch length and width as desired for your project. For sewing blanket binding, a straight stitch is commonly used. However, you may choose to experiment with different stitches to add a decorative touch. Test the stitches on a scrap fabric to ensure they are to your liking before proceeding.
5. Prepare your workspace: Clear your workspace of any clutter to create a comfortable working environment. Ensure you have ample lighting to see your stitches clearly. Set up a cutting mat, ruler, and fabric scissors nearby for easy access during the sewing process. Having a clean and organized workspace will help you stay focused and work efficiently.
By taking the time to properly prepare your sewing machine and workspace, you’ll minimize the chances of interruptions and errors as you sew your blanket with binding. This preparation ensures that your machine is in optimal condition for a smooth and enjoyable sewing experience.
Cutting and Measuring Your Blanket and Binding
Once you have your fabric and binding materials ready, the next step in sewing a blanket with binding is to cut and measure them. Accurate measurements and clean cuts will ensure that your blanket and binding fit together perfectly. Here’s how to proceed:
1. Measure the blanket: Start by measuring the length and width of the blanket you want to bind. Use a fabric measuring tape or ruler to obtain precise measurements. Add an additional 1-2 inches to each side to allow for the binding to overlap and cover the raw edges of the fabric.
2. Mark and trim the fabric: Once you have your measurements, use a fabric marker or chalk to mark the dimensions on your fabric. Double-check the markings to ensure accuracy. With a sharp pair of fabric scissors, carefully trim the fabric along the marked lines. Take your time and make clean, straight cuts to achieve professional-looking results.
3. Measure and cut the binding: Determine the length of binding required for each side of the blanket by adding up the lengths of the corresponding edges. Add a few extra inches to accommodate for joining the ends and making a neat finish. Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the required length, and then cut the binding strips to the desired width. It is common to cut binding strips at 2.5 inches wide for most projects.
4. Join the binding strips: If your blanket requires more than one strip of binding, join the strips together to create a continuous length of binding. Place two strips at a right angle, with the ends overlapping by approximately 1 inch. Sew a diagonal line from one corner to the opposite corner to join the strips. Trim any excess fabric and press the seam open for a smooth finish.
5. Prepare the binding: With your fabric scissors, make small snips along one edge of the binding strip at regular intervals. These snips, called notches, will help the binding bend smoothly around the corners of the blanket later on.
By carefully measuring and cutting your blanket and binding, you’ll ensure a proper fit and a polished final result. Take your time during this step to achieve accurate measurements and clean cuts. Remember, precision is key when it comes to sewing a blanket with binding.
Attaching the Binding to Your Blanket
Attaching the binding to your blanket is a crucial step that will give it a polished and finished look. Follow these steps to properly attach the binding:
1. Align and pin the binding: Start by aligning one edge of the binding strip with the raw edge of your blanket. Make sure the right sides of the fabric and binding are facing each other. Pin the binding in place every few inches, ensuring it lies flat and smooth along the entire edge of the blanket. Be careful not to stretch or distort the fabric or binding while pinning.
2. Sew the binding: Using a sewing machine, start sewing the binding to the blanket, beginning a few inches away from one of the corners. Use a ¼ inch seam allowance, sewing through all layers of fabric and binding. Remove the pins as you sew, being careful not to sew over them. Continue sewing along the entire length of the blanket, stopping a few inches before reaching the next corner.
3. Pivot at the corners: When you approach a corner, stop stitching a few inches away. Fold the binding diagonally, away from the blanket, to create a neat mitered corner. Then, fold it back over itself to continue along the next edge. Pin the folded corner in place to secure it. Resume sewing from the corner, stitching along the next edge. Repeat this process for each corner of the blanket.
4. Join the ends of the binding: Once you reach the starting point, stop stitching a few inches before reaching the end of the binding. Overlap the loose end of the binding with the starting point, ensuring they meet evenly. Mark and trim any excess binding if necessary. Open the binding ends and fold back the raw edges. Pin in place, aligning the folded edges. Sew across the overlapped ends, securing them together.
5. Press the binding: After sewing the binding to the blanket, press the binding away from the blanket using a warm iron. This will help set the stitches and create a crisp finish. Be careful not to press directly on the binding if using synthetic materials, as they may melt or distort under high heat.
Attaching the binding to your blanket requires precision and attention to detail. Take your time, ensuring the binding is aligned and sewn securely throughout the process. By following these steps, you’ll achieve a professional-looking outcome, showcasing the beauty of your handmade blanket.
