Have you tried single-fold binding on your small quilts? How about on your big quilts?
Hope’s Journey author Betsy Chutchian (also one of the Moda All-Stars!) has been quilting since 1980—she taught herself to quilt with a quilt top made by her paternal great-grandmother and great-aunt. She’s been teaching quiltmaking since 1990, and guess what? She uses single-fold binding on all of her quilts, no matter their size.
Over the years, Betsy’s fine-tuned her binding technique, especially for stitching those sometimes-pesky mitered corners. Check out her take on how to do single-fold binding in the video below—you might find a few surprises. We sure did!
Reading this post in email? Click here to view the video online.
Here’s a closer look at Betsy’s quilts from the video:
Spring Meadow
Saw Blade
Chick, Chick, Chick, Hen
Hope’s Journey includes 28 traditional block patterns, 11 beautiful small quilt patterns, and four large sampler-style settings for the blocks you make. The samplers are spectacular!
Two of the four samplers from Hope’s Journey
Feeling inspired to take a trip with Betsy through Hope’s Journey? Now’s the perfect time to begin—fellow author Susan Ache (Start with Strips) is hosting a quilt-along for the book right now! You can follow Susan on Instagram (@yardgrl60) to join the fun—use the hashtag #hopesjourneyqal and start posting your blocks. That’s all there is to it!
And because March is our blog-iversary—SEVEN years!—we’re celebrating with exclusive discounts on books throughout the month (and yes, our Semi-Annual Warehouse Sale is coming soon too). This week only, order Hope’s Journey at our website to save 25% and get a complimentary eBook version sent directly to your inbox. That means you can start sewing today if you like! Sale ends March 11.
Single-fold binding or double-fold binding: what’s your go to?
- I use single-fold binding for all of my quilts.
- I’ve only used double-fold binding, but single-fold may be worth a try!
- It depends on the quilt; I use both.
Tell us in the comments!
I use single fold on wall hangings and mug rugs and double fold on my larger quilts
—Karen on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double fold, but I might try single fold, especially for quilts that won’t be used on a bed, where extra strength is needed. It would save on fabric too! I’m always reluctant to use up too much of my stash!
—Pam Doerge on March 4, 2019I’ve only ever done double fold but I think I’ll give the single fold a try.
—Rita Nichols on March 4, 2019I use double fold because almost all of my projects are large and will be well used. The double fold gives me peace of mind that the binding will be durable enough to hold up to wear and tear. After watching this video I think I’ll try single fold on some of my table runners and wallhangings. Thank you for the insight!
—Bettye King on March 4, 2019For small quilts I sometimes use a single fold binding. However I use a double gold binding for larger quilts especially those that will see a lot of use.
—Rilla Burnham on March 4, 2019I’ve always used a double fold binding, though I rarely use a bias binding any more. I’ve always thought it was necessary for strength. I guess it might be fine to use a single fold binding on my wall hangings in the future, though.
—Linda Hahn on March 4, 2019I’m happy to see this technique and will give it a try!
—Karen Higgins on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double-fold binding, but single-fold may be worth a try!
—Kaye Walker on March 4, 2019Have always used double fold but may try the single fold on my smaller projects.
—Mona Baldwin on March 4, 2019I use the single fold binding on all of my quilts and turn all of the binding to be on the back. I do corners differently to accomplish this. I am inspired to learn your corner technique for any art quilts that I want a top border around.
—Dianna Callahan on March 4, 2019I use single fold binding on table runners, doll quilts and other small projects.
—Judy Smith on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double-fold binding, but single-fold may be worth a try
—carol on March 4, 2019Once I discovered single fold, that’s all I use! She has some new ideas from what I’ve done. Love to learn new things!
—Kris Warren on March 4, 2019When I learned to quilt in 1993 I was taught the double fold binding method. Last year I learned how to make a single fold binding and I really like this method. I have used the single fold binding technique on both large and smaller quilts. There is less bulk and the binding is easier to turn and stitch down. I also press, first to set the binding seam and then press the binding away from the quilt center before turning. It’s an extra step, but I like the end result.
—Fran Bianchi on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double fold binding, but I can see the advantage to doing the single fold on smaller projects. Not on a bed quilt. I’m going to give it a try.
—Stephanie Woodward on March 4, 2019I’ve used a double fold binding for my quilts for wearability’s sake, but I have a customer’s quilt that I’m going to try the single fold binding because the material is made from Carhardt clothing. It will make the fabric go further and the fabrid is such a tighter, thicker weave.
—Robbin Golden on March 4, 2019I use single fold for small items; double fold for large, bed-sized quilts.
—Kathy on March 4, 2019I’ve always used double-fold binding but maybe I will try a single-fold binding on a table runner or other small project.
—Dottie MACOMBER on March 4, 2019LOVE Betsy’s books! And the quilts in those books. Now, it will be nice to learn her binding technique.
—Barbara Wiggins on March 4, 2019I have only used double fold but may give this a try.
—Elaine Davis on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double fold binding, but for small quilts I think I’m going to try her single fold technique.
