Master the Bias: How to Make and Use Bias Tape 🧵✨
If you’ve ever admired the clean edges on a quilt or a perfectly finished hem, chances are, bias tape was the secret ingredient. Bias tape is a versatile and magical sewing tool that can level up your projects. Whether you're binding seams, adding decorative touches, or finishing raw edges, this strip of fabric is here to save the day. Let’s dive into the world of bias tape—how to make it, use it, and maybe even fall in love with it! 😍
What Is Bias Tape?
Bias tape is a strip of fabric cut on the bias (at a 45-degree angle to the fabric's grain). This special cut gives it extra stretch and flexibility, making it ideal for curves, corners, and clean edges. It comes in two varieties:
Single-Fold Bias Tape: A strip folded inward on both edges. Shop on Amazon
Double-Fold Bias Tape: Single-fold tape folded in half again, making it even narrower and thicker. Shop on Amazon
How to Make Bias Tape
Making your own bias tape is easier than you think! Here’s what you’ll need:
Fabric of your choice
Rotary cutter and mat
Bias tape maker (optional but super helpful!)
Iron
Steps:
Cutting the Strips: Start by cutting fabric strips on the bias. Measure and mark a 45-degree angle to the grainline of your fabric and cut strips to your desired width. For single-fold tape, cut strips twice the width of your finished tape. For double-fold, multiply by four.
Joining Strips: If you need a longer tape, join strips by placing them at right angles, sewing diagonally, and trimming the excess. Press seams open.
Folding the Edges: Use a bias tape maker to fold the edges inward, or fold them manually with an iron.
Double-Fold Option: To make double-fold tape, fold the single-fold tape in half lengthwise and press again.
How to Use Bias Tape
Bias tape is as versatile as it is fabulous. Here are a few common uses and how to tackle them:
1. Binding Edges
Use bias tape to bind raw edges on quilts, placemats, or apparel. Double-fold tape is perfect for this!
Open one side of the tape and align it with the raw edge of your fabric.
Sew along the fold, then fold the tape over the edge and topstitch in place.
2. Facing Necklines and Armholes
Bias tape can create a clean, professional finish on necklines and armholes.
Use single-fold tape for this technique. Attach it similarly to edge binding but press the tape to the inside of the garment for an invisible finish.
3. Decorative Touches
Who said bias tape can’t be pretty? Use contrasting fabric for bias tape to add flair to your projects. Add it as trim or create fun patterns like stripes or checks.
Pro Tips for Bias Tape Success
Fabric Matters: Choose lightweight fabrics like cotton for easy folding and pressing.
Experiment with Widths: Test different widths to find what works best for your project.
Press as You Go: A hot iron is your best friend for crisp, even folds.
Stock Up or DIY: While store-bought bias tape is convenient, DIY lets you match it perfectly to your project.
Bias Tape Sewing Class
How to make bias tape on Creativebug.
Shop Sewing Supplies
Bias Tape Makers Shop on Amazon
Rotary Cutters & Mats Shop Joann
Fabric Bundles Shop Joann
Final Thoughts
Bias tape might seem intimidating at first, but once you master the art, it’s like having a superpower in your sewing toolkit. So grab your fabric, cut those strips, and start binding! Your projects will look polished and professional in no time.