Big Stitch Binding Supplies (Updated)
I’m always looking for small ways to improve my quilting process. Sometimes it’s a new tool, sometimes it’s just discovering that a slightly different version of something works better for me.
Over time I’ve made a few small changes to the tools I use for big stitch binding, and since this is one of the most common questions I get, I thought it would be helpful to share an updated list of my favorites.
Some of these are new additions and some are things I’ve been using for years. If you’re new here — or if you want to try big stitch binding on a quilt for the first time — this post should give you a good place to start.
If you’re looking for a full big stitch binding tutorial with videos, including exactly how I hand sew binding to a quilt, you can find that post right here.
Thread for Big Stitch Binding
DMC Size 8 Perle Cotton
My go-to thread for big stitch binding is DMC Size 8 Perle Cotton.
There are quite a few perle cotton options available, but DMC has consistently worked the best for me. It’s affordable, easy to find, and (in my experience) more durable than many alternatives.
Some brands are a little softer, but that softness often means the thread shreds more easily while sewing — which can be frustrating when you’re hand stitching around an entire quilt.
I almost always use white, off white, or light gray.
Favorite Rainbow Thread
I especially love using variegated rainbow perle cotton for binding because it adds a subtle pop of color to the quilt edge.
My favorite rainbow option has given me the best rainbow magic in my bindings so far.
If you have a favorite variegated rainbow thread, I would love to hear about it. I’m always looking for new ways to add a little extra color to my quilts.
Needles for Big Stitch Binding
My New Favorite: Richard Hemming Size 7 Long Darning Needles
My current favorite needle for big stitch binding is the Colonial Needles size 7 long darning needles.
It checks all the boxes:
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Long enough to comfortably rock stitch
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Flexible without bending too easily
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An eye that is wide enough for size 8 perle cotton
This combination makes stitching smoother and easier, especially when working through multiple layers of quilt fabric.
Other Needles I Like
If you can’t find the Colonial needles, these are also great options:
Both work well with perle cotton and make hand sewing binding easier.
Best Thimble
Clover Natural Fit Leather Thimble
My favorite thimble is the Clover Natural Fit Leather Thimble.
It’s comfortable, flexible, and provides just the right amount of protection while pushing the needle through quilt layers.
Because it’s leather, it will eventually wear out — after all, you are repeatedly pushing a needle into it. But they actually last quite a long time. I recently replaced one that lasted about four years, which feels pretty reasonable for something used regularly.
Clips
Clover Wonder Clips
I’ve been using Clover Wonder Clips for years, and they’re still my favorite way to hold binding in place while sewing.
They are:
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Lightweight
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Easy to open and close
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Gentle on quilt fabric
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Easy to reposition while stitching
Some of mine have lasted more than a decade. They do eventually break, but they’re inexpensive enough that replacing them isn’t a big deal.
Final Thoughts on Big Stitch Binding Tools
Big stitch binding is one of my favorite ways to finish a quilt. It’s relaxing, it highlights the handmade nature of quilting, and it adds a beautiful decorative detail to the quilt edge.
Using the right tools makes the process much more enjoyable. These are the tools that have worked best for me, but if you have favorites I didn’t mention, I’d love to hear about them.
And if you want to see exactly how I do big stitch binding, including step-by-step instructions and videos, be sure to check out my full tutorial post.