Mastering Bias Tape: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfectly Applying it on Your Quilt

Quilting is not just a hobby, it’s an art form that has been perfected over centuries. And for those who love quilting, the finishing touch to any project is often the binding. While there are countless methods for creating binding, bias tape has become a popular choice among quilters due to its flexibility and durability. If you’re new to quilting or looking to try a new technique, you may be wondering how to put bias tape on a quilt. Look no further, as we break down this process and provide tips for achieving perfect binding every time. Get ready to add a professional touch to your quilts with this simple guide on using bias tape.

Bias Tape: What is it and why is it used?

Bias tape, also known as bias binding, is a strip of fabric that has been cut on the bias of the fabric. This means that the strip is cut at a 45-degree angle from the straight grain of the fabric. Bias tape is commonly used on quilts to finish raw edges and add a decorative touch.

Using bias tape has several benefits. First, because it is cut on the bias, it has more stretch and flexibility than fabric cut on the straight grain. This allows for easier application around curved edges, such as those found on quilts. Additionally, using bias tape creates a clean and professional-looking finish with minimal effort. It can also add visual interest and contrast to your quilt design.

Bias tape typically comes in a variety of widths, colors, and materials. The width of the tape often depends on personal preference or the size of the raw edge you are finishing. For example, wider tapes may be used for thicker fabrics or larger seams, while narrower tapes may be better suited for thinner fabrics or smaller seams. The color and material can be chosen to coordinate with your quilt’s color scheme or add an interesting contrast.

The Different Types of Bias Tape

There are several different types of bias tape available, each with its own unique characteristics and uses.

Single-fold bias tape: Also known as single-fold binding, this type of bias tape has been folded once and has two finished edges. It is most commonly used to finish raw edges where both sides are visible, such as on a quilt’s outer edges.

Double-fold bias tape: Unlike single-fold bias tape, double-fold binding has been folded twice to create three finished edges – two on one side and one on the other. It is commonly used to encase both raw edges when sewing them together. Double-fold binding is often used when attaching binding to the back of a quilt, with the folded edge sewn to the front and the raw edge tucked under on the back.

Blanket binding: It is a wider bias tape that is often used on thicker projects like quilts or blankets. It comes in different widths and may have finished or unfinished edges. Blanket binding can be made from various materials such as cotton, satin, or fleece.

Continuous bias tape: This type of bias tape is made from one continuous strip of fabric folded into a long, narrow strip. It can be used for large projects that require a lot of bias tape and eliminates the need for piecing together shorter strips.

Ways to Attach Bias Tape

There are several methods for attaching bias tape to your quilt. The method you choose will depend on the type of bias tape you are using, as well as personal preference.

Sewing machine: Using a sewing machine is the most common and efficient way to attach bias tape. You can use either a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch to secure the tape in place. A straight stitch will produce a neater finish, while a zigzag stitch allows for more flexibility around curved edges.

Hand stitching: If you prefer a more traditional approach, you can hand sew bias tape onto your quilt. This method is more time-consuming but allows for greater control over the stitching process and provides an invisible finish if done correctly.

Iron-on adhesive: Another option for attaching bias tape is using iron-on adhesive, also known as fusible webbing. This method eliminates the need for sewing and creates a clean and seamless finish. However, it may not be suitable for thicker fabrics or projects that require durability.

Step by Step Guide: How To Put Bias Tape On A Quilt

Now that we have discussed what bias tape is, its different types, and how it can be attached, let’s walk through the steps for putting bias tape on a quilt.

Step 1: Prepare your quilt
Make sure your quilt is clean, pressed, and free of any loose threads. If necessary, trim any uneven edges to ensure a smooth finish.

Step 2: Choose your bias tape
Decide on the type, width, color, and material of your bias tape. For quilts with curved edges, it is recommended to use a double-fold bias tape for easier application.

Step 3: Cut the bias tape
Measure and cut the required length of bias tape for each edge of your quilt. Remember to account for any overlapping or seam allowances when cutting.

Step 4: Apply the first edge
Starting at one end of the quilt’s edge, open up one side of the bias tape and place it along the raw edge with the right side facing down. Aligning the raw edges, pin or clip in place.

Step 5: Sew in place
Using either a straight stitch or zigzag stitch, sew along the crease line on the front side of the bias tape. Be sure to catch both sides of the fabric underneath. Fold over and press down on both sides of the tape after stitching is complete.

Step 6: Attach second edge
Fold

Adding bias tape to a quilt can be intimidating for beginner quilters, but it is a great way to add a professional touch to your finished project. Bias tape, also known as binding, is a strip of fabric used to cover the raw edges of a quilt. It not only gives your quilt a polished look, but also helps to stabilize the edges and protect your seams from wear and tear. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through step-by-step on how to put bias tape on a quilt like a pro.

Understanding Bias Tape

Before we dive into the process of putting bias tape on a quilt, it’s important to understand what exactly bias tape is. Bias tape is made by cutting strips of fabric at a 45-degree angle (diagonally) across the grain of the fabric. This results in strips that have more stretch and flexibility compared to regular straight-cut strips. This quality makes bias tape perfect for covering curved edges of quilts.

Bias tapes are available in various widths, ranging from ½ inch to 3 inches. The most common width used in quilting is ⅜ inch or ½ inch. You can choose from solid colors, prints or even make your own using matching or contrasting fabrics.

