Hey there! I'm a supplier of bias tape, and I'm super stoked to share with you how to make bias tape from jersey fabric. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional sewer, making your own bias tape can be a fun and cost - effective way to add that special touch to your projects. Let's dive right in!
Why Use Jersey Fabric for Bias Tape?
First off, jersey fabric is a great choice for bias tape. It's stretchy, soft, and has a lovely drape. This makes it perfect for projects where you need the tape to flex and bend with the fabric, like making clothing, baby items, or even home decor. Unlike non - stretchy fabrics, jersey bias tape won't pull or pucker when you sew it onto curved edges, giving you a smooth and professional finish.
What You'll Need
- Jersey Fabric: You can use any type of jersey, like cotton jersey, modal jersey, or even a blend. Just make sure it's in good condition and free of any holes or stains.
- Rotary Cutter and Cutting Mat: These tools will make cutting the fabric strips much easier and more precise.
- Sewing Machine: A basic sewing machine will do the job, but if you have a serger, it can speed up the process.
- Iron: You'll need an iron to press the bias tape as you go, which helps keep it flat and neat.
- Pins: Pins are handy for holding the fabric in place while you sew.
Step 1: Prepare the Fabric
Before you start cutting, it's a good idea to wash and dry your jersey fabric. This will pre - shrink it and make sure that your bias tape won't shrink after you've sewn it onto your project. Once the fabric is dry, lay it out on a flat surface and smooth out any wrinkles.
Cutting the fabric on the bias is crucial. The bias is the diagonal grain of the fabric, which gives the tape its stretch. To find the bias, fold the fabric so that the selvage (the finished edge of the fabric) meets the cross - grain (the edge perpendicular to the selvage). The fold line is the bias.
Step 2: Cut the Strips
Using your rotary cutter and cutting mat, cut strips of fabric along the bias. The width of the strips will depend on how wide you want your bias tape to be. For a standard double - fold bias tape, cut strips that are about 2 inches wide. If you're making single - fold bias tape, 1 inch wide strips will work well.
Make sure to cut the strips as straight as possible. You can use a ruler or a cutting guide to help you. If you're cutting a lot of strips, it might be a good idea to mark the width on the cutting mat with a fabric marker.
Step 3: Join the Strips
If you need a longer piece of bias tape, you'll need to join the strips together. To do this, take two strips and place them right sides together at a 90 - degree angle. Sew a diagonal seam across the corner, starting from the outside edge of the strips. Trim the excess fabric close to the seam, and then press the seam open.
Step 4: Make Double - Fold Bias Tape
If you're making double - fold bias tape, fold each strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press the fold with your iron. Then, fold the strip in half again, this time with the raw edges on the inside and the folded edge on the outside. Press the second fold.
Now, you can sew along the folded edge to secure the bias tape. You can use a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch, depending on your preference. If you're using a serger, you can serge the edge instead, which will give you a finished look and prevent the fabric from fraying. You can check out our Double Fold Bias Binding Tape for more inspiration.
Step 5: Make Single - Fold Bias Tape
For single - fold bias tape, fold the strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press the fold. Then, fold one raw edge over to meet the folded edge, and press again. Sew along the folded edge to secure the tape. Our Single Fold Bias Binding Tape page has some great examples of how single - fold bias tape can be used.
Tips and Tricks
- Stretch as You Sew: When sewing jersey bias tape, it's important to stretch the tape slightly as you sew. This will help it conform to the shape of your project and prevent it from bunching up.
- Use a Ball - Point Needle: A ball - point needle is designed for sewing stretchy fabrics like jersey. It will prevent the needle from piercing the fabric fibers and causing runs or snags.
- Press Frequently: Pressing the bias tape as you go will keep it looking neat and professional. Make sure to use a low - heat setting on your iron to avoid melting the fabric.
When to Buy Instead of Make
Making your own bias tape is a great option, but there are times when it might be more practical to buy it. If you need a large quantity of bias tape or if you're short on time, purchasing pre - made bias tape can be a good choice. We offer a wide range of Bias Binding Tape in different colors, widths, and materials.
Contact Us for Your Bias Tape Needs
Whether you're interested in our pre - made bias tape or have questions about making your own from jersey fabric, we're here to help. We can provide you with high - quality bias tape that meets your specific requirements. Reach out to us if you're looking to start a procurement discussion. We're eager to work with you and make your sewing projects a success!
References
- "The Complete Guide to Sewing" by Reader's Digest
- "Sewing with Knits" by Sandra Betzina
