Using a Clover bias tape maker is a straightforward process that transforms fabric strips into perfectly folded tape, ready for sewing or crafting. This handy tool helps you create consistent, professional-looking bias tape or straight-grain tape quickly and easily.
Here's a simple guide based on the essential steps:
Preparing Your Fabric
The first crucial step is preparing your fabric strip. The direction you cut your fabric determines the type of tape you create and its uses.
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Cutting Direction:
- For hem finishing or binding curves, cut the fabric into strips diagonally at a 45° angle to the fabric's selvage. This creates bias tape, which has stretch and flexibility, making it ideal for navigating curves smoothly.
- For tape cloth handicraft or straight applications where you don't need stretch, you can cut the fabric strips vertical or horizontal to the selvage (along the grain). This creates straight-grain tape, which is more stable.
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Strip Width: The width you cut your fabric strip depends on the size of your bias tape maker. The tape maker will fold the strip to a quarter of its initial width (or half if making single-fold tape before a second fold). For example, a 1-inch bias tape maker typically requires a 2-inch wide fabric strip. Always check the instructions that came with your specific tape maker for the recommended strip width.
Making the Tape
Once your fabric strip is cut to the correct width and angle, you're ready to use the tape maker.
Step-by-Step Process
- Insert the fabric through the Tape Maker. Start by feeding one end of your prepared fabric strip into the wide end of the bias tape maker. You might need to slightly angle the tip of the fabric or use a pin to push it through until it emerges from the narrow end, already folded inwards on both sides.
- Pin the fabric edges then iron the folded tape as you pull the Tape Maker. Once the fabric starts coming out, use a pin or stiletto to hold the emerging folded fabric tape steady. Place a hot iron directly behind the tape maker. Slowly pull the tape maker away from the iron, guiding the folded fabric out. As the folded fabric emerges, iron it flat immediately behind the tape maker. This sets the crisp folds permanently.
Continue pulling the tape maker and ironing until the entire fabric strip has passed through the tool and been pressed into finished tape.
Quick Reference Table: Cutting Your Fabric
| Tape Type | Cutting Angle | Ideal Use Cases | Fabric Stability | Stretch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bias Tape | 45° Diagonal | Hem finishing, binding curves, piping | Lower | High |
| Straight Tape | Vertical/Horizontal | Straight edges, ties, decoration | Higher | Low |
Note: Always refer to the instructions for your specific bias tape maker model for the precise fabric strip width needed.
By following these steps, you can efficiently create your own bias tape or straight tape in any fabric you desire, adding a professional touch to your sewing and crafting projects.
