Basic Binding Techniques for Cuddle® Minky Plush Fabric

As with anything in sewing, binding is a skill that requires a bit of both patience and practice! By keeping a few tips and techniques in mind, binding a quilt or blanket is easier than you’d think.
Before we begin, let’s first define what “binding” means. Essentially, traditional binding is when you finish an edge of a quilt or blanket by sewing on trim.
This week, for Sew Together Tuesday, Shannon Fabrics National Educator Teresa Coates goes all-in on binding Cuddle® minky plush fabric quilts and blankets. Not only does she share her expert tips, but we’ve also included our downloadable tip sheets on how to combine cotton and Cuddle®, as well as how to bind a quilt with Cuddle®.
Basic Binding Techniques for Cuddle®: bit.ly/33iH0F3
Visit our Store Locator to see where to buy our fabric: bit.ly/2Pv8SNA
Shannon Fabrics blog: bit.ly/2YGC7kn
Shannon Fabrics Instagram: bit.ly/2UpIFAB
Cuddle® minky plush fabric: bit.ly/2HYzNAh
Luxe Cuddle® minky plush fabric: bit.ly/2J6bZuQ
Luxury faux fur fabric: bit.ly/2Vqd4V4
Embrace® double gauze fabric: bit.ly/2AwzWch
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[@ufoquilter86]

Before I sew anything with cuddle etc … always watch your videos! You explain it so I can understand it and I appreciate your videos! I love the stuffies and can’t make one if you have made a video first because I love you spin on it and always full of great tips and techniques ❤

[@donnacook2531]

Your explanations are so good! Especially the use of the tool to hold the cuddle under the foot! Thank you so very much!

[@ShannonFabrics]

You are so welcome! I'm glad it helped! --teresa

[@janedial8787]

Love your new look video's (so much better than the older ones

[@ingfig1]

TIP: instead of throwing away the scraps of minky and/or batting, I save them for stuffing soft toys, pillows, dog/cat beds. Soft, washable and quick-drying!

[@soulelee]

Thank you, this is the best instructional video I have watched. You are an amazing teacher and I learned so much.

[@ajaneheath1041]

Valley of Fire was beautiful! We went through a camping area at supper time. YUMMY SMELLS !

[@pennyw5050]

Thank you for all you do. I am so happy I can go back and re watch when I am stuck

[@kathryndaniel9505]

Thank you. I always learn sew (so) much when I watch your videos.

[@marcysikes]

Thank you! I am learning so much! Hoping this new knowledge translates into the hoped for result!😂 ❣️. There is so much information here! I hope I can find what I need when I need it! Saving this video for sure!

[@marshawallace7522]

I really like the way the weave cuddle looks when sewn down. Finishes a quilt beautifully. I really appreciate all your explanations, Teresa! I am watching numerous videos before I attempt using Cuddle. Keep teaching us all the tricks.

[@ShannonFabrics]

You are so welcome! I'm happy to help! Also, I know it's not super close, but Ann Arbor Sewing Center has a great selection of Cuddle fabrics.

[@angiehuddleston9700]

So helpful before I do my first ever. And I love your sew and "hope for the best" attitude!

[@deltagilbert2867]

I’m current finishing up my 3rd Bambino . I love these and an making 2 more cuddle kits shortly

[@lavonnethompson117]

Thanks for all the info for sewing minki!

[@lavonnethompson117]

Wonderful! Great tutorial.

[@ByCherS]

Excellent class, I learned a great deal today!!!❤️💚❤️

[@ashleyklooster1400]

You are so good at explaining things- thank you! I had been so afraid to try minky and my daughter wants her quilt backed with it!

[@ShannonFabrics]

Glad it was helpful! You can totally do it--quilts with Cuddle on the back are the very best! --teresa

[@dorothyferguson7319]

Watching the replay! Thank you for all the tips!

[@barbcnockaert5062]

I found out you can use Press & Seal wrap. ‘Glad’ I think. It keeps the loose fur from sloughing off. You have minimal on your cutting board.

[@lindagillespie6556]

I love binding with minky

[@kristienorsedragonwebber1328]

Arghhhh! I thought I kept breaking my rotary cutters and buying new ones. I kept putting the stupid screws on backwards. Thank you!!

[@slyefox1]

Thank you for explaining this.

[@shelleyhughesgoings3654]

Thank you for doing this I'm learning so much from you

[@ShannonFabrics]

Happy to help! -teresa

[@cherylwilson8974]

Super helpful video, thank you!

