how to bind tiny things

A few weeks ago I bound a set of 5 coasters. Joining the ends of the binding strips is pretty tricky on pieces that small, but I figured out a way to make it easier! I recently bound this mini tree block, which measures 5.5" x 8". That's pretty little! I took a few photos along the way so I could share a quick tutorial on how to bind tiny things with you. Use this method for coasters, pot holders, mini mats, mug rugs, or teeny tiny quilts...anything small.

Start with a quilted piece.

Trim the edges down to between 1/16" and 1/8" beyond the quilt top.

Cut a strip for binding 1 1/2" wide and a few inches longer than the perimeter of your quilted piece.

Lay out the binding on the quilted piece as sort of a "dry run", if you will. Make sure to miter the corners as you go, laying out the strip as accurately as possible.

Measure an overlap of 1/4". Trim the excess. Normally, when binding and joining the ends with a straight seam, you would measure a 1/2" overlap. But, in my experience using this method, I've found that during the process of stitching the binding down, things stretch just a little bit. The 1/4" overlap was spot on for me, but your sewing machine/walking foot may vary from mine, so your results may vary a bit as well. Use the 1/4" overlap is a starting point. Adjust if necessary. (I'd be curious to hear how it works for you. If you try it, leave me a comment please!) Ok, now that that disclaimer is out of the way, let's proceed!

Take the two ends of the binding strip and sew them together with a 1/4" seam allowance. Make sure that the strip isn't twisted.

Now, you should have a continuous loop of binding. Press the seam open.

Place the seam on the side of the quilted piece (so it doesn't end up in a corner) and start stitching it down. The beautiful part is that you don't need to leave any tails for joining later. That part is already done!

Attach the binding to the quilted piece as you would normally, mitering the corners as usual.

At this point, all but the final corner (top right) has been stitched down.

Take the piece to the iron and press the binding strip flat. Pin in place. See? No pucker in the binding whatsoever. Stitch the remaining part down, overlapping a few stitches where the seams meet.

And here it is, all attached! Isn't that slick?

Press the binding away from the front of the quilt. (it's not easy on a tiny piece!)

 The binding will stand almost straight up.

 Fold the raw edge in, then fold the binding over itself, completely enclosing the raw edges inside.

Hold in place using some handy dandy Clover wonder clips. (I LOVE them!)

Hand stitch the binding down on the back. This part is great, because it goes so quick!

Here it is, all finished!

 

If you have any questions, I'll try to answer them in the comments.

 

Go forth and bind ALL the tiny things!