mtkoldra

hi, this is a question for those of you who work with batiks. I am finishing my first batik quilt, all it needs is binding.
Since it is a bit harder to work with batik because of the fabric density, I have a question regarding the binding.
Will I be ok with straight grain cuts?
should I make binding a bit wider for french binding like 2.5" wide?
or perhaps, single binding will be sufficient?

thank you

mike'sgirl

I always use french binding regardless if its batik or quilters cotton. You might need a different needle to hand sew the back down. Probably a sharp, whereas I usually use a between.

DebraK

I learn something new everyday. I never knew it was called French binding. I use batiks the same way I use any other cotton. No problems using 2.25 strips, so far.

PaperPrincess

I don't do anything different with my batik quilts when binding. Actually, I don't do anything different with batik fabrics at all!

ManiacQuilter2

Ditto that. I was taught that it is called double folded binding. Yes DebraK, we are getting older but wiser!!

Kitsie

I've not found any problem with binding batiks and I've always done straight of grain. I use the double binding as with all my quilts. Good luck with it!

mtkoldra

thank you ladies, you are the greatest!! thank you very much for prompt responses. I just needed reassurance that I am doing the right thing with the batik quilt.
as of this moment the banding is sewn onto the quilt, tonight will hand stitch it and hopefully tomorrow I can show it off.

NJ Quilter

This is me as well. Currently working on a quilt that is about 98% batiks. Wouldn't occur to me to not use straight-grain binding at my typical 2.25".

Jeanne S

Same here! I just use them like any other cotton fabric.

Shelbie

Why don't you machine bind your quilt as you know batiks are densely woven and it may be difficult to hand stitch the binding? Stitch the binding on the back (I use 2.5 inch double fold continuous bias binding) bring it to the front and top stitch it with one of your fancy machine stitches. I can bind a King sized quilt in an hour this way.