[@ShannonFabrics]

You're very welcome! --teresa

[@lindagillespie8413]

Awesome…checking out any of your videos , love the Shannon fabrics sooooo much!

[@lindastone3278]

The Vally of Fire is a very interesting place to visit.

[@connieruyle8718]

Learned so much. Thank you.

[@ShannonFabrics]

You are so welcome!

[@bonniewilliamson110]

You are so talented ❣️

[@lindagillespie6556]

This is so helpful

[@ladyme578]

Hello, I just want to put binding on a plush material . I’m new. I’m now making a quilt, just want to go around the material

[@Dee-cg2fx]

Ty!

[@ufoquilter86]

Are you flipping the fabric under a bit so that the raw edge is under the binding when you are stitching it down for the final time before you do your zigzag or decorative stitch?

[@ShannonFabrics]

You do not need to flip the raw edge under. You can top stitch right over that edge and hold it in place. --teresa

[@lavonnethompson117]

Anybody know what size needle she uses for minky?

[@ShannonFabrics]

Always a 90/14 Stretch needle.

[@portialanden6353]

I love the Shannon fabrics from the videos I watch. My problem is when I go to your site and look at fabrics, I never, ever can see the prices....that frustrates me to the core!!!

[@ShannonFabrics]

That's because we sell only to wholesale customers. Many have MSRP listed so you can see what most stores will charge for them. You can some of the stores that carry our fabrics on our website, as well.

[@lbischoff7]

Thank you for your video’s they have been so helpful! I’m just getting back into sewing haven’t done It since high school. I personally like sewing the self binding blanket best. But i am in the process of making my niece a blanket that will be like this. My problem is I would like to have a wider binding on it I think wider binding looks better. I just took some scraps and was trying to do that but it did not go the greatest. Do you have to have a certain size of binding?

[@ShannonFabrics]

You are so welcome! I cut my binding at 1 3/4" but you can do a wider one if you like. The stitches will show on the back, but that's okay. :) -teresa

[@jerilynnsaint-onge557]

Thanks for the binding video. I am a newbie when it comes to sewing with Minky. I Just bought the Baby Cuddle Blanket. My question is, if I have 3 layers (front, batting and back) Is it necessary to quilt the blanket to hold the batting in place? If quilting is necessary and the pattern is quite open and airy ( little elephants) What would you suggest. Thank you.

[@ShannonFabrics]

If you want to use batting, you will need to quilt it according to the package instructions. If you'd rather not quilt it, I'd recommend using flannel instead of batting. It does not need to be quilted, but will add some heft to your quilt.

[@jerilynnsaint-onge557]

@@ShannonFabrics I'm just now starting on this blanket (feeling intimidated) I watched one of your tutorials where you used a thin polyester batting. Is quilting still necessary? What application would you suggest using Ultra thin polyester batting. Thank you again

[@debracole3595]

Will the cuddle continue to shed since you are not turning the raw edge under on the front side after sewn? How can I stop the shedding? I want to make a gift for a grandchild but I dont want it shedding. Thank you

[@ShannonFabrics]

Debra, if you put it in the dryer with a damp cloth and let it tumble around, most of the Cuddle dust will come off. It will not continue to lose fibers (shed), but it can take a wash before all the tiny cut fibers have come loose.

[@debbieshea8323]

What type of thread should I use with a cotton (double gauze) top and cuddle back? I'm using self binding. In the past I have used cotton threading for machine quilting. Should I use polyester instead?

[@ShannonFabrics]

Yes, we recommend a polyester thread for its strength! --teresa

[@sharonhowland6523]

Awe shucks. I missed out on the $2500 Sewing items drawing. This would have made my year. I had a liver transplant 18mos ago and I am so ready to be back in my sewing room working. I need so many new items before I begin to "learn" to sew again.

[@donnaring639]

When you start the second half of the corner do you start at Sewing at the edge of the fabric or a half an inch in

[@ShannonFabrics]

I start just a little in and backstitch a little. --teresa

[@krismorris1810]

Do you use wadding with a cotton Patchwork top and cuddle backing?

[@hellosweetheart3350]

I'm having a hard time sewing a 2" edge on my blankets without it twisting a bit (luxe cuddle back & print front)

[@ShannonFabrics]

I like to hold down either side of where I'll be sewing in order to avoid the twist. I use Jumbo Wonder Clips along the edge and a row of pins about 4" in from the edge (if I'm doing a 3" border).

[@dcwatashi]

Use Glad Press N Seal

[@annkeck1273]

Cincinnati ohio. Its Sunday 7:30pm

[@sharonnewbry5611]

Chenille is difficult to find! Weave too, colors limited!

