Binding quilts with ease using the Husqvarna VIKING Jade 20

I love the stitch quality on the Husqvarna VIKING  Jade 20. The applique and piecing stitches are amazing. I can’t wait to try binding a table runner to see what happens with the thick layers. Let’s check it out.

I didn’t have time to quilt something this week, so I grabbed a table runner I made years ago. I had gotten it quilted a while back, but the binding was not attached yet. Testing various options on the Jade 20 was the perfect opportunity to get the binding on.

TIP When I make a quilted item, I always make the binding and the backing before storing it in the “to be quilted” pile. You may accidentally use the matching fabric for something other than its intended purpose. Plus, starting the binding process is easier if the binding is ready. No excuses!

Depending on the quilting style, some edges of the project are loose. In this case, you can see the three individual layers at the corner, which act like three independent pieces of fabric. If I were to put the binding on this, there’s a good chance I’d get some tucks or puckering along the way.

I’ll use the Edging Foot J, which is part of the accessories for the Jade 20. I used Utility Stitch Number 4 (Three-Step Zigzag) to overcast the edges, as the user’s guide recommended. Remember, there is loads of helpful information in that User’s Guide. A finger on the edging foot helps form and keep the stitch flat, especially when overcasting cotton fabrics. Because I have the bulk of the batting, the stitches remained flat. The Edging Foot J was beneficial to keep a consistent stitch placement around the edge of the table runner.

See how the right edge of the stitch overlaps the edge of the fabric on the right, and the finger helps keep everything lined up. It’s a super-easy presser foot to use. I love using it for overcasting edges, especially when dealing with a quilted project’s loose edges.

And here’s the edge of the table runner with the Three-Step Zigzag. It’s fast and works very well. I don’t get too technical when turning a corner, as the stitching will be inside the binding.

I like using the optional Interchangeable Dual-Feed Foot when sewing the binding. I appreciate the extra feed teeth on the top of my project, located on the bottom of the Interchangeable Dual-Feed Foot, to ensure a smooth application. If the binding is too loose, the edges will ripple. If they are too tight, the edges will pull in.

The Interchangeable Dual Feed Foot with two stitch plates and two quilting/edge guides (right and left) is in the box. The plates easily snap onto the bottom of the presser foot.

You can purchase three additional stitch plates, two with guides and one without, so depending on the stitch type and your preference, you’ll have access to a foot that works for you.

I selected one of the stitch plates in the kit and attached the Interchangeable Dual Feed Foot to the Jade 20. It’s super easy to attach. Take note at the top; the U-shaped lever is around the screw that holds the needle in place. If that lever is not around the screw, the dual-feed foot will not work. Be sure to check the instructions included in the box.

There’s one part of the function panel that we haven’t discussed yet, and it’s just above the needle. Here, you’ll find the speed control, START/STOP, and the reverse button. I’ll use the reverse button to anchor the ends of the seams when attaching the binding to the back of the table runner.

For more detailed information on applying a binding, refer to my ‘Binding a Quilt’ post.

I tested the seam allowance to ensure it was correct for the width of the binding strips, and I was ready to sew.

A reminder: when you turn the corners, pull the binding strip back so the folded edge is flush with the top. If not, you’ll have excess fabric in the corner, and you will not get a 90-degree corner.

Once you get the binding stitched to the back of the table runner, it’s time to sew (applique) the binding to the front. There are many ways of doing this and numerous stitches that you can use. I decided to try something a bit different. I found a variegated blue thread and used it on the top and bobbin, as I would stitch entirely on the binding on both sides. Usually, I make the top side of the binding slightly larger than the back so the bobbin stitches appear on the backing.

And remember to use the Safety Stiletto on the corners. Your fingers will not fit under the presser foot, so fold up the mitered corner a couple of inches before you get to the corner and hold it in place with the stiletto.

This method means that instead of bringing the binding slightly beyond the top stitching line, I brought it just to the stitch line on the top. I quickly did the calculation in my head. I’m stitching through EIGHT layers of fabric and the batting. Would the Jade 20 be able to stitch through all those layers? Again, the stitch quality was outstanding! I left the stitch length at the default setting of 2.5, but I could have increased it to 3.0. Not a single skipped stitch! I was thrilled with the results.

And here’s what it looks like on the back. I think I did very well on my first try at this technique.

I’m not sure I’ll be a fan of this technique, as I feel some of the stitching (that initial first line of stitching) shows more than I would like. I also found it slower, but that could be because it was the first time.

And here’s the finished table runner with the Jade 20, which performed beautifully with everything I put under the needle.

Here’s a picture of the entire table runner. Wow, it turned out amazing. Can you see how flat it lies? No rippling, no pulling in. It’s beautiful! It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you have the right tools.

I enjoyed playing with the Husqvarna VIKING  Jade 20 this week. I was so impressed by the quality of the stitch, regardless of which stitch type I tried.

The Husqvarna VIKING  Jade 20 would make a great second machine. Or for a new sewist or someone with limited space, it would be amazing. Remember back to Day One when we talked about the sleek design for the storage unit and how this does NOT look like a sewing machine sitting on a shelf? It would be the perfect machine for lots of people. But don’t just take my word for it – go to your nearest Husqvarna VIKING  dealer and check it out for yourself!

Have a great day!

Ciao!!!

This is part 5 of 5 in this series

Go back to part 4: 2 beautiful applique techniques with the Husqvarna VIKING Jade 20