Cover Image: Ultimate Binding and Edge-Finishing Guide for Quilting and Sewing

Ultimate Binding and Edge-Finishing Guide for Quilting and Sewing

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Member Reviews

I learned to sew with the sewing mashine when I was young, but I never learned how to make clothes or quilt. I do not know what tips and tricks are important to keep in mind while sewing as I am self-taught. Recently, I got into sewing again and started sewing more. But I have not quilted anything till date, but sewed some clothes. There I realized I lacked a lot of knowledge. This book is so thorough but at the same time concise so it does not contain too much written text or unnessecary information. It taught me a lot, on how to find the grid, which angle to cut the fabric and even tips on how to sew a straight stitch. This book is definitely good for people who are self-taught or just started getting into sewing. I really loved that there are QR-codes throughout the book that you can scan, and will be directed to short youtube videos to visually show you how it is done. If reading and all the pictures still leave you confused, this is a great way to understand. I never saw it in books before, but I really appreciate the codes, because I do learn sometimes better from watching someone else do it than read, and this feels very inclusive. All in all, I can totally recommend this book as it shows you how to get started with binding but also different types of binding. It is really easy to understand and for every difficulty level.

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I received an ARC of “Ultimate Binding and Edge-Finishing Guide for Quilting and Sewing: More than 16 Different Techniques from Basic to Scalloped, Scrappy to Chenille” by Deonn Stott from NetGalley and Fox Chapel Publishing/Landauer Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

I won’t lie—I’m a country quilter. My quilts are meant to be used, not to be paraded around as works of art (because they’re not). In fact, they are the very definition of utility. Like many people, I machine sew my binding onto the front using mitered corners, then use hand stitching to attach it to the back. I **never** use bias binding. In fact, the only binding that I do use is regular straight binding.

Besides the usual introductory material and index, Stott’s book is divided into 4 main sections: Binding Basics, Alternate Endings: Simple Solutions, Alternate Endings: Fancy Finished, and Deluxe Edge Treatments. But I have to admit that when I discovered that the author is a fan of Superior Threads (my go-to thread for all quilting), it definitely changed how I felt about this book after just reading a few pages. I know it might sound ridiculous to some, but when I actually started quilting—not piecing—I went through hell with my thread continuously breaking. But when I discovered Superior Threads, it was a life changer and my quilting has been smooth running since that time.

Includes a calculation chart with 2 different options that helps quilters formulate how much yardage they’ll need to finish binding their quilts. As a utilitarian quilter, I will almost exclusively use Option 2, where Stott provides yardage requirements for binding all common quilt sizes, from crib to king size.

Stott’s binding techniques can be used for both utility quilts AND show quilts. The author includes measurements and directions for creating a hanging sleeve—a quilt show requirement. The binding examples include bias, self-binding, envelope finish, embellished envelope (including rickrack, prairie points, and scallops), invisible faced, embellished faced, pieced (scrappy, faux-piped, piece-as-you-go, chenille, and binding with special fabrics that require additional know-how, such as denim and plush fur. Stott also shows readers how to properly bind curved edges.

The author really utilized the power of interacting with readers and included multiple QR codes for readers, namely:

1. I really like how Stott included a QR code to teach people how to train their ears to determine the grain of the fabric (warp, weft, and bias). As I watched the video, I was amazed at how each really does make different sounds. I’ll no doubt have to play that video multiple times to train myself!
2. The second QR code shows people how to use tape to sew strips together on a sewing machine. Most seasoned quilters use this technique using painter’s tape and you can even purchase lined tape. But the inclusion of this will really help beginning quilters who might not know about this.
3. I’ve always rolled up my binding in a circle, or snail shell shape. And when I sew on the binding, it **always** twists. Stott’s third QR code shows readers how to wind the binding so that you can sew it on twist free. This is a pure genius hack!
4. A QR code is given that actually shows the author applying binding to a finished quilt. Now, there are few different ways to add binding; the method I use is a bit different, much easier, and far less beautiful that the method that Stott uses. But keep in mind, if you’re going to show your quilt at a quilt show or even a county fair, you should **absolutely** follow Stott’s method.
5. Stott’s No-Clip Corner Technique that is a perfect finish for a coverlet (no batting in between layers) or small items with batting (e.g., table runners).
6. A QR link takes readers to a website providing additional reading and numerous pictures to help readers complete a table runner project.
7. A final QR code that shows quilters a stitch removable technique called “zip ripping” using a new product that I’ve never heard of before. If it works for Stott, then I’m hoping it will do the same for me!

The author has numerous tips in green bubbles featured throughout the book. All I can say is that these tips are **beyond** awesome! Many people who have read my reviews in the past are aware that I am a self-taught quilter. Because of that, there are still a lot of things that I’m not aware of. Even so, I was floored when I learned that,

“…Most quarter-inch presser feet have notches or marks exactly 1/4” (6.4mm) from the needle…Skip the pin and use the lines on the presser foot…”

What!?!? When I read that tip, I immediately raced to my machine, took off my 1/4” foot, found the notch, and even used a tape measure just to make sure that it was indeed a 1/4” marking. I have spent YEARS screwing up my mitered binding (AND using pins!) and all this time, there was a marking already there!!!

