Zig Zaging edges
 

Ok now I am confused, I have just read on a site that gives great information on making pot holders (quilted), but it says that before you put the binding on any edge whether it be a quilt or pot holder, you should always zig zag the raw edge of the said quilt or pot holder. I have never done this before, what do other quilters think, is it necessary.

Idle Di

My 'piecing' machine doesn't have a zig zag stitch, and I don't keep my Brother (that does have one) set up all the time...so my answer is...no...I not only don't do that, I think it is unnecessary. Might make it a bit easier to make a beautiful binding, but it's not for me.....

I’m a zig zagger. It keeps the edges flat and holds them together when adding the binding. Also prevents fraying.

It may be someone’s rule but it’s not a have to do rule.

I have zig zagged around edges or even stay-stitched. It does help with a nice finish on the binding.

You can always try the technique and see if you like the results. Then decide.


PS: I stay-stitch all border and quilt edges just for me and no one else.

Had not previously heard of this, but have heard of using a serger before binding.

I use my serger for raw (cut) edges before prewashing. It works beautifully for that!

I quilt on a long arm and baste down the sides as I go, so don't zigzag--but could see how it would help if you didn't baste the sides on a project.

I stay stitch around pieced tops to keep seams on the edges from pulling apart when quilting. Usually a straight stitch but small items ( potholders, placemats) I do zigzag

Personal preference, IMO.

Thank you everyone, I have in the past tacked by hand the edges before putting on binding, then remove the tacking later one, I will try with zig zaging and see what I thing.

Idle Di