[@TheQuilter1952]

How do you piece two pieces of cuddle to make larger backing without thick seam?

[@ShannonFabrics]

You just piece them and leave the thick seam. I've done it on many quilts. I just make sure to open the seam before it gets quilted. --teresa

[@lindasoltys5947]

How are you seeing the long binding. Straight across or the angle

[@ShannonFabrics]

I piece the binding together with a 45-degree angle seam to reduce bulk. --teresa

[@user-yn3yg1vo7i]

You said you used luxe frost and it had a peach colored back. I would like to buy this and was wondering the exact color? I see a rosewater and carnation that it could be?

[@ShannonFabrics]

It is Luxe Cuddle Frost Blossom. It's such a great binding! --teresa

[@susananthon6470]

How do I change the pressure on the walking foot with Babylock Crescendo? Would I need to do so on the much thicker or fluffier fabric?

[@ShannonFabrics]

I have not adjusted the pressure for my Crescendo, but you can do so in the settings. Scroll through to find "Dual Feed Adjustment" or check your manual for more detailed info. -teresa

[@definitelyjulia]

That is a super cool ruler. I'm new to sewing. Can you tell me what brand it is? Thanks!

[@ShannonFabrics]

Yes, it is! It's called the Perfect Piecing Seam Guide and can be found at quilt shops and online. -teresa

[@janetmckinney2487]

how can you put back the pumps on the Minky fabric

[@krystleroy3068]

❤

[@almacollum6429]

Good morning. I would like to know if you have small samples of All your fabrics that can be either purchased or your company would supply to your customers ?

[@ShannonFabrics]

No, sorry, we do not.

[@kathyhartman6687]

It is your needle centered to the left

[@ShannonFabrics]

The needle is in the center position for me. --teresa

[@marlenesmiley4353]

How do you quilt the larger blankets to hold them in place?

[@ShannonFabrics]

You do not need to quilt the larger blankets at all. You can quilt prior to binding, if you like, but it isn't necessary unless you use batting. --teresa

[@karenvanraden9912]

So you didn’t fold the edge of the Cuddle over to create a finished edge on the front? You just leave it raw?

[@ShannonFabrics]

Yep, you just leave the raw edge and stitch it in place. Because it is a knit fabric it will not fray. --teresa

[@loritaylor8177]

When are you going to do the next video on the Penguin Play Mat? I can't wait to finish it.

[@KEarllongJr]

When making baby blanket with the cuddle kit do I still quilt the quilt?

[@ShannonFabrics]

You need to quilt it if you use batting; the quilting will hold the batting together through the wash. If you choose not to use batting, there's no need to quilt it. -teresa

[@lizbrennan847]

Hi I was wondering if you could use a quilting foot, never done a cuddle blanket but looks fantastic

[@ShannonFabrics]

Yes! It's really fabulous and you can absolutely your quilting foot. --teresa

[@deniseaumiller3738]

Am enjoying learning all the tips and comparisons in this video! What is the big bar light over your work area? Is it LED, and do you know if it is it still available?

[@ShannonFabrics]

Yes, it is! It is from Daylight Company and we use a few of their lights--they are excellent! -teresa

[@deniseaumiller3738]

@@ShannonFabrics thank you! I have a couple of their lights and love them. This one, from the glimpse I caught of it, seems bigger and higher. Might work well over my taller Koala cabinet. 🤞

[@karendennis05]

Hi there! Great videos! What sewing machines do you use when sewing with minky? I have a brother cs6000i, but I am unable to adjust the foot pressure, so when using the walking foot, the material gets pressed too hard. Looking for other machines to use! Thank you!

[@ShannonFabrics]

I sew with a Baby Lock Crescendo most of the time and love the digital dual feed that it has for sewing with minky. -teresa

[@janetmckinney2487]

I ironed a small area of a minky Blanket by mistake is there any way to get the pumps back in ?

[@ShannonFabrics]

Yes the bumps will come right back when you wash it.

[@janetmckinney2487]

@@ShannonFabrics thank you so so much ❤️

[@annekk57]

Love the quilts you're making!! I sew apparel. - no quilts - but I'm wanting to put a simple backing on a piece of Cuddle (no filling) to make a throw. Can you suggest what I should use for a backing? And would I just tack it together throughout? Thank you!!

[@ShannonFabrics]

Thanks--I really recommend just using Cuddle on both sides. You won't even have to tack it together anywhere. When you use Cuddle on both sides, it will drape beautifully. -teresa

[@cristalescutia6]

What is the glue u used? And the kind of inner lining ?

