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

Sewing can be a relaxing and fulfilling hobby, but mastering certain techniques can sometimes be a challenge. One of those techniques is sewing bias tape together. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced tailor, learning how to sew bias tape together can elevate the look and functionality of your projects. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to expertly sew bias tape together, providing you with all the tips and tricks you need to know. So grab your sewing kit and let’s get started on perfecting your sewing skills!

Bias Tape: A Useful Sewing Technique

Bias tape is a versatile sewing supply that is used to create a clean and professional finish for various projects. It is a thin strip of fabric that has been cut on the bias, or at a 45-degree angle, which gives it stretch and flexibility. Bias tape can be used for finishing raw edges, creating decorative trim, binding quilts, and more. Learning how to sew bias tape together is an essential skill for any seamstress or tailor.

The Benefits of Using Bias Tape

One of the main benefits of using bias tape is its ability to conform to curves and edges smoothly. As it has been cut on the bias, it has more stretch than fabric cut on the straight grain and can easily be manipulated around curves without puckering or wrinkling. This makes it ideal for finishing armholes, necklines, and curved hems.

Another advantage of using bias tape is its neat and professional finish. By enclosing the raw edges of a seam or hem with bias tape, you create a clean edge that will not fray over time. This also adds stability to the fabric and can prevent stretching on curved seams.

Bias tape also comes in a variety of widths, colors, and materials, making it suitable for many different projects. You can choose from single-fold or double-fold bias tape as well as cotton, satin, silk, or even polyester bias tapes depending on your project’s needs.

Preparing Fabric Strips

Before you can sew bias tape together, you need to prepare fabric strips from your chosen material. To do this:

1. Choose your fabric – You can use leftover fabric from your project or purchase pre-made bias tape in stores.

2. Cut strips on the bias – To cut fabric strips on the bias, lay your material flat with one corner pointing towards you. Measure out strips using a ruler and rotary cutter or scissors, making sure they are at a 45-degree angle to the selvage edge.

3. Join the strips – If your project requires a longer strip than your fabric allows, you can join multiple strips together. To do this, place two strips right sides together at a 90-degree angle, with one strip slightly overlapping the other. Sew them together with a ¼ inch seam allowance and trim excess fabric.

4. Press seams open – After joining strips, press the seam open to reduce bulk and create an even surface.

Sewing Bias Tape Together

Sewing bias tape together is a straightforward process that involves several different steps depending on your project’s needs. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to sew bias tape together.

1. Prepare bias tape – If using store-bought bias tape, you can skip this step. Otherwise, if you have made your own bias tape, press it in half lengthwise with wrong sides facing to create double-fold tape.

2. Open one end of the bias tape and place it on the right side of your fabric edge (called the raw edge). The wrong side of the bias tape should be facing up while its folded edge should be slightly over the raw edge’s outer edge.

3. Pin or clip – To ensure that your tape stays in place while sewing, pin or clip it in several places along the raw edge.

4. Sew in place – Using a ¼ inch seam allowance, sew along the crease line of your bias tape. Make sure to backstitch at both ends for added stability.

5. Stop sewing – When you reach the corner or desired stopping point (e.g., end of hem), stop sewing about ½ inch before reaching it.

6. Fold and continue – Lift your needle and presser foot, then fold the remaining bias tape over so that it overlaps the starting edge. The folded edge of the bias tape should be lined up with the outer edge of your raw fabric edge. Lower your needle and continue sewing, making sure to remove any pins or clips in the way.

7. Sew corners – When approaching a corner, stop sewing about ½ inch before reaching it and cut any excess bias tape. Then, fold the remaining tape towards the wrong side at a 45-degree angle and pin in place. Continue sewing along the new raw edge.

8. Finish – When you have sewn all around your project, stop about 2 inches from where you started and overlap both ends of the bias tape by folding one end inside the other. Sew this last section carefully to ensure a neat finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While sewing bias tape together may seem like a simple task, there are some mistakes that beginners tend to make. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

– Not cutting on the bias – Cutting on the wrong grain can result in puckering or warping when sewing around curves.

– Not joining strips correctly – If joining bias strips together, make sure they are at a right angle with one strip slightly overlapping the other before sewing.

– Stretching while sewing – Be

What is Bias Tape?

Bias tape, also known as bias binding, is a strip of fabric cut on the bias (a 45-degree angle from the straight grain) used to finish raw edges of fabric. It can be made from various types of fabric, such as cotton, satin, or even velvet. Bias tape has many uses in sewing projects, including binding edges, making facings, and creating decorative details.

Why Use Bias Tape?

There are several advantages to using bias tape in sewing projects. First and foremost, it gives a clean and professional finish to the edges of garments or other fabric items. It prevents fraying and adds durability to the finished piece. Additionally, bias tape allows for flexibility when sewing curves or angled edges as it stretches easily along the bias grain. This makes it ideal for finishing necklines, armholes, and curved hems.

