Mastering the Art of Sewing: How to Perfectly Sew Bias Binding Around Corners

Sewing can be a fun and rewarding hobby, allowing you to create beautiful and unique pieces with your own two hands. However, mastering advanced techniques such as sewing bias binding around corners can seem intimidating for beginners. But fear not, with the right techniques and a bit of practice, you can easily add a professional touch to your projects. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of sewing bias binding around corners, helping you achieve flawless results every time. So get comfortable at your sewing station and let’s begin!

Understanding Bias Binding

Bias binding is a strip of fabric that is cut on the bias, or at a 45-degree angle to the lengthwise and crosswise grain of the fabric. This allows it to have more flexibility and stretch, making it ideal for covering curved edges such as corners. Bias binding can be made from any type of fabric, but lightweight fabrics such as cotton or silk are commonly used.

What You Will Need

Before learning how to sew bias binding around corners, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials. Here’s a list of things you’ll need:

– Fabric: As mentioned earlier, you can use any lightweight fabric for making bias binding. However, if you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with cotton as it is easier to work with.
– Ruler: A clear ruler with marked measurements will come in handy for cutting your strips of bias binding.
– Pins: Pins are essential for keeping your fabric in place while sewing.
– Scissors: You will need sharp scissors for cutting your fabric and trimming excess threads.
– Iron and ironing board: An iron will help you achieve crisp folds in your bias binding while an ironing board provides a flat surface for pressing.
– Sewing machine: While it is possible to sew bias binding by hand, using a sewing machine will save you time and effort.
– Bias tape maker tool (optional): This nifty tool helps in folding and pressing the fabric into bias tape quickly. It is not necessary but can make the process smoother.

Preparing Bias Binding

Before sewing your bias binding around corners, you need to prepare your strips of fabric first. Here’s how:

1. Measure and cut your fabric into strips on the bias according to the width that you need. The width depends on how wide you want your finished bias binding to be. A standard width is 2.5 to 3 inches.
2. Join the strips together by overlapping them at a 90-degree angle and stitching them diagonally from corner to corner. This will create one continuous strip of bias binding.
3. Press the seam open and trim any excess fabric.
4. Trim one end of the bias binding strip at a 45-degree angle. This will create a pointed end that makes it easier to feed through the bias tape maker tool (if using).
5. Run the strip through the tool while pressing with an iron to create a neatly folded bias tape.
6. If you’re not using a bias tape maker, fold each side of the strip towards the center, then fold again in half and press for a clean and even finish.

Attaching Bias Binding to Corners

Now that your bias binding is ready, it’s time to sew it around corners! Follow these steps for best results:

1. Open up your double-folded bias binding so that you have one raw edge along the length.
2. Starting from the bottom of one side of your corner, sandwich the raw edge of your fabric between both folds of your bias binding.
3. Pin in place and start sewing along the first fold that you made, making sure to catch both sides of your bias binding and the fabric within your stitching.
4. Once you reach the corner, stop sewing before you reach the edge by approximately ¼ inch.
5. Lift your presser foot and rotate your fabric 45 degrees while folding down both layers of bias binding against each other on top of your fabric.
6.Rotating back onto your main piece, align both folds again with each other and continue sewing along this new edge until you reach another corner or until you have sewn entirely around your corner depending on how many corners are in question
7.Repeat this process for each corner, always making sure to fold and align both layers of bias binding at each corner.
8. When you reach the starting point, overlap the ends of your binding by about an inch and trim any excess.
9. Sew them together to create a seamless finish.
10. Press your bias binding neatly in place all around the edge.

Tips for Sewing Bias Binding Around Corners

– Use plenty of pins to keep your bias binding in place while sewing around corners.
– When reaching corners, pivot your fabric with the needle down to ensure neat and even stitches.
– Avoid stretching or pulling the bias binding as this can cause puckering and uneven edges.
– If using striped or patterned fabric for your bias binding, make sure that the design runs parallel to the raw edge for a cleaner look.
– If using a thicker fabric for your bias binding, consider trimming away some of the bulk from within the seam allowance before turning it right side out.

Binding corners using bias tape may seem tricky at first, but with practice and following these steps, you will soon master this skill. Adding this technique to your sewing repertoire will allow you to create beautifully finished garments and home decor items. Remember to take your time and

1. Understanding Bias Binding and Its Uses

Bias binding is a versatile sewing technique that can add a professional and finished look to any garment or project. It is a strip of fabric that is cut on the bias, meaning it is diagonal to the lengthwise and crosswise grain of the fabric. This allows the binding to stretch and conform smoothly around curved edges, making it perfect for finishing raw edges like armholes, necklines, and most importantly, corners.

Its main purpose is to encase raw edges and add durability and structure to any seam or hem. Bias binding is commonly used in garment construction, quilting projects, home decor items such as pillowcases or table linens, as well as bag making. It comes in different widths, fabrics, and colors to match your project’s needs.

2. Choosing The Right Type of Bias Binding

Before starting your project, it’s crucial to select the correct type of bias binding that best suits your needs. There are two main types: single-fold and double-fold bias binding.

Single-fold bias binding is a strip of fabric folded in half lengthwise with both raw edges encased inside the fold. It’s great for lightweight fabrics or when you want a more delicate finish on your project.

