NEW (UPDATED 29.1.15) TUTORIAL ::
In preparation for the release of our latest Tessuti Pattern - Valerie Top. I thought I'd post a step-by-step tutorial on how to sew and join together bias binding.
In our latest patterns we've recommended using a double fold bias binding (cut in self fabric). This is similar to double-fold french binding that is used to bind quilts, but for garments the binding is much narrower. Obviously this sort of bias binding sewn on the double, only works in finer fabrics like lightweight cottons, linens, silks etc. I love this method of binding, it's easier and gives a nicer finish. It can be used for narrower inside edge binding (as shown here) or for wider bindings to edge both the inner and outer garment.
Note: The binding strip used for this top is 1 and one quarter inch wide to finish 3/8" wide.
IMPORTANT: Cut your bias binding strip ends at 45 degree angles and ensure that both ends are cut in the SAME direction. Note: bindings are cut longer so you will need to check measure bindings around armholes before cutting off any excess.
Press binding in half lengthways (wrong sides together), taking care to stretch slightly when pressing and making sure raw edges are flush. Note: when the binding is pressed in half the angled end will be shorter on one side (see image above).
Pin raw edges of folded binding to armhole edge, starting approx 2" away from side seam towards the front garment. This will help to avoid adding bulk to the underarm seam. Place a pin 1/2" in from from angled cut edge (see images above).
Continue pinning other side of binding end to overlap pin point (1) and place a pin (2) to correspond the position. Open up folded binding at point 2 and chalk mark position on straight grain of binding and at the same angle of bias end. Cut on chalk mark 2 only.
Unpin angled bias ends only and unfold the binding so you join bias ends together. Take care not to twist binding ends.
Place right sides of angled ends of bias binding together,
Pin in place. Checking to overlap correctly so that when open to right side, bias is one continuous binding with centre fold and raw edges aligned.
Sew binding ends together, taking 1/4" seam allowance.
Press seam open.
Trim off seam protruding from right side of binding raw edges.
Repress joined binding in half and repin back to armhole.
Sew binding in place, taking 1/4" seam allowance.
Turn binding out away from garment and understitch on binding near armhole seam, making sure to catch the seam allowance at the back.
Pin binding evenly around armholes on wrong side of garment
and edge stitch bottom edge of binding.
This will create the topstitch detail around the armhole on the right side of garment.
Hope you found this tutorial helpful. Happy binding friends!
Labels: Dresses, Tessuti Patterns, Tops, Tutorials
