I've debated getting one of these little binding makers for a while, but was worried I'd hardly use it. Now I wonder why I didn't get one sooner! Although I probably won't use it to bind quilts, it is perfect for making ties, drawstrings, and binding edges on little things {mug rugs, anyone?!}. It's super easy to use too!
One little thing, when I bought mine, I didn't know which size to buy, but, in case you're looking, the measurement listed is the size the binding will be straight out of the binding maker. So, I bought a 1" and then the folded size is 1/2". I'm thinking I should go back and buy a 3/4"...which is what I really wanted in the first place {I just didn't know it at the time!}.
We're thinking about doing some posts on our favorite sewing/quilting tools, supplies, accessories, etc. Are there any you've been wondering about?
Thank you! I have seen these, but like you didn't think I would ever use it since most of my binding is for quilts. It would be great for drawstrings, though, on bags and pajama bottoms.
ReplyDeleteWish I would have thought of using a binding maker for my project I am working on today!! Great tutorial!
ReplyDeleteSo handy to know this, Ive been debating one of these for a while now, will put it on my birthday list!
ReplyDeleteOooh, that is so cool!
ReplyDeleteI was looking at these the other day debating whether to buy one myself! Just curious though, why would you not use then que quilt binding?
ReplyDeleteKate, the only reason I don't use them for quilt binding is because I use this binding method {http://www.cloverandviolet.com/2011/11/embroidery-101-finishing-quilt-part-2.html}, and I am happy with it! However, I'm sure it would be great {in a larger size} if you use bias tape style binding!
DeleteThese are fabulous! Adding one to my Amazon list now. Thanks for the size tip. That was super helpful.
ReplyDeleteThey also make great bias stems if you are into applique.
ReplyDeleteI bought one of these a while ago but haven't used it yet....now I am inspired to make me a little collection of binding rolls ready for new projects!
ReplyDeleteHelen x
I love these, and have a few in different sizes. I use them mostly for applique stems like Ramona said. Your little pile of bindings looks so pretty!
ReplyDeleteI have a bunch in different sizes and LOVE them, I use them at least once a week!
ReplyDeleteActually, Jennie, this is EXACTLY the advice I needed. I've picked these puppies up & put 'em down more times than I can count. NOWHERE could I find a mention of the size being the finished size or the going-in size, and I didn't want to plunk out all that much to get the wrong one, or one I wouldn't use. Thank you sooo much for letting us see how they work and what they're all about!! My burnt fingertips will love you forever!
ReplyDeletei'd like to know more about rulers-i know, maybe boring...
ReplyDeleteHow cool is this...I'd so buy one of these because I'm horrible at doing my own bindings :) :) Love and hugs from the ocean shores of California, Heather :) :)
ReplyDeletep.s...and yes, I was thinking about using these for mug rugs, too :) :) :)
The 3/4 inch one you are going to buy. Is that the finished size of the binding so you would be buying size........Or if it is a 3/4 inch one what size binding do you finish with.....
ReplyDeleteAs from Oz we have metric so always flip-flop between measurements - as we get both different measurements in store. So with dual tape measure I travel as eyeballing is not necessarily accurate in small sizes.
Thanks for your help.
Zusan, the 3/4" is the size of the binding maker, so it will have a finished size of 3/8". The one I have right now is a 1" and it makes a 1/2" binding! Hope that helps!
DeleteWe have found that not all brands work well. In this neck of the woods, we only buy the Clover brands. Jennie, if you prefer not having brand mentioned, feel free to remove!
ReplyDeleteI use mine mostly for applique stems, so if i use my half inch maker, the stem is a half inch wide. If i used the same tape on the edge of a mug rug, it would fold over and look to be a quarter inch wide. Hope this helps rather than confuses!
Thanks for the tip Becky! Mine is a Clover Bias Tape Maker too. Also, that makes perfect sense why they're sized that way too, who knew {not me, obviously - or I would have bought the right size to begin with!}.
DeleteYou know, I actually have two different sizes of these things somewhere in my sewing room and I never think to use them. Thanks for the reminder!! I learned an amazing trick in a workshop once where you actually press Steam a Seam 1/4" tape onto the wrong side of the binding simultaneously as it comes out of the binding maker and presto, you have fusible bias stems!
ReplyDelete