Double-fold bias binding, also known as French fold or bifold tape, is a single-fold binding with both sides folded in towards the center crease. This creates a thicker strip with four layers of fabric perfect for heavier fabrics or when added durability is needed.

You can either purchase pre-made bias binding or make your own by cutting it from fabric on the bias using a bias tape maker tool.

3. Preparing Your Project for Bias Binding

Whether you’re adding bias binding around corners on a garment or home decor item, there are some essential steps to follow before sewing.

Firstly, it’s essential to finish any raw edges on your project, usually by serging or zigzag stitching them. If working on a garment, make sure to stay stitch the seam allowance around the neckline or armhole to prevent it from stretching out.

Next, mark the areas where you’ll be adding bias binding using tailor’s chalk or fabric pen. If you’re adding bias binding around corners, make sure to mark out the corners carefully.

Lastly, press your project to eliminate any wrinkles or folds. Ensure that the edges you’ll be binding are also pressed flat for a smooth and clean finish.

4. Applying Bias Binding Around Corners

Now that we’ve gone over the basics let’s dive into how to apply bias binding around corners.

Firstly, unfold your bias binding strip and align it with the raw edge of your project, right sides together. Start sewing at least ½ inch away from the fold and backstitch to secure.

When reaching a corner, stop sewing about ¼ inch before the edge and pivot your fabric 90 degrees. If using single-fold binding, fold it over towards the next edge and align it with the raw edge. For double-fold binding, continue sewing but make sure to catch both layers of fabric in every stitch.

Sew all around until you reach where you started, leaving an inch of excess bias binding hanging loose. Trim any excess and overlap with the starting end before folding both ends towards each other and sewing over them to create a clean finish.

When adding bias binding around a full circle like an armhole or neckline, sew until you’re ½ inch away from where you started. Overlap both ends as mentioned above before trimming any excess and finishing off neatly.

5. Tips for Neat Corners

Here are some extra tips for perfectly neat corners when using bias binding:

– When reaching a corner, stop sewing before reaching the edge and pivot just before the needle reaches the raw edge.
– If using double-fold binding, make sure to record where each layer of fabric starts and ends to avoid any gaps when sewing around corners.
– At each corner, snip into the seam allowance close to the needle point to eliminate bulk and allow for a smoother fold.
– Use an iron or fabric clips to secure your bias binding in place before sewing around corners for more precise results.

6. Troubleshooting Common Bias Binding Corner Problems

Here are some common problems you may encounter when working with bias binding around corners and how to fix them:

– Uneven or puckered corners can be caused by not pivoting accurately. Make sure to pivot before reaching the raw edge, and use an iron or fabric clips to secure your bias binding in place before sewing around corners.
– Gaps between your bias binding at a corner can happen if one layer of fabric is longer than the other. Make sure to record where each layer starts and ends when applying double-fold bias binding.
– If you accidentally sew over one end of your bias binding while applying it, simply unpick it and restart from that point.

Bias binding is an excellent

1. What is bias binding?
Bias binding is a long, thin strip of fabric that is used to encase and finish raw edges of a garment or project, typically around necklines, armholes, or cuffs. It is cut on the bias (diagonal) of the fabric to provide more stretch and flexibility for easier sewing.

2. How do I know how much bias binding I need?
To determine the amount of bias binding needed for your project, measure the total length of all the edges that require binding and add an extra 6-8 inches for overlapping and joining. If using pre-packaged bias tape, refer to the label for yardage information.

3. Can I create my own bias binding?
Yes, you can make your own bias binding by cutting strips of fabric on the diagonal with a width of approximately 1-2 inches and joining them together at their ends to create one continuous strip. However, this can be time-consuming and using pre-packaged bias tape can save time and effort.

4. How do I sew bias binding around corners?
Start by attaching one end of the bias tape to the beginning edge of your project with a few backstitches. As you approach a corner, stop sewing a few inches before reaching it. Fold the tape up at a 45-degree angle away from your project, then fold it back down in line with the next edge to be bound. Continue sewing down this edge until you reach another corner and repeat these steps until you reach your starting point.

5. How do I ensure clean corners when sewing with bias binding?
To achieve crisp corners when sewing with bias tape, fold over any excess fabric at each corner before folding up the next side of tape at a 45-degree angle. This will create a neat and professional look without any bulky or uneven edges.

6. What if my bias binding ends up puckering or overlapping when sewing around corners?
If your bias tape appears bunched up or overlapping at corners, you may need to adjust the tension on your sewing machine or hold the fabric taut as you sew. You can also try using a smaller stitch length to help keep the fabric in place. Practice on scrap fabric first before attempting this technique on your project.

In conclusion, bias binding is an essential skill to have for any sewing project, especially when it comes to sewing around corners. By following the proper techniques and tips, such as cutting and preparing bias strips, pinning and sewing carefully, and clipping corners, you can achieve a smooth and professional finish. Remember to always take your time and practice patience as you master this technique. With practice, you will be able to confidently incorporate bias binding around corners in your future sewing projects. The key takeaway is that with the right approach, bias binding around corners can elevate your sewing projects to a whole new level of craftsmanship and detail. Don’t shy away from trying this technique; instead, embrace it and enjoy the beautiful results it brings! With dedication and determination, you can become a pro at sewing bias binding around corners in no time. Happy sewing!

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.