Mitering the Corners
Creating neatly mitered corners is an essential step in sewing a blanket with binding, as it gives the finished product a clean and polished look. Here’s how you can miter the corners of your blanket:
1. Sew until close to the corner: Begin sewing the binding to the blanket, following the previous steps, but stop stitching a few inches before reaching the corner. Leave the needle in the fabric and lift the presser foot to pivot the blanket.
2. Fold and press the binding: Fold the binding up and away from the blanket, creating a 45-degree angle fold at the corner. The raw edge of the binding should align with the next edge of the blanket. Use your fingers or an iron to crease the fold and create a crisp corner.
3. Fold the binding back: Fold the binding back down, aligning it with the edge of the next side of the blanket. The fold should create a clean diagonal line from the corner. The folded edge of the binding should now be flush with the edge of the blanket.
4. Pin the corner: Secure the mitered corner in place by inserting a pin through all layers of the fabric and binding. This will help keep the corner flat and aligned as you continue sewing.
5. Continue sewing: Lower the presser foot and resume sewing from the corner, following the next edge of the blanket. Make sure to remove the pin before stitching over it. Repeat this process for each corner of the blanket.
6. Press the corners: Once all the corners are mitred and the binding is sewn around the entire blanket, press the corners using an iron. Gently press the folded corners to set the creases and ensure they lay flat.
Mitering the corners of your blanket with binding requires precision and meticulous attention to detail. This technique creates a clean and professional finish, adding a touch of elegance to your handmade blanket. Take your time and practice the technique to achieve perfectly mitered corners that will impress anyone who sees your completed project.
Sewing the Binding to Your Blanket
After mitering the corners of your blanket, it’s time to sew the binding securely in place. Properly sewing the binding will ensure that it stays attached and provides a durable finish. Follow these steps to sew the binding to your blanket:
1. Start sewing: Begin sewing the binding to the blanket along one side, starting a few inches from a corner. Line up the raw edge of the binding with the raw edge of the blanket, ensuring that the folded edge is facing inward. Use pins or clips to hold the binding in place.
2. Sew with a straight stitch: Using a sewing machine, stitch close to the folded edge of the binding, securing it to the blanket. A straight stitch or a decorative stitch can be used, depending on the desired look. Remove the pins or clips as you sew, being careful not to sew over them.
3. Sew around the corners: As you approach a corner, continue sewing until you are ¼ inch away from the corner. Stop with the needle down in the fabric. Lift the presser foot and pivot the blanket to prepare for sewing along the next side. Lower the presser foot and continue sewing, securing the binding in place along the next edge.
4. Continue sewing: Sew along the remaining sides of the blanket, following the same process of stopping and pivoting at each corner. Ensure that the binding is smooth and flat as you sew, adjusting it if necessary.
5. Sew the last section: When you reach the starting point, overlap the binding with the initial section, leaving a few inches of excess binding. Cut the excess binding, making sure it is long enough to overlap. Open up the binding ends and fold back the raw edges. Pin or clamp the ends together, aligning the folded edges. Sew across the overlapped ends to secure them in place.
6. Press the binding: After sewing the binding to the blanket, press it with an iron to set the stitches and ensure a crisp finish. Be cautious if your binding material is synthetic, as it may melt or distort under high heat. Pressing the binding will help it lay flat and give your blanket a professional appearance.
By carefully sewing the binding to your blanket, you’ll achieve a clean and polished look. Take your time, sew with precision, and ensure that the binding is securely attached. With practice, your sewing skills will improve, resulting in beautiful and professional-looking blankets.
Finishing the Binding
Finishing the binding is the final step in sewing a blanket with binding, and it adds the perfect touch to complete your project. Properly finishing the binding will ensure that it looks neat, secure, and stands the test of time. Here’s how to finish the binding:
1. Trim any excess binding: With fabric scissors, trim any excess binding, leaving a small overhang of about ¼ to ½ inch. Be careful not to cut into the blanket or the folded edge of the binding.
2. Fold and tuck the binding: Fold the excess binding towards the blanket, tucking it inside the folded edge of the binding. This creates a seamless and clean finish for the binding.
3. Pin or clip the binding: Use pins or clips to secure the folded edge of the binding in place, making sure it lays flat and is evenly distributed along the entire length of the blanket.
4. Hand or machine stitch: Choose between hand-stitching or using a sewing machine to secure the folded edge of the binding to the back of the blanket. If hand-stitching, use a blind stitch or slip stitch to invisibly secure the folded edge. If machine stitching, use a straight stitch close to the edge or use a decorative stitch for added flair.
5. Remove pins or clips: Once you have finished stitching the binding, remove the pins or clips from the back of the blanket.
