Master the Art of Seamlessly Sewing Bias Binding Together: Tips and Tricks

AvatarByJill Nammar

Sewing is a timeless craft that allows us to express our creativity and bring our unique ideas to life. And one essential technique every seamstress should know is how to sew bias binding together. This versatile method not only adds a decorative touch to your projects but also serves as a functional finish for raw edges. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, mastering this skill will elevate your sewing game. In this article, we’ll delve into the tips and tricks of sewing bias binding together, so get ready to take your sewing skills to the next level!

What is Bias Binding?

Bias binding is a type of fabric trim that is used to finish off edges of clothing, accessories, and home decor items. It is typically made from strips of fabric that are cut on the bias, which means they are cut diagonally across the grain of the fabric. This allows the binding to have stretch and flexibility, making it perfect for finishing curved edges. Bias binding can be made from a variety of fabrics such as cotton, satin, or even leather. It is a versatile and practical way to add a finished look to your sewing projects.

Why Sew Bias Binding Together?

Sewing bias binding together is an important skill for any sewing enthusiast to have. While there are pre-made bias tapes available in many colors and patterns, sewing your own binding allows you complete control over the final look and ensures that it matches perfectly with your project. Additionally, joining bias binding together allows you to use it on projects with larger or longer edges without having seams interrupting the continuous flow of the trim. Overall, learning how to sew bias binding together gives you more options for finishing off your sewing projects in a professional manner.

Materials Needed for Sewing Bias Binding Together

To sew bias binding together, you will need some basic sewing materials which may include:

  • Fabric scissors
  • Sewing machine
  • Pins or clips
  • Ruler or measuring tape
  • Sewing thread
  • Bias tape maker (optional)
  • Sewing gauge (optional)

You will also need pre-made bias binding strips or you can make your own by cutting strips on the bias from a piece of fabric.

How To Sew Bias Binding Together: Step by Step Guide

  1. Prepare your strips: If you are making your own bias binding, start by cutting strips of fabric on the bias. The width of the strip will depend on how wide you want your final bias tape to be. A general rule of thumb is to cut a strip that is twice the desired width plus 1/4 inch for seam allowance. For example, if you want a 1-inch wide bias tape, cut a strip that is 2 1/4 inches wide.
  2. Joining the Strips: Once you have all your strips cut, it’s time to join them together. Place two strips at right angles to each other with right sides facing. Pin or clip them together along the diagonal edge.
  3. Sew the Strips Together: Using a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch, sew along the pinned edge with a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Trim any excess fabric and press the seam open or to one side.
  4. Trim and Press: Trim any excess threads and press the joined seam flat to ensure it lies smoothly when adding it to your project.
  5. Fold and Iron Bias Tape: If you are using a bias tape maker, follow the instructions provided with your tool to fold and iron your binding into place. If you do not have a bias tape maker, fold one long edge of your strip to meet in the center, then fold again in half lengthwise enclosing raw edges inside.
  6. Pinning/Clipping Bias Tape to Your Project: Once your bias tape is ready, open it up and align one long edge of it with an unbound edge of your project with right sides facing each other. Pin or clip in place taking care not to stretch out or distort either the project or the bias binding.
  7. Sewing the Bias Binding: Using a suitable sewing machine, sew along the crease of the folded edge of your bias binding from one end to another. Take care that you catch both edges as you go so that no raw edges show.
  8. Trim and Finish: Once you have sewn down your bias binding, trim any excess fabric and press it flat onto your project. If preferred, stitch again along the opposite folded edge or handstitch to completely encase raw edges.

Tips for Sewing Bias Binding Together

Here are some tips to keep in mind when sewing bias binding together:

  • Always cut your binding strips on the bias, as this will give it stretch and allow it to lay smoothly around curved edges.
  • When joining strips together, make sure to overlap them by at least 1/4 inch for seam allowance.
  • Take care not to stretch or distort your project or bias tape while sewing, as this can result in uneven or puckered edges.
  • If using a sewing machine foot to guide the edge of the tape, make sure it is positioned correctly before

    What is Bias Binding?

    Bias binding is a strip of fabric that is cut on a 45 degree angle from the fabric’s grain line. This results in a stretchy and pliable tape that is used to finish off raw edges of garments or other sewing projects. Bias binding can be either self-made or store-bought, and it comes in a variety of widths and colors. It is a versatile tool that can add a professional and polished look to any sewing project.

    Preparing Your Bias Binding

    Before you begin sewing your bias binding together, it is important to properly prepare it first. If you are making your own bias binding, start by cutting strips of fabric on the 45 degree angle. It is recommended to use a rotary cutter and ruler for precise and straight cuts. Once you have your strips, trim off the selvedge edges and press them in half lengthwise with right sides facing.

