Achieving a Clean Look: Finishing a Quilt with Facing Instead of Binding

Step 1: Cut the Facing Strips:

Start by cutting fabric strips that are 4” X WOF. You will need enough WOF strips to make a facing for each side of your quilt that measures 6” less than that side. For example, if your quilt side measures 40 inches, cut your strips to be 34 inches long. This measurement reduces bulk at the corners. Once cut, press each strip in half lengthwise, resulting in a 2-inch folded strip. This folding technique will create a clean and polished edge for your facing strips.

Step 2: Create Neat Corners:

To achieve clean corners without the need for mitering cut four 8” square fabric pieces and fold them in half diagonally to create triangles. Align the raw edges of the triangles with the corners of your quilt, ensuring they match up with the facing strips. Baste close to the edge to secure them.

Step 3: Attach the Facing Strips:

Now, let's attach the facing strips to the sides of your quilt. Take one folded facing strip and center it along one side of the quilt, positioning it 3 inches from each end. Align the raw edges of the strip with the quilt's edge, right sides together. Pin or clip in place. Repeat this step for the remaining sides of the quilt.

Step 4: Stitch the Facing Strips:

Using a 3/8” seam allowance, stitch the facing strips to the quilt. Start from one end and sew along the entire length of the strip, securing it to the quilt. Take your time and sew with precision to ensure a clean and professional finish. Repeat this step for the remaining facing strips.

Step 5: Turn and Press the Facing:

Gently turn the facing to the back of the quilt, ensuring the raw edges are neatly tucked away. Use your fingers or a pressing tool to carefully shape the corners, maintaining their crispness. Press the facing, helping it lie flat against the quilt for a professional and smooth finish.

Step 6: Understitching for a Secure Finish:

To ensure that the facing doesn't roll to the front, consider understitching. Understitching is a technique commonly used in garment sewing to secure facings. From the right side, stitch the seam allowance to the facing close to the seam line. This technique will help the facing lay flat and roll toward the back.

Step 7: Hand stitch the folded edges of the facing and the triangles to the back side of the quilt.

That’s it! Finishing a quilt with facing instead of binding is becoming one of my “go to” methods. By following these steps, you'll achieve a clean and polished look for your quilts. May your future projects be filled with clean edges.

Happy stitching!