Materials You Will Need

To put bias tape on your quilt, you will need the following materials:

– Bias Tape: As mentioned earlier, you can either buy pre-made bias tapes or make your own using fabric scraps.
– Quilt: It goes without saying that you will need a completed quilt top before you can add bias tape.
– Sewing Machine: A sewing machine with straight stitch capability will make the process faster and easier.
– Sewing Pins
– Fabric Scissors
– Iron and Ironing Board
– Thread: Choose a thread color that coordinates with your fabric or bias tape.
– Hand Sewing Needle: You will need this for finishing touches.

Preparing the Quilt for Bias Tape

Before you start sewing on the bias tape, it’s important to prepare your quilt first. Follow these steps to get your quilt ready for bias tape:

Step 1: Iron Your Quilt Top
Start by pressing your quilt top with an iron to remove any wrinkles or creases.

Step 2: Trim Excess Batting and Backing
If you have any excess batting or backing fabric hanging over the edges of your quilt top, trim it off using scissors. This will ensure that your edges are clean and even before adding the bias tape.

Step 3: Square Up Your Quilt
Using a rotary cutter and a quilting ruler, trim off the edges of your quilt to make sure all sides are perfectly straight.

Step 4: Sandwich All Three Layers Together
Place your trimmed quilt backing on a flat surface, right side down. Add a layer of batting on top of it, followed by your quilt top (right side up). Smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles on the surface.

Step 5: Secure All Layers with Quilting Pins
Using quilting pins, secure all three layers together by sticking them through all layers. Be mindful when pinning around corners and curves as they will need extra attention when adding bias tape.

Attaching Bias Tape Along Straight Edges

Now that you have prepared your quilt, it’s time to start attaching the bias tape. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Start at One Corner
Begin by unfolding one end of your bias tape and lining up its raw edge with one corner of your quilt. Leave about an inch of extra length at both ends for overlapping later.

Step 2: Pin in Place
Using quilting pins, pin the unfolded edge of your bias tape along the raw edge of your quilt. As you pin, make sure the bias tape overlaps the raw edge evenly.

Step 3: Sew Along the First Folded Edge
Using a straight stitch, sew along the first folded edge of your bias tape, removing pins as you go.

Step 4: Stop Before Reaching the Corner
When you get close to the corner, stop sewing at least 1 inch before reaching it. This will give you a better chance of making a clean folded corner.

Step 5: Fold Bias Tape to Create Mitered Corners
Fold your bias tape at a 45-degree angle away from your quilt, creating a mitered corner. Then fold it back towards your quilt, making sure it lines up with the next edge.

Step 6: Pin and Sew Along Next Edge
Pin in place and sew along this next edge until you reach the next corner. Repeat this process for all corners until you reach where you started.

Step 7: Overlap and Secure Ends
Take both ends of your bias tape and overlap them by at least an inch. Sew along this overlapping section to secure both ends together.

Attaching Bias Tape Along Curved Edges

Sewing bias tape along curved

1. What is bias tape and why is it used on quilts?
Bias tape, also known as bias binding, is a strip of fabric that has been cut diagonally across the grain of the fabric. It is used as a finishing edge to hide raw edges and add a clean and professional look to quilts.

2. How do I prepare my quilt for attaching bias tape?
First, trim the edges of your quilt to make sure they are straight and even. Then, sandwich the raw edges of your quilt between the double-folded bias tape and pin it in place.

3. How do I attach bias tape to my quilt?
Using a sewing machine or hand stitching, stitch along the fold of the top side of the bias tape, making sure to catch both layers of bias tape and the raw edge of the quilt as you sew.

4. How do I miter corners when applying bias tape?
To miter corners, fold one side of the bias tape diagonally so that it creates a triangle over the corner. Then fold down the remaining side over top and continue sewing along the edge.

5. Can I make my own bias tape for quilting?
Yes, you can make your own bias tape using a special tool called a bias tape maker or by cutting strips on the diagonal yourself. Just make sure that your strips are cut on true 45-degree angle for best results.

6. Are there any tips for creating smooth corner curves with my bias binding?
To create smooth corner curves with your bias binding, try using small clips or pins along curves rather than pulling or stretching the fabric into place as this could cause puckering or wrinkling in your finished product.

In conclusion, putting bias tape on a quilt may seem like a daunting task, but with the proper steps and techniques, it can be easily accomplished. Begin by selecting the appropriate bias tape and prepping it for application. Then carefully measure and pin the tape onto the quilt edges before sewing it into place. By following these steps, you can add a neat and polished finishing touch to your quilt.

It is important to note that practice and patience are key when working with bias tape. Take your time to ensure that the tape aligns properly and is securely attached. Additionally, experimenting with different methods of applying bias tape can help determine which works best for you.

Keeping in mind the various uses for bias tape – not only in quilting but also in other sewing projects – allows for versatility and creativity in its application. The options are endless – from adding contrast to a quilt or garment to creating intricate designs with multiple layers of bias tape.

Overall, mastering how to put bias tape on a quilt requires attention to detail and practice, but the end result is worth it. It not only adds a professional touch to your project but also expands your skills as a quilter or seamstress. So take the time to learn this valuable technique and incorporate it into your future projects for beautiful and functional

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.