How to make nice flange binding with the Janome Continental M17

How to Make Flange Binding Janome M17

Flange binding is a decorative edge finish that can be used to accentuate and edge quilts, blankets, and other sewing projects. This binding style adds a little "pop" of color or contrast and can be a fun and unique way to finish your projects. Let's dive into how to make flange binding.

Materials Needed:

1. Main binding fabric (this is what you will see most of)

2. Flange fabric (this will be the small accent stripe)

3. Scissors or rotary cutter

4. Ruler

5. Sewing machine

6. Matching or contrasting thread

Instructions:

1. Measure and Cut:Determine the length of binding you need for your project and add at least 10-12 inches extra for corners and joining the ends.
   For the main binding fabric, cut strips that are 1 ¾ inches wide.
   For the flange fabric, cut strips that are 1 ½ inches wide.
   

2. Sewing the Strips:Place a strip of the main binding fabric and a strip of the flange fabric with right sides together and raw edges aligned.
   Sew them together with a scant ¼ inch seam allowance.
   Continue joining strips in this manner until you have a long strip that is sufficient for your project's perimeter.
   

3. Pressing:Press the seams towards the main binding fabric. This will cause the flange fabric to show on the right side as a small accent stripe.
   

4. Folding and Pressing Again:Fold the sewn strip in half lengthwise, with wrong sides together, and press.
   

5. Attaching to Your Project:With your quilt or project right side up, align the raw edges of the flange binding to the raw edge of your project.
   Sew the binding to your project using a scant ¼ inch seam allowance. This will ensure that the flange shows evenly when you fold the binding over to the back.
   When you approach a corner, fold the binding in a mitered manner to achieve a neat corner turn.
   Join the binding ends using your preferred method.
   

6. Finishing:Once attached to the front, fold the binding over to the back of your project. The main binding fabric will be what you see on the back, and the flange will appear as a small accent stripe on the front.
   Hand-stitch or machine stitch the binding in place on the back, ensuring that your stitches don’t catch the flange on the front.
   

Tips:

• Play with color contrasts to make the flange pop or blend in.

• Always test a small section first to ensure the desired effect.

• Remember to use a thread that complements or matches your binding, especially if machine stitching.

Flange binding can add a special touch to your projects, giving them a unique finish with just a hint of extra flair. It's a relatively simple process but results in a striking and professional appearance. Give it a try on your next quilting or sewing project!