How to Sew Bias Tape on Fabric Edges

How to Sew Bias Tape on Fabric Edges

Bias tape is a strip of fabric used to cover raw fabric edges and create a neat finish. It is often used on necklines, armholes, aprons, table linens, pouches, children’s clothing, and decorative garment details.

Because bias tape is cut on the bias, it is more flexible than straight-cut fabric strips. This allows it to follow curves more smoothly.

However, the final result depends on how it is sewn. Pulling the tape too much can make the edge wavy, while skipping pressing can make the finish look uneven.

What Is Bias Tape Used For?

Bias tape covers raw edges so the fabric does not fray easily.

It can also be used as a decorative trim, especially when the color contrasts with the main fabric. Some bias binding is visible from the outside, while some is folded to the inside for a cleaner finish.

Preparation before Sewing

Before attaching bias tape, make sure the fabric edge is clean and evenly trimmed.

Prepare bias tape, pins or fabric clips, an iron, and matching thread. Press the bias tape first so the folds are easier to control.

If using double-fold bias tape, check the folded sides. In many ready-made bias tapes, one side is slightly wider. The wider side is usually placed underneath so it is easier to catch in the final stitching.

How to Sew Bias Tape

Open one fold of the bias tape and place it along the raw edge of the fabric. Match the raw edge of the tape with the raw edge of the fabric.

Pin or clip it in place so it does not shift.

Stitch along the fold line of the bias tape. Use a straight stitch and keep the seam even. Avoid pulling the tape or the fabric while sewing.

After the first stitching line is finished, fold the bias tape over the raw edge to the opposite side. Make sure the fabric edge is fully enclosed.

Press the fold, then stitch close to the edge of the bias tape from the right side. Make sure the back side of the tape is caught by the stitching.

For a cleaner finish, the back side can also be sewn by hand with a slip stitch.

Sewing Bias Tape on Curves

Curved areas such as necklines and armholes need extra care.

Do not stretch the bias tape too much. Let it follow the curve naturally. Use more pins or clips around tight curves so the tape stays in place.

Press the curve before the final stitching to help the tape sit smoothly.

Sewing Bias Tape on Corners

For corners on aprons, table linens, or quilts, fold the bias tape neatly at the corner.

Stop stitching slightly before the edge, fold the tape into a clean corner, turn the fabric, and continue sewing the next side.

If the corner feels bulky, trim a little of the inner fabric before closing the tape.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is not pressing the bias tape before sewing. This makes the folds harder to control.

Another mistake is pulling the tape too tightly, especially on curves. This can make the fabric pucker or distort.

The final stitching should also be close enough to the edge so the underside of the bias tape is caught securely.

Conclusion

Bias tape is used to finish raw fabric edges neatly and prevent fraying.

To sew it properly, open the fold, stitch it to the fabric edge, fold it over the raw edge, press, and stitch again.

For better results, press each fold, avoid stretching the tape, and handle curves and corners carefully.

Looking for bias tape and sewing finishing supplies?

Istana Kancing provides bias tape, lace, ribbons, threads, needles, scissors, buttons, zippers, lining, interfacing, beads, sequins, and garment accessories for tailors, fashion brands, garment makers, and wholesale orders.