How To Make Bias Tape
- WAWAK Sewing Supplies
- Aug 15
- 4 min read
Updated: Aug 18
Finishing an edge or seam with bias tape is an excellent way to add a clean, professional-looking touch to any sewing project. And while pre-made bias tape is convenient, sometimes you want your binding to match your fabrics perfectly. That's when it's time to DIY! Learn to make your own bias tape out of almost any woven fabric using a simple tool designed for exactly this purpose: a bias tape maker. Read on to learn everything you need to know about making bias tape with this handy tool, and print or download our free instructions at the bottom of this post for easy reference. Need some supplies before you get started? Head to WAWAK to find the sewing notions you need to make bias tape and more.
WHAT YOU NEED:
Woven Fabric
HOW TO USE A BIAS TAPE MAKER
Bias tape is a versatile sewing notion consisting of a bias-cut strip of fabric with folded edges (that's also folded in half, in the case of double fold bias tape). Though it can be made without one, the easiest method for making bias tape is with a bias tape maker. This simple tool folds your fabric strip as you feed it through the tape maker, making it much easier to maintain a consistent width across the length of your bias tape. Let's take a closer look at how to use a bias tape maker step-by-step:
1. Cut Fabric Strips On The Bias
Start by cutting strips of fabric on the bias. Nearly any woven fabric can be used, but using the same material as the rest of your project (or one that's similar in weight) is generally a good option. To cut on the bias, fold your fabric to 45 degrees and then fold again. Square up your triangle by trimming away any excess material, then cut off the folded edge. Cut your strips to the width needed: the width of your strips should be 2x the desired width of your single fold bias tape or 4x the width of your double fold bias tape. If desired, you can sew your fabric strips end-to-end to create a longer continuous strip of bias tape.
2. Feed Fabric Through The Tape Maker
Feed the fabric through the wider end of the bias tape maker until it pops out the narrow end. If you have difficulty feeding the fabric through, you can use a sharp object, like a sewing pin, to help poke it through.
3. Pin Fabric In Place
Pin the fabric strip to your ironing board to keep it in place once you begin pressing. Be sure the fabric tape is aligned correctly, so that the "seam" where the two fabric edges meet is in the middle of the tape, facing upward.
4. Press The Bias Tape
Press the fabric with an iron as you pull it through the bias tape maker.
5. Press Again
When you are done, it is a good idea to flip your new bias tape over and give it another press from the back side. To use as double fold bias tape, fold the tape in half lengthwise and press it again, with the seam on the inside.
And with that, your bias tape is complete! Whether you're using it to bind a quilt, create piping, or add a decorative trim or facing to a garment, your custom bias tape is ready to use. Wherever your creative drive takes you next, find high-quality sewing supplies at everyday prices at WAWAK.
HOW TO MAKE BIAS TAPE FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Make Bias Tape From Ribbon?
Yes, you can make bias tape from ribbon. However, keep in mind that many ribbons are not bias-cut. If the ribbon is not cut on the bias, it could still be used to create a binding tape, but it will not have the same flexibility as bias-cut fabric and may not perform as well on curved seams or edges.
What Size Bias Tape Maker Do I Need?
When selecting a bias tape maker, keep in mind that the bias tape maker's size refers to the width of the single fold bias tape it will produce. For single fold bias tape, select a bias tape maker that is the same size as your desired finished tape. For double fold bias tape, choose a tool that's double the width of your desired tape size.
How Do You Make Bias Tape Without A Tool?
To make bias tape without a bias tape maker, cut your fabric into bias strips as instructed above. Fold the fabric strips in half (with the wrong side of the fabric inside) and press. Re-open the tape. Fold the outer edges of the tape to the center crease and press. For double fold bias tape, fold in half once more and press again.
Save this handy guide for visual instructions on how to use a bias tape maker.
