A friend asked me to show her photos of quilts she could buy. I sent a dozen from my phone, including one that had been especially challenging. The price reflected as much. I noticed that many of the images were taken before they were finished. Apparently I get excited after quilting, and snap before adding the binding, which results in raggedy edges.
As much as I love my quilts, I love them even more after the last thread is cut. The ribbon of color that encircles the border and blocks strikes me as beautiful. While some women pick a shade that blends in, my preference is to choose contrast.
There is a functional purpose for bindings as well. Without them the fabric would fray in the first wash, and snag itself on the bed frame. A smooth binding makes it clear where the quilt ends.
Boundaries in marriage and other relationships can bring clarity too. It takes effort not to speak for our spouse or children in a way that impinges on their freedom.
"She doesn't know what she wants."
"You don't really think that."
"You must be angry."
It takes effort to avoid fuzzy lines. Perhaps the permeable edges between work and school and home life that we find ourselves in are not helping. Keeping clean boundaries has a cost. But it's worth it.