6. Inspect and tidy up: Carefully inspect the finished binding to ensure that all edges are securely stitched and that there are no loose threads. Trim any excess threads and tidy up any areas that require it.
By properly finishing the binding, you’ll create a professional and clean look for your blanket. Take your time during this step and pay attention to detail. A well-finished binding will not only enhance the appearance of your blanket but also increase its durability and longevity.
Adding Embellishments to Your Blanket
Once you have sewn the binding to your blanket, you have the option to add embellishments for a personal touch and added visual interest. Embellishments can enhance the overall design and make your blanket truly unique. Here are some ideas for adding embellishments to your blanket:
1. Appliqué: Appliqué is the process of attaching fabric shapes or designs to the surface of your blanket. You can cut out shapes from contrasting or coordinating fabric and attach them using a sewing machine or hand stitching. This technique allows for endless creativity and customization.
2. Embroidery: Embroidery can add intricate designs, patterns, or personal messages to your blanket. You can use embroidery thread to stitch decorative elements by hand or with a sewing machine. Consider adding initials, flowers, animals, or any design that resonates with you or the blanket’s recipient.
3. Patches or motifs: Sewing patches or motifs onto your blanket is another way to embellish it. You can choose iron-on patches or sew them on individually. Patches can depict favorite characters, logos, or symbols that hold special meaning.
4. Buttons: Sewing buttons onto your blanket can add a playful and dimensional element. Choose buttons that complement the fabric and binding colors or use them as decorative accents. Ensure the buttons are securely attached, especially if the blanket will be used by children.
5. Ribbon or trim: Adding decorative ribbon or trim along the edges of your blanket can create a beautiful and finished look. Choose ribbons or trims that coordinate with the fabric or binding color. Attach them securely using a sewing machine or hand stitching.
6. Tassels or pom-poms: For a whimsical touch, you can attach tassels or pom-poms to the corners or edges of your blanket. You can create your own or purchase pre-made ones in various colors and sizes. Sew them securely to prevent them from coming loose during use or washing.
7. Quilting or topstitching: Consider quilting or topstitching along the surface of your blanket to add texture and visual interest. Quilting can involve stitching in a grid pattern, while topstitching can include decorative stitches or lines along the fabric. This not only embellishes the blanket but also adds durability and structure.
When adding embellishments to your blanket, ensure they are securely attached and won’t interfere with the functionality or comfort of the blanket. Let your creativity flow and choose embellishments that reflect your personal style or the recipient’s preferences. Adding these extra touches will make your blanket even more special and memorable.
Cleaning Up and Caring for Your Sewn Blanket
Once you have completed the sewing process and added any desired embellishments, it’s important to properly clean and care for your sewn blanket. By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your blanket remains in excellent condition for years to come:
1. Trim loose threads: Take a close look at your blanket and carefully trim any loose threads or excess fabric. This will give your blanket a neat and finished appearance.
2. Inspect the stitches: Thoroughly examine the stitches on the binding and embellishments to ensure they are secure. If you notice any loose or weak stitches, reinforce them by sewing over them again or by adding a few extra stitches. This will help prevent unraveling or damage over time.
3. Read the care instructions: Check the care instructions provided with your fabric and binding materials. Follow the recommended washing and drying procedures to ensure that your blanket retains its color, shape, and softness. Different fabrics may require different methods of cleaning.
4. Spot clean when needed: If your blanket becomes soiled or stained, it’s best to spot clean it promptly. Use a mild detergent or stain remover and a clean cloth or sponge to gently dab at the stain. Avoid rubbing, as this may cause the stain to spread. Let the area air dry completely before using or storing your blanket.
5. Machine wash with care: If your blanket is machine washable, follow the recommended washing instructions. Use a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. To protect the binding, consider placing the blanket in a wash bag or pillowcase before washing. Avoid using bleach or harsh detergents that can weaken the fabric and fade colors.
6. Air dry or tumble dry on low: After washing, carefully dry your blanket. If possible, air drying is the gentlest option. Lay the blanket flat on a clean surface or hang it up to prevent stretching or distortion. If using a dryer, choose a low heat setting and remove the blanket promptly once it is dry to avoid over-drying or shrinkage.
7. Store properly: When not in use, fold your blanket neatly and store it in a cool, dry place to protect it from dust, moisture, and pests. Consider using a breathable storage bag or container to prevent any potential damage.
By properly cleaning and caring for your sewn blanket, you’ll extend its lifespan and keep it looking its best. Regular maintenance and proper storage will ensure that you can enjoy your beautiful blanket for years to come.
