I am working on the Spicy Spiral Table Mat and noticed some used binding to finish off the outside, others just sewed front and back and flipped. With all your good experiences which usage will make the mat look more professional and lay flatter. WHY
I like the effect of binding and the chance to add a contrasting narrow "frame" around the piece. It also allows you to quilt more freely: any shifting of the backing won't be an issue, and you can start and stop at an edge (no need to finish off).
I've made a few of these runners, and have taught the class more than a couple of times... Generally I am a fan of binding, but for this particular project the binding can detract from the design of the Spiral part. Also, if you bind you must use bias because the entire outside edge is curved. So, I go with the pattern and layer, stitch, trim and turn the runner before quilting it. It really does help keep the curve flowing. OH, and a tip: when you are going to leave an opening to turn something. If you do a basting type stitch, by machine, on the seamline of the area to be left open first. That is stitch through single layers (or one layer and batting) . It really helps a lot. The stitching helps keep the opening from stretching, and it gives you a line to turn on. If you need to you can remove the basting, but often it just disappears into the seam.
OH, and a tip: when you are going to leave an opening to turn something. If you do a basting type stitch, by machine, on the seamline of the area to be left open first. That is stitch through single layers (or one layer and batting) . It really helps a lot. The stitching helps keep the opening from stretching, and it gives you a line to turn on. If you need to you can remove the basting, but often it just disappears into the seam.
Pati, in Phx
I always do this on quillows. It really does help to make a neater closure.
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