Mastering the Art of Seamlessly Sewing Bias Tape Strips Together: A Step-by-Step Guide

Sewing bias tape strips together may seem like a daunting task, but once mastered it can elevate the look and durability of your sewing projects. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced seamstress, knowing how to sew bias tape strips together is a skill that will come in handy for a variety of sewing projects. Not only does it create a smooth and polished finish, but it also adds strength and stability to hems, edges, and seams. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of sewing bias tape strips together, so you can confidently tackle any project with ease. So let’s grab our sewing machines and bias tapes and get started!

Understanding Bias Tape Strips

Bias tape strips are an essential element in clothing construction and other sewing projects. Bias refers to the diagonal direction of fabric, which runs at a 45-degree angle to the selvage or straight grain. When cut on the bias, fabric becomes more stretchy compared to when it is cut parallel or perpendicular to the selvage. This quality makes bias tape strips perfect for binding edges neatly and creating curved or rounded designs.

Bias tapes come in various widths, ranging from ¼ inch to 4 inches, and can be made from different types of fabric such as cotton, silk, nylon, or even polyester. The most common type of bias tape is double-fold bias tape, which has both edges folded towards the center. Single-fold bias tape has just one side folded, while continuous bias tape is made from one large strip of fabric that is folded multiple times to create a continuous piece of tape.

Understanding how to use and sew bias tape strips together will allow you to elevate your sewing projects and create neat and professional finishes.

Preparing Your Materials

Before you begin sewing your bias tape strips together, you will need to gather all the necessary materials. These include your fabric of choice for making the bias tape strips, thread that matches or complements your fabric, scissors or rotary cutter, ruler, pins or clips, iron and ironing board. It’s crucial to choose a high-quality fabric for your bias tapes as they will be subjected to pulling and stretching when bound on curved edges.

You can either make your own bias tapes by cutting diagonal strips from a larger piece of fabric or purchase pre-made ones in various colors and sizes. If making your own continuous bias tape, it’s best to use lightweight woven fabrics that do not fray easily such as quilting cotton.

Ensure that your sewing machine is in good working condition with a sharp needle suitable for your fabric. It’s also a good idea to make a test strip with scrap fabric and practice sewing it together before working on your project.

Attaching Bias Tape Strips

When you have all your materials ready, you can start attaching the bias tape strips to the edges of your project. Bias tapes are commonly used to finish necklines, armholes, hemlines, or any other curved or angled edges.

Firstly, you will need to determine how much bias tape is needed for your project by pinning or clipping the tape along the edge and cutting off any excess. It’s better to have slightly more bias tape than needed than too little.

Next, open up one of the folds on the double-fold strip and place it right side down onto the right side of your project, aligning the raw edges. Pin or clip in place along the entire edge at regular intervals. If using single-fold tape, simply place it on the raw edge with one fold facing up and one facing down.

When you reach a corner or curve on your fabric, snip into the bias tape at a 45-degree angle to allow it to bend smoothly around the corner without creating bulk.

Sewing Bias Tape Strips Together

Once everything is pinned or clipped in place, sew along the crease closest to the edge of your fabric with a straight stitch. You can also choose to use a zigzag stitch or decorative stitch for added flair. Ensure that you catch both sides of the bias tape as you sew.

As you approach a corner or curve, gently ease out any excess bias tape while sewing so that it lays flat without puckering or folding. When you reach where you began sewing, overlap and cut off any excess from both ends of the bias tape.

To join two pieces of continuous bias tape together when making your own strips, place them perpendicular to each other with right sides facing and sew a diagonal seam from one end to the other. Trim the seam allowance and press open.

If you need a continuous strip of bias tape, fold the entire strip in half with wrong sides together and press. Then, bring both raw ends together and sew with a quarter-inch seam allowance. Press the seam open and trim any excess fabric.

Finishing Touches

After sewing all your bias tape strips together, give your project a final press to ensure that all edges are flat and even. You can also topstitch along the edge of the bias tape for added strength and stability.

Once you have mastered sewing bias tape strips together, you can experiment with different widths, fabrics, and techniques to create unique finishes for your sewing projects. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to make mistakes along the way.

Conclusion

Now that you have learned how to sew bias tape strips together, you can confidently add this skill to your sewing repertoire. Whether you are an expert or just starting in the world of sewing, mastering this technique will allow you to achieve professional-looking finishes on any project. Remember to choose high-quality materials, practice with scrap fabric first, and have fun incorporating bias tapes into

What Is Bias Tape?

Bias tape is a narrow strip of fabric that has been cut on the bias, or diagonally, from the grain of the fabric. This allows the tape to have some stretch and flexibility, making it great for finishing raw edges or adding decorative details to clothing and home décor items. Bias tape can be purchased in various widths and colors, or it can be made at home from any desired fabric. Learning how to sew bias tape strips together is a useful skill for any sewer looking to add a polished and professional finish to their projects.

Supplies Needed:

Before we get started, make sure you have all the necessary supplies for sewing bias tape strips together. You will need:

– Bias tape (purchased or homemade)
– Straight pins
– Sewing machine
– Matching thread
– Scissors or rotary cutter and mat
– Iron and ironing board

Step 1: Cutting Your Strips

Firstly, you need to determine how much bias tape you will need for your project. Measure the length of the edge you want to bind or decorate with the bias tape. Multiply this measurement by 2. For example, if your edge is 20 inches long, you will need at least 40 inches of bias tape.

