How To Bind A Baby Blanket: A Step By Step Guide
As a new parent, I wanted to make sure that my baby had the best of everything. I spent hours researching the perfect crib, the softest blankets, and the most comfortable clothes. However, when it came to binding the baby blanket, I was completely lost. I didn’t want to use pins or tape, and I wanted the binding to be secure and durable. After some trial and error, I finally found a method that worked for me. In this article, I will share my step by step guide on how to bind a baby blanket.
Step By Step Guide
Materials Needed:
- Baby Blanket
- Bias Tape
- Sewing Machine
- Pins
- Scissors
Instructions:
- Wash and dry the baby blanket to pre-shrink it.
- Cut the bias tape to the length of the blanket sides plus a few inches extra.
- Pin the bias tape to the edge of the blanket on one side, right sides together.
- Sew the bias tape to the blanket using a straight stitch.
- Trim the excess bias tape and fold it over the edge of the blanket.
- Pin the folded bias tape down and sew it in place.
- Repeat steps 3-6 for the remaining three sides of the blanket.
- Trim any loose threads and iron the blanket to give it a neat finish.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
- Choose a bias tape that matches or complements the color of the blanket.
- Use a double-fold bias tape for extra durability.
- Practice on a scrap piece of fabric before starting on the actual blanket.
- Choose a sewing machine with a zigzag stitch for added strength.
- Use a walking foot to ensure that the layers of the blanket and bias tape stay aligned.
- Secure the bias tape with pins before sewing to prevent it from shifting.
- Use a rotary cutter instead of scissors for a cleaner cut.
- Iron the bias tape before sewing to reduce wrinkles.
- Use a contrasting bias tape for a decorative touch.
- Hand-sew the bias tape in place for a more traditional look.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Binding a baby blanket adds durability and prevents fraying.
- Bias tape comes in a variety of colors and patterns to match any blanket.
- Binding a baby blanket is a simple and affordable DIY project.
- Bound baby blankets can be passed down as heirlooms for generations.
Cons:
- Binding a baby blanket requires a sewing machine and some sewing skills.
- The binding may add weight and thickness to the blanket.
- The binding may need to be replaced over time if it becomes worn or damaged.
Personal Review and Suggestion
I found this method of binding a baby blanket to be easy and effective. The bias tape adds a professional finish and makes the blanket more durable. I recommend using a double-fold bias tape for added strength and choosing a color that complements the blanket. Overall, binding a baby blanket is a simple and rewarding DIY project that any parent can do.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Can I use a serger instead of a sewing machine?
A: Yes, a serger can be used to bind a baby blanket. However, it may not be as durable as a sewn binding.
Q: Can I use a different type of binding instead of bias tape?
A: Yes, there are many types of bindings that can be used such as ribbon, lace, or even a self-binding where the edge of the blanket is folded over and sewn in place.
Q: Can I bind a baby blanket without a sewing machine?
A: Yes, a baby blanket can be bound by hand-sewing the binding in place. This will take more time and effort, but it is still a viable option.