I'm not bias, are you?
Okay, maybe I am a little. I really do prefer sewing to most of my other hobbies.
That is why today I want to share with you one of the most useful and easiest tricks in sewing. How to make bias tape.
This post contains affiliate links to products I recommend. I do make a portion off any you may purchase. See full disclosure here.
Yep, that's right. You can make your own bias tape.
No need to run to JoAnn Fabrics, Amazon or even Walmart anymore. You can sew up your own MATCHING bias tape for any project you do.
What is bias tape and why do I need it?
Bias tape is made from strips of fabric that are cut on the bias, or diagonal, to the selvage of the fabric. Bias tape is used to finish raw edges in projects, and for use in necklines.
What is the best fabric for making bias tape?
Bias tape is pretty versatile for use in projects, but the best bias tapes are made from lightweight fabrics. Cottons like cottons, batiste, silks, quilting cottons, and chambrays.
Just remember that some fabrics are easier to manipulate and hold their shape better than others.
Is it cheaper to make your own bias tape?
That depends on what fabric you are using. But in most instances yes. You only need about a 1/2 yard of fabric to make bias tape and you can match it to any pattern or material.
Can you make bias tape without a bias tape maker?
Yes!! Is it easier with a bias tape maker, for sure. But you don't have to have one to successfully make bias tape.
How much fabric do I need for bias tape?
You only need 1/2 yard to 1 yard of fabric to make bias tape. Of course, this also depends on how big of a project you need the tape for.
I hope that answered many of your questions. Really all you need is a bit of fabric and thread. I'll teach you how to make bias tape without a bias tape maker.
But I'll also show you how to make it with a tape maker.
Let's get sewing!!
How to Make Bias Tape
Materials Needed
- 1/2 yard of cotton fabric or more depending on how big your project is
- Thread
- Rotary Cutter
- Self Healing Mat
- Optional: Bias Tape Maker
You have the choice as to what size bias tape you make. I'll be making 2" double bias tape.
Fold one corner across and to the opposite corner to make a large triangle.
Next, take the top right corner and fold across to the opposite corner.
Trim fabric so it is a square.
Trim fabric so it is a square.
Now rotate your fabric so the fold on the diagonal piece can be trimmed.
Use a rotary cutter and cut the folded edge straight.
Measure each section 2.5” and cut straight.
Take your bias tape pieces and line them up so the slanted edges intersect. Stitch across. Repeat with each piece of bias tape.
Open bias tape and iron flat. Trim down seams.
At this point, you have two choices. You can either continue making your bias tape without any help OR you can finish with the help of a bias tape maker.
You can get these for inexpensive. I grabbed mine on Amazon.
I'll show you both.
How to make bias tape without a bias tape maker
Fold bias tape in half and press.
Open the bias tape and fold raw edges towards the middle. Press.
Your raw edges should now be enclosed. Press.
How to use a bias tape maker
If you have a bias tape maker, you'll simply insert the fabric into the maker. Making sure that the fabric is evenly distributed.
Once it comes out the end, use your iron to press the folded sides down.
YAY!! See how easy it is to make bias tape.
Now you can make bias tape that will match any project or use whatever fabric you already have on hand. No need to go to the store!
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