How to use a binder foot for binding edges complete guide

Introduction

Binding is a technique used in sewing to finish and strengthen the edges of a fabric piece. A binder foot is a specialized sewing machine foot that can be attached to a sewing machine to help bind the edges of a fabric piece. Using a binder foot can help to create a professional-looking and durable finish on a sewing project. In this guide, we will explore the steps for using a binder foot for binding edges.

Types of binder feet

There are three main types of binder feet that you can use for binding edges, including:

Single-Fold Binder Foot: This type of binder foot is designed to fold the fabric over once to create a binding. It is typically used for lightweight fabrics.
Double-Fold Binder Foot: This type of binder foot is designed to fold the fabric over twice to create a double-fold binding. It is typically used for heavier fabrics.
Adjustable Binder Foot: This type of binder foot can be adjusted to accommodate a range of fabric thicknesses and binding w

III. Preparing the binder foot

Before you can begin binding edges with a binder foot, you will need to properly prepare the foot and your sewing machine. Here are the steps to follow:

Choosing the Right Size Binder Foot: It is important to choose the right size binder foot for your project. Measure the thickness of the fabric you are binding, and select a binder foot that can accommodate that thickness.
Attaching the Binder Foot to the Sewing Machine: Once you have selected the appropriate binder foot, attach it to your sewing machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure the foot is securely attached before you begin sewing.
Selecting the Appropriate Needle and Thread: The needle and thread you use will depend on the type of fabric you are binding. Choose a needle and thread that are appropriate for the weight and type of fabric you are working with. A heavier fabric may require a thicker needle and thread, while a lighter fabric may require a thinner needle and thread.
Preparing the fabric
Cutting the fabric strips to the correct size:

Before you can start using a binder foot, you’ll need to cut your fabric strips to the correct size. The size of your strips will depend on the width of your binder foot and the finished size of the binding you want to create. Be sure to measure carefully and cut your strips as accurately as possible to ensure that your binding looks neat and professional.

Folding the fabric strip:

Once you’ve cut your fabric strips to the correct size, you’ll need to fold them in half lengthwise, with the wrong sides facing each other. You can do this by pressing the strip in half with an iron, or by folding it manually and pinning it in place. The folded strip should be the same width as the binder foot you’re using.

Positioning the fabric strip into the binder foot:

To use a binder foot, you’ll need to position your folded fabric strip into the foot itself. Depending on the type of binder foot you’re using, this may involve sliding the fabric into a slot or placing it over a curved surface. Make sure the fabric is positioned correctly before you begin sewing, to ensure that your binding turns out correctly.

Sewing with the binder foot
Adjusting the binder foot to the correct width:

Before starting to sew, you’ll need to adjust the binder foot to the correct width to fit your binding tape or fabric strip. Make sure the binder foot is securely attached to your sewing machine and use the screw or lever to adjust the width of the opening to match the thickness of your binding.

Sewing slowly and steadily:

When sewing with a binder foot, it’s important to sew slowly and steadily to ensure the binding tape or fabric strip is properly guided into the foot and sewn evenly. Avoid rushing or pulling the fabric, which can cause the binding to pucker or become misaligned.

Ensuring the fabric is feeding smoothly:

As you sew, make sure the fabric is feeding smoothly through the machine and that the binding tape or fabric strip is being guided evenly into the binder foot. If the fabric is not feeding smoothly, adjust the tension or pressure of your sewing machine.

Finishing the binding:

Once you’ve sewn the entire length of your binding, carefully remove the fabric from the machine and trim any excess binding. Fold the binding over to the wrong side of your project and press it flat with an iron. Depending on your project, you may need to hand stitch the binding in place to finish the edge.

Tips and tricks for using a binder foot

Testing on scrap fabric first: Before using a binder foot on your actual project, it’s always a good idea to test it out on some scrap fabric first. This way, you can adjust the foot’s settings and get a feel for how it works without risking ruining your project.
Using a pressing tool: When using a binder foot, it’s important to use a pressing tool, such as an iron, to help guide the fabric through the foot. This will ensure that your fabric stays in place and doesn’t shift or bunch up as you sew.
Adjusting the tension of the foot: Depending on the thickness of your fabric and the size of your binding tape, you may need to adjust the tension of your binder foot. Most binder feet have a screw or dial that allows you to adjust the tension, so be sure to experiment with different settings until you find the right one for your project.

VII. Conclusion

In conclusion, using a binder foot can be an excellent way to bind edges on your sewing projects. Some of the benefits include:

Time-saving: Using a binder foot can save time compared to other binding methods, such as hand-sewing or using a bias tape maker.

Precision: A binder foot can help ensure that your binding is applied evenly and consistently, which can result in a more professional-looking finished product.

Versatility: Binder feet come in different sizes, which means you can use them with a variety of binding tape widths and fabric thicknesses.

Efficiency: Binder feet can help you quickly and easily attach binding tape to your fabric, making it an efficient method for binding edges.

Final thoughts and recommendations:

If you’re looking to bind edges on your sewing projects, a binder foot can be a great tool to have in your arsenal. Just be sure to take your time, practice on scrap fabric first, and adjust the

foot’s tension as needed. With a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to achieve beautifully bound edges on all of your sewing projects.

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