To use binding or not to use binding

I am working on the Spicy Spiral Table Mat and noticed some used binding to finish off the outside, others just sewed front and back and flipped. With all your good experiences which usage will make the mat look more professional and lay flatter. WHY

I personally like the look of the binding. I think it comes down to
which look you like better.

Louise in Iowa
http://community.webshots.com/user/LouiseinIowa
nieland1390@mchsidotcom

On 4/25/2011 1:11 PM, Gerry Neuroth wrote:
I am working on the Spicy Spiral Table Mat and noticed some used binding
to finish off the outside, others just sewed front and back and flipped.
With all your good experiences which usage will make the mat look more
professional and lay flatter. WHY

I like the effect of binding and the chance to add a contrasting
narrow "frame" around the piece. It also allows you to quilt more
freely: any shifting of the backing won't be an issue, and you can
start and stop at an edge (no need to finish off).

As for laying flat, it's really the middle of the piece you need to
worry about. Concentrate on your pressing directions to avoid lumpy
bits at seam intersections. Use a good batting (I like Hobbs Heirloom
NAYY) so the seams have someplace to sink into. And make sure your
quilting is even and regular to maintain a nice flat overall texture.
Roberta in D

On Mon, 25 Apr 2011 19:11:09 +0100, Gerry Neuroth
wrote:


I am working on the Spicy Spiral Table Mat and noticed some used binding
to finish off the outside, others just sewed front and back and flipped.
With all your good experiences which usage will make the mat look more
professional and lay flatter. WHY

On Apr 25, 11:11*am, Gerry Neuroth Gerry.Neuroth.
wrote:
I am working on the Spicy Spiral Table Mat and noticed some used binding
to finish off the outside, others just sewed front and back and flipped.
With all your good experiences which usage will make the mat look more
professional and lay flatter. WHY

--
Gerry Neuroth

I've made a few of these runners, and have taught the class more than
a couple of times...G
Generally I am a fan of binding, but for this particular project the
binding can detract from the design of the Spiral part.
Also, if you bind you must use bias because the entire outside edge is
curved. So, I go with the pattern and layer, stitch, trim and turn the
runner before quilting it. It really does help keep the curve
flowing.
OH, and a tip: when you are going to leave an opening to turn
something. If you do a basting type stitch, by machine, on the
seamline of the area to be left open first. That is stitch through
single layers (or one layer and batting) . It really helps a lot. The
stitching helps keep the opening from stretching, and it gives you a
line to turn on. If you need to you can remove the basting, but often
it just disappears into the seam.

Pati, in Phx

Pati,
Thanks for the tip about stitching on the seam line before turning. I
always have problems getting that done neatly.

Donna in Idaho



OH, and a tip: when you are going to leave an opening to turn
something. If you do a basting type stitch, by machine, on the
seamline of the area to be left open first. That is stitch through
single layers (or one layer and batting) . It really helps a lot. The
stitching helps keep the opening from stretching, and it gives you a
line to turn on. If you need to you can remove the basting, but often
it just disappears into the seam.

Pati, in Phx

OH, and a tip: when you are going to leave an opening to turn
something. If you do a basting type stitch, by machine, on the
seamline of the area to be left open first. That is stitch through
single layers (or one layer and batting) . It really helps a lot. The
stitching helps keep the opening from stretching, and it gives you a
line to turn on. If you need to you can remove the basting, but often
it just disappears into the seam.

Pati, in Phx


I always do this on quillows. It really does help to make a neater closure.

Iris