Sewing Edges I: Making Bias Tape

Bias tape is a great way to add a finishing touch, be creative, and finish a raw edge when sewing. It is also easy to make your own bias tape for a fraction of the cost of repeatedly buying it prepackaged. Please join me as I take you step by step through the process of making and attaching bias tape for your next project!

Making Bias Tape

There are two main types of bias tape makers: electronic & manual. In this tutorial I am using the manual Clover 1" bias tape maker. Click the images below to enlarge them.

1. First you need to prepare the fabric that you are going to make into bias tape. To get a nice straight bias, square up the end of your fabric. Then fold that end diagonally, lining it up, so it is flush with the selvage.	2. Then mark the fold line carefully. I recommend using a fabric pencil and ruler. Cut along the marked fold line.
3. Proceed marking and cutting strips along the diagonal (bias). Your maker will give instructions regarding how wide your strips should be. The 1" maker needed 1¾" wide strips.	4. Pin all of the strips together leaving a ¼" tail on each end; see arrows above. Sew together with a ¼" seam allowance.
5. Press the seams and trim the tails.	6. With the wrong side facing up insert the strip in the wide end of the maker. Pull through the narrow end and pin the strip to the ironing board. Slowly pull the maker along and press the folds close to it.

Next, check out my post on how to attach bias tape to your project!