How do I make bias tape? This question often comes up for sewists who are looking to add a professional touch to their projects. Bias tape is a versatile and decorative trim that can be used to finish edges, bind seams, and add a touch of elegance to any garment or home decor item. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, learning how to make your own bias tape can save you money and give you the freedom to choose the fabric and width that best suits your project.
Creating bias tape is a straightforward process that involves cutting strips of fabric on the bias, which is a diagonal angle across the grain. This allows the tape to stretch and conform to curves and angles, making it ideal for applications where a straight seam might not suffice. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own bias tape:
Materials Needed
– Fabric: Choose a fabric that complements your project. For a 1/4-inch wide bias tape, you’ll need about 1 yard of fabric.
– Scissors: A pair of sharp scissors for cutting your fabric strips.
– Ruler: A ruler to measure your fabric strips.
– Cutting mat: A cutting mat to protect your work surface.
– Iron: An iron to press your fabric strips and finished bias tape.
– Seam ripper: In case you need to make corrections.
Steps to Make Bias Tape
1. Cutting the Fabric Strips:
– Begin by cutting your fabric strips on the bias. To do this, fold your fabric in half diagonally so that the selvages meet. Measure and mark the desired width of your bias tape (common widths are 1/4, 1/2, or 3/4 inches) along the selvage edge.
– Cut along the marked line to create your strips.
2. Pressing the Strips:
– After cutting your strips, press them in half lengthwise with an iron. This will help to keep the strips together and make it easier to sew them together later.
3. Joining the Strips:
– Lay out your pressed strips in a row. Overlap the ends of adjacent strips by about 1/4 inch. Press the overlap flat.
– Sew the strips together along the overlap with a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Press the seam open.
4. Pressing the Final Tape:
– Once all the strips are joined, press the tape in half lengthwise to create the finished bias tape.
5. Using the Bias Tape:
– To apply the bias tape, you can sew it down by hand or machine. If using a machine, place the tape on the right side of the fabric with the raw edges aligned. Stitch close to the edge of the tape, using a zigzag or overlock stitch to allow for stretching.
By following these simple steps, you can create your own bias tape for any project. Not only will you save money by not purchasing pre-made bias tape, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that your project is truly one-of-a-kind. Happy sewing!
