Jennifer23

Instead of ironing it in half, you just fold it in half, then apply as usual. I always used to iron it, but then I tried not ironing, and got better results with fewer burnt fingers. Now I don't waste my time!

joe'smom

I love my bias binding. Seeing straight cut bindings worn bare along the grain line convinced me that bias bindings do last longer.

madamekelly

Bias only. Straight binding is just too contrary, and has formed a twist every time I have tried it. I used my leftover bindings to create scrappy crochet bath rugs.

bearisgray

I use bias binding -

I fold it in half - and then pin the edges together so that the fabric is laying smooth - no warps or bulges or wrinkles on either side of the fold - and then I machine baste the edges together - about 1/8 inch from the edge with a long, slightly zig-zag stitch. I do not remove this stitching. One can, but I don't.

It probably does not save any time in the short run - but it is a lot easier for me to control the binding when there is only one "edge" of it to keep track of - and my bindings are excellent (if I do say so myself!)

Wonnie

Cut my bindings 2 1/4" on the true bias..... do iron it in half but really like the idea of basting raw edges together.....would work well for me because I love handwork anyway.

Jeanette Frantz

Generally, I cut my binding straight, lengthwise of grain, unless there are curves or scallops (and I stay away from them if I can - lol!). If I have curved/rounded corners, I do true bias. I cut the binding 2-1/2", double-fold and stitch to the front, and turn the folded edge to the back, hand-stitch. The reasons I cut binding lengthwise of the grain are: It's far easier to cut it straight, and lengthwise of the grain doesn't stretch, and there's fewer pieces to stitch together (bias seam). I use the method demonstrated by Jenny Doan, MSQC, in her video(except that I cut my binding lengthwise of the grain), and find that my bindings are (almost) perfect.

MommyA

Like many of you I prefer bias for large quilts using the straight method only for small quilts that will not be getting hard use. If I take my time pressing and adding to the quilt, I have no trouble with stretching. Next question: Do you always join the binding pieces on the bias? It certainly makes a smother finished look. If this falls close to a corner, I will cut a small piece out and add to the other end of necessary. Sometimes I lightly pin the binding on to make sure the joints are not at the corners. I also like to use a small stripe on many of my quilts. A red and white (cream) binding adds much to small Christmas table toppers, etc. When using stripes, I like to match perfectly the stripes when sewing the pieces together. Probably doesn't make much difference, but that way no one can see where the joints are.

Bobbielinks

I'm a bias binding person. The only time I don't use bias is if I am running short on fabric to make the binding.

EmiliasNana

I cut bias 2 1/4" if it is for a scalloped or curved corner quilt, otherwise mostly 2 1/2" WOF, unless I have enough for lengthwise. I sew the edges on the bias for one long strip and iron in half. I then apply it to the back of the quilt at about 3/8", fold over to the front and machine stitch next to the folded edge with a straight stitch, adjusting my sewing machine needle to the right and using my blind hem foot with the guide down the middle. I use the point of my seam ripper to hold the fold over to the guide while I am sewing. I do this with all but my show quilts as most of my quilts are given away and I expect to be used or drug on the floor by a child.

ArtsyOne

Almost always 2-1/2" bias unless I have the perfect already-cut jelly roll strip. I like a graphically strong binding like stripes or polka dots.