    If you are using store-bought bias binding, it may come folded in half lengthwise with wrong sides together. In this case, press the strip open before folding it back in half with right sides together. This will result in a neater finish when attaching the bias binding to your project.

    Sewing Your Bias Binding Together

    To neatly sew the ends of your bias binding together, lay one end over the other at a right angle with right sides facing. The two strips should overlap each other evenly by approximately 1/4 inch.

    Next, draw a diagonal line from one corner to the opposite corner using a water-soluble pen or tailor’s chalk. This will serve as your stitching guideline.

    Using your sewing machine or hand sewing needle, stitch along the marked line with a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Be sure to backstitch at both ends for added strength.

    After stitching, trim off any excess fabric beyond the stitching line. Then, press the seam open to create a smooth and flat finish.

    Joining Bias Binding Strips

    In some cases, you may need to join multiple strips of bias binding together to achieve the desired length for your project. To do this, lay one end of your first strip over the beginning of your second strip, overlapping them by 1/4 inch.

    Stitch along the overlapped edge with a 1/4 inch seam allowance and backstitch at both ends. Trim off any excess fabric and press the seam open. Continue adding strips in this manner until you have reached the desired length.

    Tips for a Professional Finish

    When sewing bias binding together, there are a few tips that can help you achieve a professional and seamless finish:

    – Use matching thread to blend in with the bias binding.
    – Take your time and make sure your strips are overlapping evenly to avoid any puckering or unevenness in your stitching.
    – Backstitch at both ends for added strength.
    – Trim off any excess fabric beyond the stitching line for a clean finish.
    – Press your seams open to create a flat surface.
    – Practice on scrap fabric before attempting to sew bias binding on your actual project.

    Knowing how to sew bias binding together is an essential skill for any seamstress or crafter. With proper preparation and sewing techniques, you can create professional-looking finishes on any sewing project using biased tape. Remember to take your time and practice as needed, and soon you’ll be able to flawlessly join bias binding strips together!

    1. What is bias binding and why is it used in sewing?
    Bias binding is a long, thin strip of fabric that is cut along the bias (diagonally across the grain) of the fabric. It is used to finish raw edges on garments or other sewing projects, providing a clean and professional look.

    2. How do I sew bias binding together?
    To sew bias binding together, first join the two ends of the strips you want to connect, right sides facing each other. Sew diagonally from one corner to the opposite corner using a 45-degree angle. Trim off any excess fabric, press open the seam, and continue attaching it to your project as desired.

    3. Can I use my regular sewing machine to attach bias binding?
    Yes, you can use your regular sewing machine to attach bias binding. However, if you have a special foot designed specifically for attaching bindings or a walking foot, these may make it easier for you.

    4. What is the best way to sew mitered corners with bias binding?
    When reaching a corner, stop stitching about ¼ inch away from the edge on your final edge. Then fold your bias tape back towards the edge at an angle creating a neat mitered corner. Finally, continue stitching along the next edge.

    5. How do I ensure that my bias tape lies flat when sewing it onto curved edges?
    One way to ensure that your bias tape lies flat when attaching it onto curved edges is by clipping into the raw edge of your project at equal intervals before pinning on the tape. This will allow flexibility and prevent any puckering or sweeping of the tape.

    6. Can I make my own custom-sized continuous bias binding without having to join several strips together?
    Yes, you can create continuous bias binding by making a diagonal fold in a square fabric and cutting along that fold, resulting in one long continuous strip. There are also many online calculators available that can help you determine how much fabric is needed for your desired length and width of binding.

    In conclusion, sewing bias binding can seem like a challenging task, but with the right techniques and knowledge, it can elevate the overall look and durability of any sewing project. From choosing the right type of bias binding to properly joining and attaching it to fabric, there are various steps and tips to consider. One should always measure accurately, take their time to sew neatly, and make the necessary adjustments as needed.

    Furthermore, this process requires patience and practice; it may take a few tries before achieving flawless results. However, with determination and practice, anyone can master the art of sewing bias binding together. Additionally, understanding the importance of proper seam allowances and using adequate tools such as an iron or seam guide can greatly enhance the outcome of the finished product.

    Apart from just being a functional technique in sewing projects, bias binding adds a professional touch to garments and accessories. It also allows for creative customization by using contrasting or complementary colors or patterns. It not only strengthens edges but also adds visual interest to a finished piece.

    Overall, learning how to sew bias binding together is a valuable skill that every sewer should acquire. By following these steps and utilizing the tips mentioned above, one can confidently create beautifully bound edges on any project. So go ahead and give it a try! With patience and practice

    Author Profile

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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.

    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.