If you’re looking for a quick way to finish your quilt top without diving into the world of traditional hand quilting or setting up your sewing machine with a walking foot, then hand-tying a quilt might be the perfect method for you!
It’s one of the quickest ways to secure the layers of your quilt sandwich without much fuss.
Using materials like embroidery floss, wool yarn, or even perle cotton, you can tie the layers of the quilt together with a series of small simple knots that not only hold everything in place but can also add a fun, decorative touch to the finished project.
Let’s take a closer look at who this method is best for, how it works, and why it’s such a good idea for quilters of all levels.
Why Hand Tie a Quilt?
There are so many good reasons to hand tie a quilt! For starters, it’s probably the most beginner-friendly way to finish a quilt.
With just a few simple steps, like threading your needle (a needle threader comes in handy here), marking your tie points, and using a square knot or double knot to secure your ties, you can have your quilt top finished in no time.
This method is also one of the most effective ways to secure the layers of your quilt without having to do any heavy-duty stitching.
Another reason I love it? You can be really creative!
Whether you choose embroidery floss, pearl cotton, or yarn type like wool yarn, there are so many different ways to make your ties stand out.
You can place them at regular intervals, along a straight line, or even in the center of the quilt to highlight a specific design.
The added bonus? Hand-tying works beautifully with extra thick batting and high-loft quilts where machine quilting might not be a great option.
It’s the fast way to create a finished quilt that still feels personal and handmade. Plus, it’s the best thing to do when you need a quilt done quickly but still want that lovely, cozy finish.
Materials Needed:
- Needle
- Yarn or thread
- Scissors
How to Hand Tie A Quilt
This is the thread that I used. It was a sashiko thread and it worked great.
You could totally use DMC floss and use all 6 strands. That is about the same thickness as this.
Feel free to try other thicknesses though- and yarn as well.
I liked this thickness because it really was easy to use! It went through all the layers great and I didn’t have to pull hard or work the needle at all.
This is the needle that I used. It was a longer one and thick, but the eye was smaller.
It was a little tricky getting the thread to go in, but overall it was great.
Sandwich your quilt layers before you begin. When you are going to tie the quilt, you are taking the needle and thread through all three layers – the top, the batting and the backing.
I used my favorite spray – June Tailor quilt basting spray. This is how I use spray glue for quilting.
1 – Bunch up or fold the layers along the edge to the spot you are going to tie. If there is a lot of fabric and it’s larger than a baby quilt, then just place your hand under the quilt to where you are going to take your stitch.
2- Put your needle into the quilt
3- Take the needle and push it back to the top. Use your finger underneath the layers to guide it. You are going to take a small stitch. If you are getting too big of a stitch, then pull the needle back a little bit and try again. Just make sure the needle is going through all three layers
4- Pull the length of the thread- leaving a 2 inch or so tail
5- Take the tail to the back and cross the long thread with the needle at the top
6- hold the crossing point of the threads with your thumb and finger
7- Take the needle and go through the loop from back to front once
8- Take the needle and go through the loop from back to front for a second time
9- Pull the thread somewhat tight using both ends of the thread
10- Cross the threads again and hold with your thumb and finger
11- Again push the thread through the loop twice
12- Pull the thread very tight this time
13- Snip the ends to the size you want with scissors
This is what the top of the quilt looks liek
This is what the backside of the tied quilt looks like
How to Hand Tie a Quilt Video
Who is Hand-Tying a Quilt For?
Hand-tying is perfect for so many quilters, from new quilters looking for a good method to finish their first project to more experienced ones who want a quick way to finish larger quilts.
If you’ve ever felt intimidated by the thought of machine quilting or just don’t want to spend hours adding quilting stitches to your entire quilt, this could be the best choice for you.
It’s also a good way to finish quilts with extra thick batting or made from heavier natural fibers and synthetic fibers, where machine quilting or traditional hand quilting could be more difficult.
Plus, for those working on a smaller project or looking for a fresh take on their quilt’s design, hand-tying offers endless possibilities for experimenting with thread colours, tying material, and even unique ways to place your quilt ties.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. How far apart should quilt ties be placed? Typically, ties should be spaced 4-6 inches apart. However, depending on the type of batting you use, this can vary. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for the minimum distance apart to ensure you’re securing the quilt properly. Thicker batting may require ties at closer intervals to prevent shifting.
2. Can I wash a tied quilt? Yes! A tied quilt is totally washable, but I recommend tying a double knot or even a surgeon’s knot to make sure your ties stay secure through multiple washes. If you’re worried about fraying, a little fray check on each knot can go a long way.
3. What’s the best material to use for tying quilts? The best materials for quilt ties are sturdy options like embroidery floss, perle cotton, or wool yarn. You can also use heavier threads like embroidery thread, depending on your preference. Just make sure the material you choose complements your quilt’s overall feel and design. Natural fibers and cotton-based threads tend to hold up better in the wash, while synthetic fibers can sometimes fray more easily.
4. Can I hand-tie a quilt if I’ve already started machine quilting? Absolutely! You can combine machine quilting and hand-tying for a unique look. Add ties in areas where you want to give extra texture or a pop of color to your quilt top. It’s a fun way to play with different techniques on one quilt!
5. What type of needle should I use for hand-tying? You’ll want a large, sharp needle, like an embroidery or quilting needle, with a large enough eye to easily thread your yarn or embroidery floss through. If you’re struggling to thread the needle, a needle threader can be a lifesaver. And don’t forget, a rubber thumb tip or thimble might help push the needle through the layers without hurting your hands!
Additional Quilting Resources
- Make your own spray starch
- Quilting with a regular sewing machine
- Spinning Ribbons quilt pattern – free!
- Sewing scraps with Ticker Tape
Becky Jorgensen is the creative quilter behind Patchwork Posse, the Patchwork Planner and her online quilt group Patchworkers Plus. You can find her patterns in books, magazines, and her quilt membership. Gather your quilting supplies, organize your sewing space, explore the process of disappearing quilt blocks, or finish a free quilt pattern. I'll help you use what you have, finish what you start and make your quilting journey fun!
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