Step-by-Step Tutorial: How To Create Bias Binding for Quilts

Bias binding is a game-changer for finishing quilts, especially when working with curved edges. I also love to cut ginghams, plaids, and stripes on the bias because they look so cute added as a binding that way. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to make bias binding from yardage fabric for your next quilting project. Let’s dive in!

1. Cut a Square of Fabric

Start by cutting a square of fabric measuring between 15 and 20 inches. For this tutorial, I’m working with a 15-inch square. This size is ideal for creating manageable amounts of binding for smaller quilting projects. For the quilt I'm working on I made bias binding from (2) 20 inch-squares and (1) 15 inch-square and combined them.

I find working with squares larger than 20 inches is kind of cumbersome.

2. Fold Fabric in Half

Fold the fabric in half. Smooth the edges and ensure an even fold.

3. Mark the Folds

At the folded edges, make small notches on both sides using your scissors. A tiny snip will do the trick - just enough to mark the fold.

4. Cut the Fabric in Half Diagonally

Using your rotary cutter and quilting ruler, cut the square in half diagonally. You'll now have two triangular pieces.

5. Align the Pieces

Place the two triangular pieces right sides together (RST) and line up the notches you made earlier. This step ensures you fabric will align perfectly after sewing.

My finger is pointing to where the notches should line up.

6. Pin and Sew the Seam

Pin and sew pieces together using a 1/4 inch seam allowance. This creates a larger, continuous piece of fabric to work with.

7. Press the Seam Open

Use your iron to press the seam open. The step helps reduce bulk and ensures your binding lies flat.

8. Draw the Cutting Lines

Starting at the leftmost diagonal edge, use a ruler to draw a line 2 1/2 inches from the edge. Continue drawing parallel lines 2 1/2 inches apart across the fabric until you reach the other side. 

9. Trim the Edge

Trim along the edge of your fabric to make the final strip an even 2 1/2 inches wide.

10. Fold and Match Short Ends

Fold the fabric so the short ends meet, aligning the drawn lines.

Then, offset the edges by one line to create a continuous loop when cutting.

11. Secure the Fabric

Use fabric clips or pins to secure the ends together. You will need to adjust the fabric slightly to ensure the lines will match perfectly after sewing because they will offset just a bit from the seam allowance.

12. Sew the Tube

Sew the short ends together with a 1/4 inch seam allowance to form a tube. This step creates the continuous nature of the binding.

13. Press the Seam Open

Press the seam open to reduce bulk.

14. Cut Along the Continuous Line

Using scissors, cut along the continuous line you've drawn. You'll now have a single, long strip of bias binding.

15. Create Additional Binding as Needed

If more binding is required, repeat the steps above to create additional strips.

16. Join Binding Strips

To join multiple strips, align the ends at a 90-degree angle, right sides together (RST), and sew diagonally across. Trim the excess fabric and press the seam open.

17. Fold and Press

Finally, fold the bias binding in half lengthwise with the wrong sides together (WST). Press the folded strip with an iron to create a crisp edge.

And voila - you now have beautiful, flexible bias binding ready to use in your quilting projects.

• Starch Fabric
• Use Sharp Scissors
• Press Often 
• Start Small: Practice with a smaller square to get comfortable with the process.

This is my Love Notes Quilt Pattern made with the Blush 'n Butterscotch fabric collection designed by Simple Simon and Co. for Riley Blake Designs.

Making your own bias binding gives you creative control over the fabric's color, pattern, and size. Plus, it's a budget-friendly option that adds a personal touch to your quilting projects.

My Favorite Threads

• Aurifil 12 wt Thread - quilting, embroidery, big stitch binding

• Aurifil 12 wt Wool Thread - embroidery
• Aurifil 8 wt Thread - embroidery, big stitch binding
• Aurifil 50 wt Thread - piecing, bobbin
• Aurifil 80 wt Thread - hand sewing

Here's a Link to my Amazon Store Front if you're curious about the specific supplies I use!