Stott is obviously an experienced quilter who knows what she’s talking about. I’ve read a LOT of quilting books, and this by far is one of the best—if not THE best—quilting books around. A quilt without binding is an unusable, unfinished quilt. Whether you’re a professional quilter or a utility quilter who “wings it” by watching YouTube videos, you really, really, really need to have a copy of this book in your personal library. Stott is nothing short of pure genius.

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This instructional guide to binding quilts is clear and easy to follow, with lots of photographs and written instructions. The author explains how to do different types of bindings, and also explains what kinds of quilts these different approaches are best for. There's a lot of great information here, and many people will find it helpful to have so many techniques and options compiled in one book. Some pages also include QR codes for instructional videos. This is a helpful reference guide that I would recommend to people who are interested in quilting.

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I received a copy of this from NetGalley.

This was a good guide to different quilt binding options. It starts with the traditional way, and then shows how to add embellishments and techniques for binding around curves and angles. Pictures were included with the directions to make them pretty clear. These aren't new methods, but it's nice to have them compiled and have clear instructions and examples.

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Ms.Scott provides an easy to understand, detailed instruction guide for quilt bindings that was just what I needed. This book is a great reference for a quilter’s library.

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More Than 16 Techniques to Finish Your Projects Perfectly Everytime
The author provides detailed tutorials for finishing quilts and other sewing projects. The book is illustrated with beautiful color photographs. There are also links to video tutorials that complement the text.

My Thoughts
I chose this book because I had an old quilt with a loose binding. The stitching had come out and it needed to be repaired. I am not a quilter but I have had some experience with sewing. I found that this book offers much more information than I needed. However, I did successfully repair my quilt.

The target audience for this book is quilters. The author shares detailed information about binding materials, preparation, and application. The color photos are very clear and helpful. Ms. Stott knows that a quilt takes many hours of work and tedious stitching. The binding is an extremely important part of finishing the quilt. This book will help you design and apply a binding that will survive many years of use.

Quilters will find this book extremely useful. Highly recommended!

MY RATING: 5 STARS OUT OF 5

Thank you to Net Galley for this excellent reading opportunity!

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I’m always looking for some new tricks and tricks and hobbies that I enjoy. When I saw this book, I thought I’d give it a read. I’m glad I did as they were several tips that I had not known about before. Whether you’re just getting started, or you’ve been selling for a while, pick this one up and give it a read. Maybe you’ll learn a new thing or two as well.

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Fantastic resource with tons of information, variations, projects and more, with great step by step photos of gorgeous quilts throughout.

I read a temporary digital copy of this book for review.

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I currently have an unfinished quilt next to my sewing machine. It's just waiting for the binding. I enjoy creating quilts, but I have a strong aversion to binding them. Being so close to completing the quilt, I tend to rush through the binding process, resulting in a less-than-desirable finish that impacts the overall look of the quilt. That's why this book immediately caught my attention!

The author has done an exceptional job in explaining how to achieve a flawless binding for quilts and other sewing projects. From selecting the right fabric to choosing the appropriate presser foot, this book provides clear and comprehensive instructions. I've gained valuable insights, and now I feel confident in my ability to successfully bind my unfinished quilt.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the prepublication copy!

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I love all types of sewing, but have never known how to bind my own projects - until now! This book has certainly given me the confidence and skill set to put the finishing touches to my makes. It’s full of binding and edging ideas, ranging in difficulty and materials needed. Each project / page is explained step by step, with clear accompanying photographs., with helpful tips along the way.
Would definitely recommend.

Thank you to Fox Chapel Publishing and Netgalley for an eARC of this book to read and review.

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Pros: The few times I've made a quilt, I used the self-binding technique. I was interested to expand my skills and knowledge, and I think this book does a great job teaching more advanced options for binding and finishing. I don't know that a complete beginner could learn from a book, but this would be a great place to get inspiration. I think experienced sewers could easily use this book to learn new techniques. The scallops were my favorite!

Cons: None that I can think of!

Thank you to NetGalley and Fox Chapel Publishing, Landauer Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.

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I will definitely be using many of creative binding options that are so beautifully illustrated in this book. These bindings will take a quilt to the next level. No more plain bindings for me! Great resource for any quilter..

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Ultimate Binding and Edge-Finishing Guide for Quilting and Sewing : More than 16 Different Techniques from Basic to Scalloped, Scrappy to Chenille. This is the perfect book for quilters wanting to finish their projects in style. It provides information on binding tools and techniques, including step by step instructions for 16 popular methods. The book is beautifully illustrated throughout and would be the perfect reference guide to refer back to as you sew.

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