—Dorothy Carter on March 4, 2019I only use single fold binding for my miniatures or art quilts. Anything larger gets double fold binding to provide a more durable edge on quilts that will be used & washed often.
—Sandy Bradfield on March 4, 2019I use double fold
—Nancy on March 4, 2019Love the look of this book. I use double fold binding on bed quilts and single on wallhangings etc.
—Peggy on March 4, 2019Have never tried a single fold binding, will try on a small project to see if I like it. Looks great in the video.
—Tamara Isaacs-Smith on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double-fold binding, but I would love to try the single-fold.
—Jane on March 4, 2019I’ve used both. For quilts that will get a lot of use, I use double fold. I use single fold for wall quilts, mug rugs, etc.
—Judy Chastain on March 4, 2019I’m a big fan of single fold binding.
—Robin on March 4, 2019I have only used double fold binding but after the video will give single fold a try. Thank you.
—Bonita Harms on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double fold binding.
—Sandi Kelly on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double-fold binding, but single-fold may be worth a try!
—Terri Rawlins on March 4, 2019I only use double fold….too many quilts my grandma made are having
—nancy simpson-bunt on March 4, 2019frayed edges and so I’m trying to prevent that
I’ve never used single fold binding because I’d never heard of it. I will for sure be trying it on my next small quilt! Jadahlgr at yahoo dot com
—Cindy Dahlgren on March 4, 2019I haven’t tried single fold binding, but it may be good to try.
—Kay D on March 4, 2019I only use double fold. I think using single fold for a smaller piece that will either be a wall hanging or table topper would be worth a try!!! Thanks for the video!
—Patty F. on March 4, 2019I use single fold
—Sue Goodin on March 4, 2019I was taught to use single fold for binding. I haven’t experienced any difficulties with it but I do finish the back by hand.
—Barbara on March 4, 2019Only double fold binding so far…anxious to try single fold now!
—Joanne Larson on March 4, 2019I have only used the double folded but might try the single fold.
—Karen W on March 4, 2019I always double fold my binding but the single fold might be worth a try.
—Martha Cook on March 4, 2019I use double fold, but will give single fold a try
—Hilda Krebs on March 4, 2019I’ve used both single- and double-fold binding, depending on the project. I’m always open to new approaches.
—Marsa on March 4, 2019I have only used double fold binding but this looks fairly easy and ends up very neat and tidy so I will try it next time I make a small quilt.
—Margaret Hynes on March 4, 2019I use double fold on potholders, quilts to be slept under and anything that a child would use. I’ve even considered triple fold to help with a quilt’s longevity. I use single fold on items that are only for looks.
—Cindy on March 4, 2019I only use single fold on my mini quilts and double fold on all others.
—Karen Keeler on March 4, 2019I use 1/4 inch bindings on wall hangings and small quilts. I think it looks neater.
—mary on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double fold binding. I would like to give single fold a try on minis though.
—Susan L. on March 4, 2019I’ve always used double fold, but I think I might try the single fold.
—Geri on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double-fold binding, but single-fold may be worth a try!
—Patsy Philson on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double-fold binding, but single-fold may be worth a try, especially on small projects.
—Heidi on March 4, 2019I have only used double-fold binding and will probably stick with that.
—Janelle L. Bucher on March 4, 2019I only use double fold bindings because that was what I was taught. Rational thinking allows me to agree that single fold is fine for small projects or those that get little wear and tear and limited repeat washings. Wow – I’m a prime example that you really can teach an old dog new tricks.
—SandyMay on March 4, 2019Double fold for quilts in this house as they really get used! I’d like to try single fold for wall quilts.
—B Campbell on March 4, 2019I always use double fold. Always.
—Sara on March 4, 2019I have only ever used double fold binding because that is what i was taught! I am about to watch the single fold video while i drink my coffee it looks like a good idea for wall quilts.
Enjoy, Suzanne! ☕ –Jenny
—suzanne keal on March 4, 2019I do a single fold on all small quilts and a double on large quilts.
—Sharon Lowy on March 4, 2019I always do single fold binding on small quilts but double fold on large quilts. I was under the impression that a double fold would wear better in a used quilt as opposed to a decorative quilt. It sure is easy to get nice meters with the single fold bindings.
—Susan G on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double-fold binding, but single-fold may be worth a try!
—Martha Morgan on March 4, 2019I have used both depends on the quilt and my mood… happyness04431@yahoo.com
—Anna lutz brown on March 4, 2019I usually use double fold binding but I sometimes use single fold if the piece is small and won’t get washed a lot.
—Barb Walsh on March 4, 2019I’ve never tried single fold, but am interested in trying it.
—Jane Larke on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double fold binding on my projects but after watching the video would like to try the single fold on my next wall hanging or table runner.
—LaVonne K on March 4, 2019I have used double only for my bindings, This was an eye-popping news to me. Yes, the binding would look much better and less bulky on small projects, I will certainly try this on my next project. Thank you.
—Althea Klosterman on March 4, 2019I have never tried single fold binding but, after watching the video I can’t double fold my bindings anymore. It looks as easy can be and I’m ready to use it on a table runner.
