braided border

[CaroleJ]

I am putting a braided border on my jelly roll quilt and it looks SO NICE...sewing all the strips together is time-consuming, but I am really loving the look of the braid with the "Don't Fence Me In" design.

My question: the outer edges of the braided border are cut on the bias, so I know they are prone to stretching. Should I stay stitch them before I put on the binding? I had the thought that I could baste the edges once the quilt is layered and pinned, to prevent any stretching when the binding goes on.

What do y'all think?

[maggiestew]

I'm thinking a small border of coordinating fabric added to your top before adding the binding might help with those naughty bias edges. Maybe about an inch which shouldn't detract too much from the design on your quilt. The stay stitch would work too..but if you're going to have to sew it anyway you would only be out the extra of cutting 1 1/2" strips. Good Luck!

Hugs,
Maggie

[Joannequilts]

I have to agree with Maggie, I'd do a small border to stabilize the whole thing, too. Sounds really neat! Can you post a picture?? I'd love to see it!!

Joanne:0)

[CaroleJ]

Ohhhh nooooo, I don' wanna put on anudder border---whaaaah! But thanks for the ideas! I will probably do the stay-stitching and pin the ever lovin' heck out of it when I put on the binding strips.

I have been slogging through assembling the braids...probably should take a break from it today, it's beginning to feel tedious! It doesn't help that I am running low on pieces from the jelly roll, either, and trying not to panic. I'm putting on solid cornerstones to make sure I don't run out.

Borders on both long sides are done; on to the top and bottom edges!

[ctherrie]

I think the stay stitching would work as well as adding another border.

[CaroleJ]

All the braided borders and cornerstones are on, and the edges are stay-stitched. No time to get it layered, working all weekend. Just wanted to send in an update.

[towens71]

Carole - I did a braided quilt for a friend @ work and it turned out beautiful, I gave it to her before I got to take pictures!! I did have regular borders though. But I put the bias on the bottom in order to not stretch the bias edges. I would love to see your pictures!

It is a bit time consuming isn't it?

Traci

[CaroleJ]

Traci, yeah, I have done piano key borders, as well as the new braided one. While I love the look of the pieced borders.....arg! Time consuming is right! The word 'tedious' also comes to mind--LOL!

Soooo worth the time, though, when a lovely pieced border sets off the whole quilt. Gotta keep your eyes on the prize.