Different Methods of Binding Carpet

What Is Binding?

• Binding is a narrow fabric, usually made of cotton or synthetic material, that is attached to all four sides of a carpet remnant to give it a finished look, in addition to ensuring that the foundation threads stay intact. The method selected depends on the type of carpeting as well as the desired appearance. Binding borders can be the same color as the carpeting or can vary in color, texture and appearance to create a distinctive look.

Binding Machines

• Binding machines are typically used by professionals as they are complicated to operate and can be costly. These machines utilize an automatic feeder to create a perfect, clean edge on the carpet and are most often used on thick, heavy rugs. Heavy-duty, foot-controlled sewing machines can sometimes accomplish this task by stitching into place tape folded over the edge of the carpeting. Machine attachments allow binding tape to fold neatly over the carpeting edges. Serge machines are sometimes used to sew inside corners and achieve effects not possible with standard binding machines.

Hand-Sewing

• Used for carpeting that is softer in quality, sewing bindings by hand is a time-consuming process. Tapes and borders used for this method are also softer. Binding the corners is especially time-consuming. Criss-cross stiches sewn with large needles are used to secure binding tape to the back of the carpeting.

Instant Binding Tape

• One of the simplest methods to bind carpeting is with instant binding tape. A variety of manufacturers, including Sailrite, make acrylic binding tapes that are applied to the carpet’s flange and may be used indoors or outdoors as they resist ultraviolet rays and mildew. No stitching is required with this method. Binding tape kits are available that contain special glue sticks and sticky tape for application. Areas that may have already frayed near the edges can simply be cut away with scissors before the tape is applied.

Glue

• Similar to binding tape, commercially-manufactured carpeting glue, such as Instabind, can be applied to the edge of carpeting with a hot glue gun. Carpeting glue works with rope, twill or fabric binding and is available in a variety of colors.