Here is how to sew seam binding:
Sewing seam binding is a technique used to finish raw fabric edges cleanly, preventing fraying and adding a professional look to your garment or project.
The process involves encasing the raw edge of your fabric within the folded seam binding and stitching it down. Here's a breakdown of the steps:
- Prepare Your Fabric Edge: Ensure the raw edge you want to bind is clean and even. Trim away any loose threads or uneven areas.
- Position the Seam Binding: Take your seam binding, which typically has a pre-pressed fold. Open the binding slightly and insert the raw fabric edge directly into the fold. As suggested in the reference, "You want to put the seam directly on the right side of the fold" – this indicates aligning the fabric edge within the binding's crease.
- Fold and Encase the Edge: With the fabric edge nestled inside the binding's fold, fold the binding over the edge like normal, ensuring the raw edge is completely hidden within the binding.
- Secure the Binding: Pin or clip the folded binding in place along the entire length of the fabric edge to keep it from shifting while sewing.
- Sew the Binding in Place: Stitch along the edge of the binding through all layers. The reference advises to "sew it down on the shallow. Side just like we did before." This means sewing close to the inner edge of the binding on the side that faces the main fabric body, catching both the binding and the fabric underneath. Sew smoothly and evenly down the length of the bound edge.
Tips for a Clean Finish
- Choose a binding color that matches or complements your fabric.
- Use a slightly longer stitch length (e.g., 2.5-3.0 mm) for less puckering.
- Match your thread color to your binding for a neat look.
- Practice on a scrap piece of fabric first if you're new to sewing binding.
By following these steps, you can effectively use seam binding to create durable and tidy edges on your sewing projects.