[@ShannonFabrics]

I use ODIF 505 spray and polyester batting from Quilters Dream. --teresa

[@donnasample7216]

If you use cotton binding what are the instructions

[@ShannonFabrics]

If you use a cotton binding, you can do that however you like. There are several different methods. You can see how I do a cotton binding in this video for a different project: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l4jWXnZ3fq52pJYsi=jCHIhM5rrtKLt_Zm. --teresa

[@donnasample7216]

I meant what if you use a cotton binding for a quilt that was cotton on the top and kinky on the back. It’s the combination of cotton and milky that I have the question

[@donnasample7216]

Sorry. It’s minky on the back of quilt

[@almacollum6429]

Can you please give info on your fabric vacuum. I would like to check it out

[@ShannonFabrics]

It is a Black & Decker and available online and in many large retail stores. Just make sure to get a vacuum that blows out the back and not the sides. -teresa

[@pammathias4517]

How do you size material

[@reallifelove]

Thanks for a very helpful tutorial! Would a 90/14 ballpoint needle do as well as a stretch needle? Also - any idea what I can do in these cases if my machine does not have a presser foot pressure gage or screw? Or is there nothing I can do to help the situation but stitch slowly?

[@ShannonFabrics]

A ballpoint needle is similar to a stretch needle and can be used with Cuddle. If your machine does not allow you to change the presser foot pressure, my best suggestion would be to sew slowly and use a stiletto (such as the one from ByAnnie.com) and help to feed it under the walking foot as you go. -teresa

[@reallifelove]

@@ShannonFabrics Thanks!! Very helpful

[@Sooperb666]

How can you enter the big contest?

[@Sooperb666]

Found it!

[@sewawearofdajew5897]

Where is it? Do you have a link? I can't find it

[@sewawearofdajew5897]

Forget it. Found it on the blog. Thought they would be giving away a sewing machine as well.

[@debraries7931]

Why can't we buy this cuddle material with out have ing a business.

[@ShannonFabrics]

You absolutely can buy this fabric through one of our resellers. As the manufacturer, we do not sell directly to the public, but you can find shops across the country that sell our fabrics here: www.shannonfabrics.com/index.php?main_page=store_locator and online shops here: www.shannonfabrics.com/index.php?main_page=retailers

[@mchevalier-seawell4438]

Iv found it on Amazon in the past

[@dcwatashi]

Why use clips when Wonder Tape is better and Been around for years. Also you might want to watch other creative problem solvers. It’s really quite sad that you’re promoting these products and yet you’re not using the latest innovations. Found some other video where she’s using the glad press and seal she doesn’t have any of those issues that you had in this video. You are the brand ambassador and you should know more than average quilter/seamstress

[@ShannonFabrics]

Thanks for the comment! I've use the Wonder Tape on many projects and find that with Cuddle binding, it is more frustrating for me to try to get the tape to stick to the back of the knit fabric than it is to use the clips. I'll be using the new basting tape from ByAnnie in next week's episode. It's narrower and may prove to be easier, at least for the Cuddle 3. The Press and Seal works well for topstitching on the self-binding blankets, but I've found that 1/2" binding too small for it to really hold on to and I personally don't like picking the plastic bits out of my stitches. I prefer the Wonder Clips and they have worked well for the studentss I teach in quilt shops. I'd love to hear your experience working with the Press and Seal for small binding, as well as other tools. I try as many new products and techniques as I can. This video was created a few years ago, so there will be a few new additions to the episode about binding that we are doing on March 21, 2023. Thank you again for your feedback! --teresa

[@dcwatashi]

@@ShannonFabrics i’ve never had any issue using the 1/4 inch wonder tape on those types of fabrics Here is the video of a lady using the press n seal on Minky fabrics (not for binding just sewing two layers together) I am just gathering knowledge because my next-door neighbor often wants me to make her a throw for her grandchildren when they are in the car and she’s always asking for a cotton binding on a Minky type of fabric and it just twists it does not look good

[@dcwatashi]

Gee, maybe should’ve checked your blade before recording the video. And can’t believe you’re cutting with that X-Acto knife on your cutting mat you should be using a self healing mat

[@ShannonFabrics]

We use the OLFA SAC-1 blade for the Luxe Cuddle, which works very well and does not damage any of the cutting mats, as they are all self-healing mats. Thanks again for the feedback! --teresa

[@susanhinton3141]

How wide is that binding? Did I miss it?

[@ShannonFabrics]

It is 1 3/4" wide and the length is about 60" (WOF). -teresa