Using your chosen fabric, mark out a rectangle that is twice as long as your desired length and at least two times wider than your desired width of bias tape. For example, if you want your finished bias tape to be 1 inch wide, cut a rectangle that is 2 inches wide.

Next, lay your fabric flat on your cutting surface with one corner pointing towards you. Fold down one top corner of the rectangle towards the bottom corner on the opposite side to create a triangle shape. Cut along this diagonal fold line through both layers of fabric.

Unfold your fabric to reveal a parallelogram shape. This is your bias tape strip, which can now be cut into smaller pieces as needed for your project.

Step 2: Joining the Strips

To create one continuous strip of bias tape, you will need to join the individual strips together. Take two bias tape strips and lay them right sides together at a 90-degree angle, forming an L shape. Pin in place.

Sew along the diagonal edge using a ¼ inch seam allowance. Trim off the excess fabric and press the seam open.

Repeat this process for all remaining strips until you have one long continuous strip of bias tape.

Step 3: Folding and Ironing

Lay your continuous strip of bias tape on your ironing board with the wrong side facing up. Fold one edge towards the center and press with your iron. Then, fold the other edge towards the center so that it slightly overlaps with the first fold. Press again with your iron to secure.

Repeat this process for both long edges of your bias tape strip until they meet in the center, creating a double-folded strip.

Step 4: Stitching

Next, unfold one end of your folded bias tape strip and lay it flat on top of your raw edge, right sides together. Pin in place to keep it secure while sewing.

Using a ¼ inch seam allowance, stitch along the crease closest to the raw edge until you reach the corner of your project or where you want to stop binding or decorating.

Stop stitching approximately ½ inch before reaching the end. Then, fold over the opposite end at a 45-degree angle and continue stitching on top.

To finish off, fold over another ½ inch at this end and stitch across it to create a clean finished edge.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Lastly, press your bias tape to set the stitches and give your project a professional and polished look. If desired, you can also topstitch along the folded edge of the bias tape for added stability and a decorative touch.

You can now use your newly sewn bias tape strip to finish off your sewing project with a beautiful and neat edge.

Troubleshooting Tips

Remember to always start with enough length of bias tape strips. It is better to have too much than not enough, as you can easily trim off any excess.

Be careful when joining the strips together to ensure they are aligned correctly for a neat seam. Take the time to press each fold with your iron for more precise results.

If sewing on a curve or creating mitered corners, make small snips at the raw edge before folding over the bias tape to help it lay flat. Use slow stitching for better control and accuracy.

Learning how to sew bias tape strips together opens up endless possibilities for adding a professional finish to all sorts of sewing projects. With just some fabric, basic sewing supplies, and this step-by-step guide, you can easily create your own custom bias tape and join it together seamlessly. So next

Q: How do I properly cut bias tape strips for sewing?
A: To cut bias tape strips, start by creating a fabric square with edges parallel to the selvage. Then, use a quilting ruler and rotary cutter to cut strips at a 45-degree angle.

Q: Can I use a sewing machine to attach bias tape strips together?
A: Yes, using a sewing machine is the most efficient way to attach bias tape strips together. Simply use a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch along the edge of the strips.

Q: Is it necessary to sew the ends of the bias tape before attaching them together?
A: Yes, it is important to sew the ends of the bias tape before attaching them together to create a clean finish. Be sure to sew at 45-degree angles on each end.

Q: What is the best technique for sewing bias tape strips together?
A: The best technique for sewing bias tape strips together is to first attach one end of the strip to your project, then lay out and align the second strip at a 90-degree angle. Sew along one side of the second strip and then fold over and secure on top of the first strip.

Q: How can I ensure my seams are invisible when using bias tape strips?
A: To make your seams invisible when using bias tape strips, try using an invisible thread or thread that closely matches your fabric. Also, be sure to align and overlap your strips accurately before sewing.

Q: Are there any special tips for sewing curved projects with bias tape?
A: Yes, when working with curves, lightly stretch out the edges of your curve as you pin and sew on your bias tape. This will help keep everything smooth as you attach and sew the binding.

In conclusion, learning how to sew bias tape strips together is an essential skill for any sewing enthusiast. It allows for a professional and polished finish to garments, quilts, and other sewing projects. With the proper tools and technique, this process can be easily mastered.

We began by discussing the various tools necessary for sewing bias tape together, including the tape itself, pins or clips, a sewing machine, and an iron. We also learned about the importance of selecting the right type and width of bias tape for your project.

Next, we delved into the step-by-step process of joining two strips of bias tape together using a diagonal seam or a straight seam. We also explored techniques for finishing the ends of bias tape and attaching it to fabric edges neatly. These included mitered corners, overlap method, and backstitching techniques.

Moreover, we discussed how combining multiple colors or patterns of bias tape can add an interesting touch to any project. We also learned about alternative methods of joining bias tape strips together such as using fusible webbing or fabric glue.

Throughout this guide, we have emphasized the importance of precision and attention to detail when sewing bias tape together. We have also provided tips on troubleshooting common issues that may arise during this process.

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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.

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