—Holly Small on March 4, 2019I always use a double fold binding. Just habit.
—Christi on March 4, 2019I’ve only used double fold. Now I may start single fold. Enjoyed Betsy’s set by step video. 🙂
—Elizabeth Dickerson on March 5, 2019I have only used double but single looks very good. Will have to try it. Nice video.
—Barbara Hosford on March 5, 2019I’ve only used double-fold binding, but single-fold may be worth a try!
—Györgyi Varga on March 5, 2019I have always used double fold. Will try single sold on some smaller projects
—Kathy Brickey on March 5, 2019I have always used double fold binding. I must admit I will now be trying using single fold bindings on wall hangings and smaller projects. A great way to save on fabric usage as well!
—Ann West on March 5, 2019I’ve only used double gold but now plan to finish all my small quilts with single fold binding.
—Julia S on March 5, 2019I use single fold on little quilts that won’t get much wear and tear, double fold on large lap and bed size quilts and I face all my art quilts.
—Barbara Daniel on March 5, 2019I’ve only used double fold, but I’m going to give single fold a try!
—Robin M on March 5, 2019I use double-fold binding, but I’m always open to learning new techniques! Bring on the single-fold binding lesson!
—Teri D. Gailey on March 5, 2019Love the nice video. It is a great way to learn new things. I will try the single fold binding for small things. Thanks and keep them coming.
—Susan Geiser on March 6, 2019I’ve only used double-fold binding, but I will try single-fold binding on the 2 small quilts I need to get quilted. Thanks!
—Darliss Peabody on March 6, 2019Have used types of binding, depending on what size and type of quilt I’m making. Don’t really have a preference. I do believe the single fold looks much daintier for smaller projects:)
—Lily M. on March 6, 2019I use double fold binding. I don’t do many small quilts. I do like the way it looks for the smaller quilts. I think I will give it a try.
—Lerlene Nevaril on March 6, 2019I have used double fold binding mostly, but might give single fold a go more often
—A. Bouwman on March 6, 2019I use only double folded binding. I feel that it holds up better than single fold binding. It may work for display quilts, but I’m not sure about those that get a lot of wear & tear.
—Sherie Christiansen on March 7, 2019I’ve only used double-fold binding, but single-fold may be worth a try!
—Judith Carlon on March 7, 2019I’ve used both – depending on what I’m making.
—Judith Carlon on March 7, 2019Honestly binding is still my work in progress. I use double side binding and read and watch everything I can get my hands on about binding!
—Shelley on March 8, 2019I’ve tried both – each only once!
—bookboxer on March 8, 2019I’m certainly going to try this – it makes the corners look so easy to do!
—Rob on March 8, 2019This is really interesting, and I realize that the video was shot at a show, with lots of background noise. It would be SO much easier to follow Betsy if we had closed captioning or subtitles laid over the video. Given the noise and her accent, I need multiple viewings to get all her advice.
We’re planning our next round of videos and we’re changing how we film them for better sound, Linda – we’re always trying to find better ways to do what we do! Thanks for your comment! –Jenny
—Linda Carlson on March 8, 2019I cut my single binding 1 1/2 inch and use it on placemats, table toppers and table runners. pot holders and all small mini quilts.
—Lucille Lozier on March 8, 2019I have only used double gold binding, except on a set of placemats where I brought the backing to the front. The binding is now shredding in places. I will have to be careful about trying single bindings.
—Linda Towers on March 8, 2019I really enjoyed this video demonstration and I will use single fold binding on my next project for sure. I’ve never tried it before.
—Gail K on March 8, 2019I’ve only used double-fold binding, but single-fold may be worth a try! I haven’t made any mini quilts but I have Hope’s Journey book, so I’ll be setting off on an adventure of single fold binding.
—debby on March 8, 2019I’ve used both depending upon the project. Single for small items, double for quilts that will get used frequently and washed.
—Susan Brewer on March 8, 2019I have never used single fold binding, but after seeing the video, it’s worth a try.
—Sherry Loncar on March 8, 2019I have always used double fold binding, but will try the single fold on mug rugs.
—Maureen R on March 8, 2019Never tried the single fold but I think I may on the quilt I am working on now.
—Debby Jensen on March 8, 2019I’ve only used double fold but will consider it for smaller projects for sure. Thanks!
—LisaT on March 8, 2019I’ve always used double fold, but this looks easy and could also be a fabric saver. I’m anxious to try it.
—Lorrie Potts on March 8, 2019It’s depence, I user both methods
—Rommy Van Houten on March 8, 2019I’ve only used double fold. Have to try single fold.
—Ola Norman on March 8, 2019I’ve only used double-fold binding, but single-fold may be worth a try.
—karen on March 9, 2019Thank’s for the video demo!
I’ve only used double fold. This is really worth a try!
—Susan Lewis on March 9, 2019I use double fold for all the larger quilts, but single fold for small things. I have a tape maker for my machine which makes small things finish fast.
—Karen B. on March 10, 2019I use single-fold binding.
—Denise V on March 11, 2019Any and all seasons.
—JoAnn Farrow on March 13, 2019