Traditional Binding Class

There is homework to do prior to the class.  You will need to have a 4 approximately 18" x 21" quilt "sandwiches" put together.  
If you need instructions on how to do this, please follow the guideline below:

How to Make a Quilt Sandwich (with Spray Basting)

Making a quilt sandwich is a key step in quilting. It’s what holds the layers of your quilt together. Here's a simple guide with spray basting added to help you make your quilt sandwich.

Before you start: You can quilt the 1 yard of fabric and then cut it up into fat quarters or you can cut the fabric into fat quarters and quilt four times. You will need extra batting if you choose to do it the second way.

What You’ll Need:

• 4 fat quarters or 1 yard of fabric for the Top: For this project, you can use a small quilt or a fat quarter of fabric that you like

• Batting: The soft, fluffy middle layer that makes your quilt warm. My preference for bathing is an 80/20 blend, so it can be ironed if needed.

• 4 fat quarters or 1 yard of Backing Fabric: The fabric for the back of your project.

• Masking Tape or Clips: To keep everything in place.

• Spray Basting Adhesive: A temporary glue to hold the layers together. (I really like Usa 505 Spray because of you can reposition your fabric I have also used Quilter’s Select fabric fuse and have had beautiful results with both!)

• Pins: To secure the layers if needed.

• Scissors: For trimming any extra fabric.

• Flat Surface: A table or the floor to lay out your quilt.

• Iron and Ironing board/Wool Mat: To make sure the fabric is as smooth as possible.

Step 1: Prepare the Backing Fabric

• Lay your backing fabric flat on a large, clean surface with the wrong side facing up (the less colorful side).

• Smooth out all the wrinkles.

• If your surface is smaller than the backing fabric, use masking tape or clips to hold the fabric in place.

Step 2: Add the Batting

• Place the a piece of batting that is at least 1 inch bigger on all sides of the on top of the backing fabric.

• Smooth out any wrinkles so it lies flat. Depending on your batting 

Step 3: Place the Quilt Top

• Lay the quilt top on top of the batting with the right side facing up (the colorful side).

• Center the quilt top, leaving a few inches of batting and backing fabric around the edges.

• Smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles.

Step 4: Baste the Layers Together

Option 1: Spray Basting

• Fold back half of the quilt top to expose the batting.

• Lightly spray the exposed batting with spray-basting adhesive.

• Carefully lay the quilt top back down, smoothing it as you go to ensure it adheres to the batting without wrinkles.

• Repeat the process for the other half of the quilt top.

• Optionally, repeat the same process for the batting and backing fabric.

Option 2: Pin Basting

• Starting from the center of the quilt, place safety pins or quilting pins about a hand’s width apart, working your way out to the edges.

• Pin through all three layers: quilt top, batting, and backing fabric.

• Make sure the layers stay smooth as you pin, adjusting as necessary.

Option 3: Combined Method

• Use spray basting to hold the layers in place, then add pins for extra security, especially around the edges and in areas where more stability is needed.

Step 5: Trim the Edges (Optional)

• Trim any excess batting or backing fabric to make it easier to handle while quilting. Leave at least an inch of batting around the edges so that in case your project shifts.

Step 6: Quilt Your Project

Now that your quilt sandwich is ready, it’s time to quilt!

Option 1: Quilting with a Sewing Machine

• Choose a Quilting Design: You can do straight lines, a grid pattern, or more complex designs like free-motion quilting, the choice is yours!

• Set Up Your Sewing Machine: Use a walking foot or free-motion quilting foot, depending on your design.

• Start Quilting: Begin quilting in the center of your quilt and work your way out to prevent wrinkles or puckering.

• For straight-line quilting: Sew along the seams (also known as “stitch in the ditch”) or use the edge of the presser foot as a guide for evenly spaced lines.

• For free-motion quilting: Lower the feed dogs on your sewing machine and move the quilt under the needle in any pattern you like.

Option 2: Hand Quilting

Step 7: Trim the Edges 

It's time to trim the quilt batting and backing. Some quilters leave a ¼" from the edge of your quilt top, however, I have always had my quilts trimmed right to the edge of the quilt. This is personal preference, one is not better than the other. It is just what you like.

Links to helpful products: