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Seam binding ribbon is a type of bias tape that is used to finish raw edges of fabric.
It is typically made from rayon and has a smooth, slightly stretchy texture.
Table Of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Seam binding ribbon is a lightweight, delicate ribbon made from rayon that is used to prevent fraying and shifting at the edges of seams.
- It can be sewn or hand-stitched in place and comes in a variety of colors and widths to suit different projects.
- Some benefits of using seam binding ribbon include preventing fraying and shifting, adding minimal bulk to seams, and being customizable to create different styles and effects.
- There are three main methods for applying seam binding ribbon: the double-seamed method, the pre-fold method, and the pre-fold hand-stitched method.
Seam Binding Ribbon: Materials and Recommendations
To achieve the best results, choose Hug Snug Rayon Seam Binding or any rayon binding.
Avoid substitutes like twill tape, polyester hem tape, or single/double fold bias tape.
Sew seams before applying hem tape to prevent stretching issues in piecing.
Choose the Right Type of Rayon Binding
Are you wondering which type of rayon binding is the right choice for your sewing projects? Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
- Choose high-quality rayon binding for its sheer and delicate finish.
- Avoid substitutes like twill tape or bias tape to prevent stretching and bulk.
- Hand sew seams before applying hem tape for added stability.
- Select 100% rayon seam binding ribbon to ensure the best quality and results in your projects.
Avoid Substitutes and Polyester Hem Tape
Avoid using substitutes like twill tape, polyester hem tape, or single/double fold bias tape when applying seam binding ribbon.
Rayon binding provides a delicate finish, enhances the overall appearance, and prevents stretching issues in piecing.
Ensure the right side of the fabric is facing when applying seam binding for clarity.
Sew Seams Before Applying Hem Tape
Sew seams before applying hem tape to prevent stretching issues in piecing.
Benefits of using rayon binding include:
-Prevents fraying
-Prevents shifting
-Lightweight
-Delicate
Benefits of Using Rayon Binding
When using rayon binding for your seam finishing, you’ll enjoy the benefits of:
- A lightweight, delicate, and polished finish that enhances the overall appearance of your project.
- Rayon binding is easy to use and perfect for achieving a shabbilicious and vintage aesthetic in your crafting projects.
Proper Positioning of Binding on Fabric
With the right side of the fabric facing, position the binding on the wrong side, allowing overhang for thickness.
4 Tips for Proper Positioning of Binding on Fabric:
- Allow overhang to prevent stretching.
- Use sheer quality to guide placement.
- Fold the remaining half to encase the raw edge.
- Secure with pins if needed.
Methods for Applying Seam Binding Ribbon
There are three methods for applying seam binding ribbon:
- The double-seamed method
- The pre-fold method
- The pre-fold hand stitched method
The double-seamed method involves:
- Sewing the seam conventionally
- Ironing the seam flat
- Positioning the binding on the wrong side
The pre-fold method involves:
- Sewing the seam as usual
- Ironing the seam flat
- Cutting binding lengths with pinking shears
- Folding binding unevenly
- Pinning to the right side of the fabric
The pre-fold hand stitched method involves:
- Following the pre-fold method steps
- Hand stitching using a running stitch and occasional backstitches
Double-Seamed Method
After sewing the seam conventionally, you can apply the binding to the wrong side, allowing overhang for thickness.
To achieve this using the double-seamed method:
- Pin and sew your seam as usual.
- Iron flat your seam.
- Position the binding on the wrong side of fabric, aligning it with raw edge.
- Stitch in place without pins by folding remaining half of binding to encase raw edge.
Pre-Fold Method
Pre-folding the binding is an alternative method for applying seam binding ribbon.
- Pin and sew the seam as usual.
- Cut binding lengths with pinking shears.
- Unevenly fold and pin the binding to the right side of the fabric.
- Machine stitch close to the edge, adjusting for a flat seam if needed.
- Steam press for a finished seam edge resistant to unraveling.
Pre-Fold Hand Stitched Method
After pre-folding the binding, hand stitch it using a running stitch and occasional backstitches. This method is ideal for piled fabrics like velvet or thicker wools. It offers relaxation and stability in preventing shifting, and it results in a finished seam edge resistant to unraveling.
Tips and Considerations for Using Seam Binding Ribbon
When using seam binding ribbon, it’s important to note that the technique can be time-consuming. However, lightweight rayon binding avoids adding bulk to seams and imparts a vintage feel.
Additionally, be sure to finish perpendicular seams in the same direction before cross seams, and consider using rayon binding as effective hem tape.
Time-consuming Nature of the Technique
Applying seam binding ribbon is a time-consuming technique, but it results in a delicate finish that enhances the overall appearance of your projects.
Lightweight rayon binding prevents bulk and shifting, and can be used as hem tape.
Benefits of Lightweight Rayon Binding
Lightweight rayon binding avoids adding bulk to seams and imparts a vintage feel.
The benefits of using lightweight rayon binding include:
- Preventing stretching in the fabric
- Creating a delicate finish
- It can also be used as effective hem tape for clean edges
When looking for suppliers, consider options like Mattiecakes’ Etsy shop or fabric.
Follow these tips and techniques to enhance your vintage crafting projects with seam binding ribbon.
Proper Sequencing of Finishing Perpendicular and Cross Seams
Once you have sewn your perpendicular seams, it’s important to properly sequence the finishing of cross seams using seam binding ribbon. This technique helps prevent stretching, avoid bulk, and prevent unraveling while achieving a shabbilicious aesthetic or vintage look.
By following the correct sequencing of finishing perpendicular and cross seams, you can ensure a polished and professional result in your sewing projects.
Other Uses for Rayon Binding, Such as Hem Tape
One common use for rayon binding, such as hem tape, is to secure hems and prevent fraying.
Rayon binding is lightweight, easy to use, and versatile. It can be used on a variety of projects, both big and small.
To use rayon binding as hem tape, simply moisten the ribbon and scrunch it into a ball.
Recommended Suppliers for Purchasing Rayon Binding
Consider purchasing seam binding from suppliers like Mattiecakes’ Etsy shop or fabric.
- 124 colors
- 5-meter bags for £1.00
- 6 colors for £5.00
Different Styles and Effects With Seam Binding Ribbon
Seam binding ribbon can be used to achieve a modern or vintage look.
To achieve a modern look, leave the ribbon as is.
To achieve a vintage look, dampen the ribbon with water, scrunch it into a ball, and leave it overnight to dry.
Modern Look Vs. Vintage Look
You can maintain a crisp, clean appearance by leaving the ribbon as is for a modern look, or achieve a crinkly, aged effect by spraying the ribbon with water, scrunching it into a ball, and leaving it overnight for a vintage look.
| Modern Look | Vintage Look |
|---|---|
| Crisp, clean appearance | Aged, crinkly look |
Techniques for Achieving a Vintage Crinkled Effect
To achieve a vintage crinkled effect, you can:
- Moisten the ribbon with water.
- Scrunch it into a ball.
- Leave it overnight to dry.
Color Options and Offers for Seam Binding Ribbon
With the vintage look achieved, you can choose between a modern look or a vintage look for your seam binding ribbon. Choose from 124 colors, with 5-meter bags available for £1.00 each. Purchase any 5 colors and receive one additional color for free (6 colors for £5.
00..
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Color Variety | 124 colors |
| Pricing | 5-meter bags for £1.00 each |
| Bundle Offer | Buy any 5 colors and get another one free (6 colors for £5. |
| 00. | |
| Color Accuracy | Every effort made to ensure color accuracy |
| Sample Requests | Samples can be requested for a closer look |
| Supplier | Mattiecakes’ Etsy shop or fabric.com |
Color Accuracy and Samples
While every effort is made to simulate colors as closely as possible, screen resolution can sometimes limit the accuracy.
A color sheet is available for reference, and samples can be requested for a closer look.
Dyeing and Customizing Seam Binding Ribbon
You can dye seam binding ribbon using different methods, such as:
- Scrunching and tying it into a ball before immersing it in a dye solution.
- Moistening the ribbon and scrunching it into a ball.
You can also achieve a crinkled effect without dyeing by moistening the ribbon and scrunching it into a ball.
Different Methods for Dyeing the Ribbon
Once you have achieved the desired style for your seam binding ribbon, you can dye it to customize the look.
- Scrunch and tie the ribbon, then immerse it in a dye solution.
- Place the ribbon directly into the dye solution and soak until desired color is reached.
- Moisten the ribbon with water, scrunch it into a ball, and secure with a rubber band.
- Leave the scrunched ribbon to dry overnight.
- Release the rubber band after drying to reveal a crinkled effect.
Steps for Scrunching, Tying, and Drying the Ribbon
To achieve a crinkled, aged effect, scrunch up the ribbon and secure it into a ball using a rubber band or mini hair tie.
After securing the ribbon, let it dry overnight to set the crinkles.
This process allows for customization of seam binding ribbon by creating unique textures and adding depth to your projects. The drying time ensures that the ribbon retains its desired appearance once released from its secured state.
| Steps |
|---|
| Scrunch up the ribbon |
| Secure with rubber band or mini hair tie |
| Let dry overnight |
Alternative Dyeing Methods and Crinkling Techniques
You can also dye seam binding ribbon using alternative methods and techniques to achieve a crinkled effect.
- Scrunch up the ribbon and secure it into a ball using a rubber band.
- Immerse the scrunched ribbon in a dye solution for about 10 minutes.
- Release the rubber band after drying to reveal a crinkled ribbon with a mottled dark edge.
Tips for Achieving a Vintage Look With Coffee Dye
In addition to the methods discussed above, you can also achieve a vintage look by using coffee dye.
Simply moisten the ribbon with water, scrunch it into a ball, and secure it with a rubber band.
Then, immerse the scrunched ribbon in a coffee dye solution for about 10 minutes or until the desired color is achieved.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where can I purchase quality rayon seam binding ribbon?
You can purchase quality rayon seam binding ribbon from Mattiecakes’ Etsy shop or fabric.
Can I use a different type of ribbon or tape as a substitute for seam binding?
Seam binding is a type of ribbon used to finish raw edges.
You can use twill tape, polyester hem tape, or single/double fold bias tape as a substitute, but rayon binding provides a delicate finish that enhances the overall appearance.
How do I achieve a vintage or crinkled effect with seam binding ribbon?
To achieve a vintage or crinkled effect with seam binding ribbon,
Dampen the ribbon with water.
Scrunch it into a ball.
Leave it overnight to dry.
Are there any tips for preventing stretching issues when applying seam binding?
To prevent stretching issues when applying seam binding, sew the seams before applying the hem tape.
What are the benefits of hand stitching seam binding compared to machine stitching?
Hand stitching seam binding is ideal for piled fabrics like velvet or thicker wools as it offers relaxation and stability in preventing shifting.
Conclusion
Now that you know what seam binding ribbon is and how to use it, you can add a professional touch to your sewing projects.
