Binding Mini Mini Quilts & #MQGKeepCalmAndSewOn

As part of the Modern Quilt Guild’s #MQGKeepCalmandSewOn weekly content, this week MQG members can download a PDF I created to help think about exploring design constraints through small makes: mini mini quilts. Mini mini quilts are tiny, think “mug rug” size or 5″ per side or smaller. In short, mini mini quilts are a great way to explore design in a low risk way.

If you are an MQG member, be sure to log in and download the Design Constraints: Mini Mini Quilts PDF Download.

Today, I wanted to focus on how to finish these tiny makes in a more detailed photo tutorial. Binding something so tiny can be a challenge, and it took me many tries to figure out a method that works for me.

1. I have found that binding Mini Mini quilts works best with a single fold binding.
2. I measure the perimeter of the Mini Mini quilt and add between 2″ and 5″.
3. I cut my binding to be 1½” x length calculated in the step above.
4. I personally attach Mini Mini quilt binding by machine to the front and back; but they can also be finished by hand.
   1. If attaching by machine, first attach to the back of the Mini Mini quilt.
   2. If finishing by hand, first attach to the front of the Mini Mini quilt.

Binding Step 1

Start with a few stitches before one corner and backstitch to secure the start.

Note 1: As shown here, if I have the option, I always start on the longer edge.

Note 2: Sew with a scant ¼” seam allowance, especially if you have points to preserve on the front. Also consider trimming to ⅜” beyond points when trimming the quilt square prior to binding.

Binding Step 2

After securing the first side with a few stitches, I work my way around the quilt as I would normally add binding, mitering the corners as I go.

Binding Step 3

When I get back to the start of the side where I began, I only add a few stitches, securing with backstitching.

Note that due to the short edge length, I choose to join the binding with a straight seam.

Fold the ends of the binding back to meet with a small gap (⅛” or less). Using the finger pressed lines, join the binding and trim ¼” seam allowance. I press the seam open to reduce bulk.

Binding Step 4

Finish stitching down binding along the final side.

Binding Step 5

Fold binding around toward the unfinished side of the Mini Mini quilt.

Binding Step 6

Finger fold the raw edge of the binding under, starting at the corners.

Binding Step 7

Machine stitch (or hand stitch as desired) binding down to finish.

Enjoy your mini mini!

Linking up with Tips and Tutorials on the 22nd with Kathleen McMusing.