sew (machine) on binding straight

[feetfirst]

hi folks -- this is such a basic machine sewing question, but I am having a time with it this afternoon! I am sewing on the binding of my quilt, and I am guiding the quilt sandwich (right term??) from the front of the machine through the regular presser foot, and the back of quilt keeps going to the left. I have to keep lifting the needle out and moving the back of the quilt over to get it lined up straight again. The quilt is fully supported with nothing hanging over the edge of a table. Am I supposed to guide the sandwich from behind the sewing needle as well as from in front? This is my second quilt (both 4 feet by 5 feet, and tied quilts) and I didn't have this trouble last time. What's going wrong, oh wise ones?! Carol

[Patrice]

Re: sew (machine) on binding straight

you should try a walking foot if you have one. It will feed it through much easier

[Darlene]

Re: sew (machine) on binding straight

I sometimes have to guide a narrow piece like binding from the back and front too. I have a lot of trouble with quilts moving to the left.

[SummerK]

Re: sew (machine) on binding straight

I second the advice of using a walking foot...it feeds so much better. If you don't have one, I have a little trick that helps me when mine is pulling to the left, which is a lot. I place my left fingers on the quilt up against the presser foot and walk them along with the feet. What happens is my fingers become a barrier that my quilt can't go past and can't twist on me.

Hope that makes sense. It works for me, but I'm sure some of the seasoned veterans will have more (and probably better) advice.

[jrchapman]

Re: sew (machine) on binding straight

I always had problems with my binding going wonky until I used my walking foot. Although your quilt is supported on the table, the weight pulling down off the machine will be enough to move it out of alignment.

I think the walking foot helps because it keeps pressure on the fabric for more of the stitch. It might also help to get an extension table if you don't already have one.

[feetfirst]

Re: sew (machine) on binding straight

Everyone has been so helpful -- I think there may be a new walking foot in my future! Thanks for the help. I really am enjoying getting to know folks here! Carol