Bias Binding

I've been lucky to get one of the first copies of Ann Fahl's new booklet on "Beautiful Bias Bindings" and wanted to spread the news about it. If you have had problems in finishing your quilts, from small placemat-sized ones to larger wall and bed quilts, this very informative booklet with tons of photos and information will be your best friend.

Also included are instructions on preparing your quilt for binding, squaring up, blocking, steaming, measuring, getting it all perfect and flat and square and true so that the binding will be the perfect finishing touch.

From fabric choices for pretty bindings, to how to cut, seam, and apply, Ann leads you through the process with a practical and straightforward approach so that you are not guessing. She tells you everything, even how to hand stitch the binding to the back and have it look wonderful.

This was one of the skills I had to learn on my own by trial and error and back 20 years ago would have loved to own this book and skip all the weird corners, the lumpy joins, and guesswork. I love bias binding, my choice, and have only used straight-grain binding a few times due to not having enough fabric. Bias gives a beautiful smooth edge and the spring or bounce in it keeps the quilt edges in control, sort of like a bit of spandex in your jeans.

There is a little measuring tool included in the package so you can apply the binding with no guessing at where that corner dot should be. It will also come in handy to keep at your machine or cutting table when you need a quick measurement.

Ann has the booklet (size of a quilt pattern) available on her website for ordering; just click on "bias binding" on the list of pages. Her website is http://www.annfahl.com/

This summer I am trying to do one terrible task a day that I've been putting off or unable to do because of my iffy back. Some things just are not easily done if one cannot bend over! It's a good feeling, and then I can spend some time at my machine, or with my cat, or take a walk in the sunshine and get some Vitamin D. Hope your summer has relaxing fun times as well as some smile-making accomplishments.

Diane