I was recently given my grandmother's old sewing box. Inside it's filled with treasures like vintage sewing notions, patterns, and even UFOs. (That's "unfinished objects for those that don't know. I'm blaming genetics in my case.) Also, there are several packages of bias tape remnants. I don't know what I was expecting, but I was struck by the fact that vintage bias tape looks exactly the same as modern bias tape. It's funny how some things never change. I also discovered that my grandmother, like myself, had a really hard time throwing away that last 12 inches of extra bias tape. Sewing addicts must all be cursed in believing that every fabric and notion, no matter how small, will some day come in handy and save us that extra trip to the fabric store.
Anyways, back to the bias tape. It seems that bias tape is definitely not as much in vogue these days as it probably was when my grandmother was sewing. It's mainly used by quilters in finishing up quilts. That being said, I think bias tape still has many other uses in sewing and can be used in numerous projects. I just used some in the making of a potholder. It's a great way to finish, and at the same time, decorate your project. I, honestly, wish there was more projects that utilized bias tape, especially since I started making my own bias tape. Yes, it's easy and cheap to buy it premade, but, let's face it, the selection is not great. There are basic colors, but it seems that, unless I'm needing white or black, the color never quite seems to match. Bias tape with a design is extremely limited as well and if you're like me, you try to pack in as much pizzazz as possible. And really, being able to choose any fabric you want, makes your design possibilities endless. When is that ever a bad thing?
You're probably wondering if making your own bias tape is hard and time consuming. I'm going to be honest with you in that it is somewhat time consuming, but certainly not as bad as you would think and it's definitely not hard. It's made easier and quicker with the use of a rotary cutter. I'd start with a smaller piece of fabric to practice and I'd bet you'd be surprised in how much bias tape you can produce from that amount. In this video tutorial, I used about the size of a fat quarter and I got about 3 yards of bias tape. So, if you want to add a little extra zing to the project, then I strongly suggest you give homemade bias tape a whirl.
In the meantime, if anyone has any brilliant ideas for random 12" pieces of bias tape, please let me know. Grandma and I didn't save them for nothing.
Thanks for the useful tutorial. I ordered my set of bias tape makers and it really is as easy as you say! I always turn to Prof. Pincushion when I’m trying something new.
This is awesome I can’t wait for my bias tape makers to come in to try out. Tks.
Jean
My grandmother saved bits and pieces of bias tape, too, then sewed them together and used them to bind the edges of patchwork pot holders. I enjoyed reading the post.
I am amazed at how simple and easy it is to make bias tape thanks to Professor Pincushion great demonstration on this video!