Big stitch quilt binding is a beautiful way to add personality and handmade charm to your quilts, turning the finishing process into an artistic statement. This technique uses bold, decorative stitches to secure the binding, creating a unique and eye-catching detail that stands out. In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to earn the Big Stitch Quilt Binding Badge, including step-by-step instructions, a supply list, and a video tutorial to help you master this skill. Whether you’re new to hand quilting or looking for a fresh way to finish your quilts, big stitch binding is a fun, easy, and rewarding method to try!
Table of Contents
- About the Badge
- Big Stitch Quilt Binding Tutorial with Video Tutorial
- Big Stitch Quilt Binding Kit
About the Badge
The Big Stitch Quilt Binding Badge introduces scouts to the technique of hand-sewing quilt bindings using larger, decorative stitches. This badge emphasizes the skills of hand stitching and attention to detail, and it encourages scouts to add a personal, artistic touch to finishing their quilting projects.
Badge Requirements
- Learn about the tools and materials needed for big stitch binding, including the types of thread and needles.
- Understand the differences between standard quilt binding and big stitch binding, including aesthetic and functional aspects.
- Practice making big stitches on a fabric sample to gain consistency in stitch length and spacing.
- Complete a quilt (or a smaller project like a table runner or placemat) and finish it using the big stitch binding technique.
Shop Badges
Order your Big Stitch Quilt Binding Badge here.
Big Stitch Quilt Binding Tutorial
Big stitch quilt binding is a fun trend that I have been seeing more and more in the quilting world and it is a great way to add some character to your quilts. Hand sewing my quilt binding with big stitches has quickly become my preferred method. I love the extra special touch that it adds to a quilt, plus it’s relatively quick to do! I have gotten so many compliments on this binding stitch, and just as many questions about how to do it. So, if you’ve been wanting to try big stitch quilt binding, consider trying this unique alternative to machine binding.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase using these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
What kind of thread do I use for big stitch quilt binding?
The keystone to big stitch quilt binding is to use a thicker thread. I like using DMC Pearl Cotton or WonderFil Perle Cotton in size 8. DMC also makes embroidery floss in sizes 5 (thicker) and 12 (finer), but I find size 8 is just right. The best part is that DMC has over 230 colors to choose from and WonderFil has 200 colors, including variegated colors! Because the big stitch is meant to be a feature of the quilt (rather than being hidden), I would suggest choosing a thread color that will stand out against your binding fabric and coordinate with the rest of the quilt.
Supply List
- Perle Cotton Thread #8
- Large Sewing Needles (Size 5)
- Embroidery Scissors
- 3 to 4 Binding Clips
- Thimble
- Optional: Thread Gloss
Step 1: Machine Sew the Binding to the Quilt Top
Start by sewing your quilt binding to the front of your quilt. I like to use 2.25″ binding, but you can use whatever width binding that you prefer. Sew the binding to the quilt by lining up the raw edges of the binding with the raw edges of the quilt. Using your sewing machine, stitch a 1/4″ seam allowance around the perimeter of your quilt. You can use a walking foot if you have one, but a regular presser foot is perfectly fine. Connect the ends of the binding and make sure to backstitch at the start and finish to keep it in place.
Step 2: Hand Sew the Binding to the Quilt Back
Now we can start handing sewing the binding to the quilt backing!
+ show Comments
- Hide Comments
add a comment