Bias tape is a versatile tool in sewing, used for finishing edges, creating piping, and adding decorative accents to garments and crafts. While you can purchase bias tape from the store, making your own allows for customization in fabric choice, color, and width. In this guide, we'll walk through the steps to create professional-grade bias tape using your home sewing machine.
What You Will Need
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
- Fabric : Choose a fabric that complements your project. Cotton works well for most applications.
- Cutting Mat and Rotary Cutter : These tools will help you cut accurate bias strips.
- Ruler : A clear ruler will assist in measuring your strips.
- Iron : A good-quality iron is essential for pressing your bias tape.
- Basting Tape (Optional) : This can be helpful in holding the folds in place while sewing.
- Sewing Machine : A standard sewing machine with a straight stitch capability.
Step 1: Understanding Bias
Bias refers to the diagonal grain of the fabric, which has more stretch than the straight grain. When cutting bias strips, you create a flexible and curved edge that can easily conform to the shape of your project.
Cutting Bias Strips
- Prepare Your Fabric : Start with a square or rectangular piece of fabric. Ensure that it is pre-washed and pressed.
- Find the Bias : Fold one corner of the fabric diagonally so that the selvage edges align, creating a triangle. The fold line is your bias.
- Cut the Strips : Using your rotary cutter and ruler, measure and cut strips across the bias. Common widths for bias tape are 1 inch, 1.5 inches, or 2 inches, depending on your project needs.
Step 2: Joining Bias Strips
If you need longer lengths of bias tape, you will have to join several strips together:
- Align the Strips : Place two bias strips right sides together at a 90-degree angle.
- Sew the Seam : Sew a diagonal seam from corner to corner, then trim the excess fabric, leaving a quarter-inch seam allowance.
- Press the Seam : Open the seam and press it flat. Repeat this process until you have the desired length of bias tape.
Step 3: Folding the Bias Tape
Now that you have your bias strips cut and joined, it's time to fold them into bias tape:
- Press the Strips : Start by pressing each strip in half lengthwise with the wrong side facing out. This will create a center crease.
- Open the Strip : Unfold the strip back to its original position.
- Fold the Edges : Fold each long edge towards the center crease. Press these folds in place. You should now have a strip that is one-quarter of the original width.
Step 4: Sewing the Bias Tape
To finish your bias tape, you'll need to sew along the open edge:
- Set Up Your Machine : Attach a straight stitch foot to your sewing machine and set the stitch length to a medium setting.
- Sew the Tape : Starting at one end of the bias tape, sew along the open edge, ensuring that you catch both folded edges. This secures the folds and creates a neat finish.
- Trim and Press : Trim any excess threads and give the completed bias tape a final press with the iron.
Step 5: Using Your Bias Tape
Your professional-grade bias tape is now ready to be used! Here are a few ways to incorporate it into your projects:
- Finishing Edges : Use bias tape to finish armholes, necklines, and hems, providing a clean and polished look.
- Creating Piping : Fold bias tape around cording to create custom piping for cushions or bags.
- Decorative Elements : Add bias tape as a decorative touch on quilts, bags, or garments.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Fabric : For best results, use cotton or cotton blends for bias tape, as they press well and provide durability.
- Cut Accurately : Precision in cutting will ensure that your bias tape lies flat and looks professional.
- Experiment with Widths : Different projects may call for different widths of bias tape. Feel free to experiment based on your design needs.
Conclusion
Creating your own bias tape not only enhances your sewing skills but also provides endless opportunities for customization in your projects. With just a few simple tools and techniques, you can produce professional-grade bias tape that elevates your sewing creations. So, gather your materials and start experimenting with colors and patterns to bring your sewing projects to life!