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How to Sew Carpet Binding

Master the Art of Sewing Carpet Binding with These Easy Steps

Sewing carpet binding is a great way to give your carpet a finished look and prevent fraying. It’s a simple process that can be done at home with a few basic tools and some patience. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to sew carpet binding.

Step 1: Measure the Carpet
Measure the length and width of the carpet you want to bind. Add 6 inches to each measurement to account for the binding overlap.

Step 2: Cut the Binding
Cut the binding to the length and width of the carpet. You can use a rotary cutter or scissors to do this. Make sure the binding is wide enough to cover the carpet edge and overlap by at least 1/4 inch.

Step 3: Prepare the Carpet Edge
Trim any frayed or uneven edges from the carpet. Use a straight edge to create a clean edge for the binding to attach to.

Step 4: Pin the Binding to the Carpet
Starting at one corner of the carpet, pin the binding to the edge of the carpet. Make sure the binding is centered over the carpet edge and the raw edge of the binding is facing up.

Step 5: Sew the Binding to the Carpet
Using a sewing machine, sew the binding to the carpet. Use a straight stitch and sew along the edge of the binding, making sure to catch both sides of the binding in the stitch.

Step 6: Miter the Corners
When you reach a corner, stop sewing and fold the binding up at a 45-degree angle. Fold the binding back down over the next side of the carpet, creating a mitered corner. Pin the binding in place and continue sewing.

Step 7: Finish the Binding
When you reach the end of the binding, fold the raw edge under and overlap it with the beginning of the binding. Sew the two ends together, making sure to catch both sides of the binding in the stitch.

Step 8: Trim the Excess Binding
Trim any excess binding from the edge of the carpet. Use a rotary cutter or scissors to do this.

Step 9: Press the Binding
Use a hot iron to press the binding flat. This will help it lay smoothly and give your carpet a finished look.

Congratulations, you have successfully sewn carpet binding! With a little practice, you can create a professional-looking finish for all of your carpets.