This may very likely be a "duh" for most of you, but I find most patterns specify a different means to finish the ends of ties and bias bindings, so I thought I'd share the way I do it.
Usually pattern instructions tell you to turn the raw (short) edges of bias trim to the wrong side, then sandwich the whole thing closed, and sew the fat little end down. For me this usually results in something lumpy and uneven, and I risk some messy stitching as the presser foot goes from that big lump to the flatter, main portion of the binding.
This photo summarizes how I do my binding ends. Yes, I need a manicure.
From left to right, starting in the upper left corner:
- View of the inside, unfinished end of a bias tie
- Fold the tie in half, right sides together so that one side has two folds and the other side has the two raw edges and center fold in the middle (it should look like a "W")
- Place the "W" under your presser foot, with the side with the two folds closest to you
- Sew a 1/4" seam along the edge. Do not backstitch at the beginning - sew all the way across the tie, then in reverse all the way back. This will keep all your threads on one (the inside) end
- Trim threads and clip to both corners. Get close without cutting stitch line
- Turn right sides out
- Press corner out with scissors or something less likely to poke a hole
- Press with iron
- Sew tie shut as normal
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Genius! I never could figure out how to make them look nice.
Jodi said...
12:52 PM
NICE job on the binding ends! I've been sewing for 40+ years and had never seen this idea. I will certainly put this to use.
Cathie said...
1:40 PM
Cathie - isn't it funny how that works? Every time I sew with my mom, or see something she's sewn, I have this "why did I not think of that?" reaction. It's never something rocket-sciencey. Just little tidbits that make sewing life a bit better.
By the way, I saw you are from "smalltown Illinois." I grew up in Bloomington - are you anywhere near there?
Kristen said...
1:54 PM