Bias Tape & Binding

A bias tape maker is a small metal or plastic tool that folds fabric strips into uniform bias tape as you pull the fabric through and press with an iron.

To use one:

• Cut fabric strips: Cut on the bias (45-degree angle) at the width specified for your tape maker size.
• Feed the strip: Insert the fabric strip into the wide end of the tool, wrong side up.
• Pull and press: Use a pin or stiletto to guide the fabric through. Press with an iron as the folded tape emerges from the narrow end.

Bias tape makers come in different sizes (6mm to 50mm) to create various tape widths. The tool does the folding while your iron sets the creases.

To calculate quilt binding length:

• Measure the perimeter: Add all four sides of your quilt together.
• Add extra for corners and joining: Add 10 to 12 inches for mitered corners and seam allowances where binding strips connect.

Example: A 60" x 80" quilt has a perimeter of 280 inches. Add 12 inches for a total of 292 inches (about 8.2 yards) of binding.

To figure out how much fabric you need, divide your total binding length by the usable width of your fabric (usually 40 inches), then multiply by your strip width (typically 2.25" to 2.5" for double-fold binding).

Use our Binding Calculator to get exact measurements for your project.

The best fabrics for bias binding are:

• Quilting cotton: The most common choice. Holds a crease well and comes in many colors and prints.
• Lawn or voile: Lightweight options for delicate garments or baby items.
• Linen: Works well for home decor projects. Softens with washing.
• Silk: Good for formal garments where you want a subtle, luxurious finish.

Avoid thick fabrics like denim or canvas for binding. They create too much bulk at corners and seams. Stretchy knits can work but are harder to handle.

For quilt binding, many quilters use the same fabric as the quilt backing or choose a coordinating thread that blends with multiple fabrics in the quilt.

Bias tape finishes raw edges on garments, quilts, and home decor projects. Here's how to apply it:

For single-fold bias tape:

• Open the tape and align one raw edge with your fabric's raw edge, right sides together.
• Stitch along the fold line.
• Wrap the tape over the raw edge to the back and stitch in place.

For double-fold bias tape:

• Slip the fabric edge inside the folded tape so the raw edge sits against the center fold.
• Pin or clip in place.
• Stitch close to the open edge of the tape, catching both sides in one pass.

A bias binder foot speeds up application by folding and guiding the tape as you sew. Pair with a walking foot when binding multiple layers like quilts.

Choose bias tape width based on your project type and fabric weight:

• 1/4" (6mm): Delicate finishes on lightweight fabrics, doll clothes, or decorative trim.
• 1/2" (12mm): Armholes, necklines, and curved edges on garments.
• 1" (25mm): General purpose binding for crafts, aprons, and home decor.
• 2" to 2.5": Standard for quilt binding. Creates a visible border on the quilt edge.

For quilt binding, most quilters cut strips 2.25" to 2.5" wide for double-fold binding. This creates a finished binding width of about 1/4" to 3/8" on the front and back of the quilt.

Thicker fabrics and projects with more wear (like potholders or bag straps) benefit from wider binding for durability.

To attach bias binding to a quilt:

• Prepare the binding: Cut 2.25" to 2.5" strips on the bias or straight grain. Join strips end-to-end and press in half lengthwise, wrong sides together.
• Attach to the front: Align raw edges of the binding with the quilt top. Start in the middle of one side, not at a corner. Stitch with a 1/4" seam allowance using a walking foot.
• Miter the corners: Stop 1/4" from each corner, backstitch, and remove from machine. Fold binding up at 45 degrees, then back down along the next edge. Resume stitching from the top.
• Join the ends: Overlap the beginning and end of the binding, trim excess, and join with a diagonal seam or tuck method.
• Finish the back: Fold binding to the back of the quilt, covering the seam line. Hand stitch with a blind hem or machine stitch in the ditch from the front.

Use binding clips instead of pins to hold the binding in place without distorting the layers.