Types of Bias Tape

There are two main types of bias tapes: single-fold and double-fold. Single-fold bias tape is a flat strip of fabric folded in half lengthwise with the raw edges tucked inside. It is typically used for finishing straight edges and is available pre-made or can be made by cutting strips of fabric on the bias. Double-fold bias tape consists of two folds along the length of the strip, enclosing both raw edges inside. It is commonly used for binding curved or angled edges.

There are also different widths available for both single-fold and double-fold bias tapes depending on your project’s needs. The most common widths are 1/4 inch, 1/2 inch, and 1 inch.

How To Sew Bias Tape Together

Sewing two pieces of bias tape together may seem intimidating at first but with a few simple steps, it can be easily accomplished.

Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric
First, determine how much bias tape you will need for your project and cut two pieces that are a bit longer than the required length. Lay both pieces of bias tape on a flat surface, right sides facing each other, and overlapping about 1/4 inch.

Step 2: Sew the Two Pieces Together
Sew along the overlapped area using a straight stitch. You can also use a zigzag stitch if desired. Be sure to sew close to the edge of the bias tape, about 1/8 inch from the raw edges.

Step 3: Trim and Press
Trim the excess fabric from the seam allowance and press open the seam to create a neat finish.

Step 4: Fold and Press Again
Fold the now joined bias tape in half lengthwise with wrong sides facing each other. Press again to create a crease along the centerline.

Step 5: Sew in Place
The joined bias tape is now ready to be attached to your project. With right sides together, line up the raw edges of your fabric piece with the center crease of the bias tape. Sew along the edge of your project, using the pre-pressed crease as a guide for keeping your stitches straight.

Step 6: Fold Over and Sew Again
Once you have sewn all around your project, fold over the bias tape along its natural crease line and press again. Then fold over once more so that it neatly covers all raw edges. Pin in place and sew close to folded edge to secure it in place.

Congratulations, you have successfully sewn two pieces of bias tape together!

Tips for Using Bias Tape

– When working with single-fold bias tape, make sure to use a pressing cloth when ironing as it can leave shiny marks on some fabrics.
– If making your own bias tape, consider using a rotary cutter for precise cutting on the diagonal grain.
– For a neat and professional finish, use an invisible hand-sewing stitch to secure the bias tape’s final fold.
– Experiment with different widths and colors of bias tape to add unique details to your projects.

Sewing can be a fulfilling hobby, and learning how to sew bias tape together adds another skill to your repertoire. With the right technique and practice, you can achieve clean and professional finishes on all of your sewing projects. Whether you are binding edges, creating decorative details, or adding durability to your garments, bias tape is a versatile tool that every sewing enthusiast should have in their arsenal. So go ahead and give it a try – you may just discover a new favorite sewing technique!

Q: What is bias tape and what is its purpose?
A: Bias tape is a strip of fabric that is folded and sewn to finish or bind the edges of cloth. It is used to create a clean, durable edge on fabrics that are prone to fraying.

Q: Do I have to cut my own bias tape or can I purchase pre-made bias tape?
A: You can purchase pre-made bias tape in various widths and colors, but you can also cut your own from any fabric with a degree of stretch.

Q: How do I join two pieces of bias tape together?
A: First, open one end of the second piece of bias tape and lay it flat against one end of the first piece, overlapping by about 1/4 inch. Then, sew the two pieces together using a straight stitch, making sure to backstitch at the beginning and end for added strength.

Q: Can I use a serger machine to join bias tape together?
A: Yes, you can use a serger machine to join two pieces of bias tape together by placing the first piece under the presser foot and then pulling the second piece under as you stitch.

Q: How do I attach bias tape without creating puckers or wrinkles?
A: To avoid puckers or wrinkles when attaching bias tape, make sure to gently stretch and guide the fabric underneath as you sew. You can also try using an adjustable binding foot for more control.

Q: Is there an alternative method for joining two pieces of bias tape without sewing?
A: Yes, there is an alternative method called “cheating” or “overlapping” where you simply lay one edge of the second piece on top of the first and topstitch it in place. However, this method may not be as secure as sewing the two pieces together.

In conclusion, learning how to sew bias tape together is an essential skill for any sewing enthusiast. It allows for clean and professional finishing of garments, as well as the ability to add decorative touches to projects. A thorough understanding of the proper techniques and tools necessary for joining bias tape is crucial in achieving the desired results.

Firstly, it is important to select the right type of bias tape and ensure that it is cut correctly and accurately. This will prevent any issues with stretching or bunching during the sewing process. Proper preparation and pinning techniques are also crucial in achieving a smooth and neat finish.

Secondly, there are various methods for joining bias tape together, including the mitered corner method and the overlapping method. Mastering these techniques will not only improve the overall appearance of a project but also save time and effort in the long run.

Furthermore, understanding how to manipulate bias tape around curves or corners is essential in creating a clean and professional finish on garments such as collars and cuffs. This requires practice and patience but will result in beautifully crafted pieces.

Finally, when sewing bias tape onto a garment, precision and attention to detail are key. Taking the time to properly align and sew along the edges will make all the difference in achieving a flawless end result.

Overall,

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.