You need bias tape primarily for finishing raw edges on fabric, such as armholes and necklines, giving them a clean and professional look.
Bias tape is a versatile sewing notion used to neatly enclose or decorate raw fabric edges that might otherwise fray or look unfinished. It's made by cutting fabric strips on the bias (at a 45-degree angle to the selvage), which gives the tape flexibility and stretch. This stretch is particularly useful when finishing curved edges like those found on necklines and armholes.
Key Uses of Bias Tape
Based on its properties and common applications, bias tape serves several important functions in sewing:
- Finishing Raw Edges: This is one of the most common uses. Bias tape can be sewn over or around a raw edge to prevent fraying and create a clean boundary. This is especially valuable for garment edges.
- Creating a Bound Edge: As highlighted by Seamwork, bias tape can be used to create a bound edge.
- According to the reference, bias tape can be used to finish raw edges—like armholes and necklines—in a variety of ways.
- It specifically notes that Using double fold bias tape creates a bound edge that is visible from both the wrong and right side.
- Adding Decorative Accents: Bias tape can also be used as a decorative trim along edges, seams, or as a design element on the surface of a project.
- Making Straps or Loops: Wider bias tape can be folded and stitched to create fabric straps for bags, ties for garments, or small loops.
Different Types and Effects
Bias tape comes in various widths and can be single fold or double fold, which affects how it's applied and the final look.
- Single Fold Bias Tape: Usually folded once lengthwise, it's often used to finish edges by sewing it flat to the wrong side and then folding it over to the right side before stitching.
- Double Fold Bias Tape: Pre-folded twice lengthwise, it's designed to encase a raw edge entirely. As the reference mentions, Using double fold bias tape creates a bound edge that is visible from both the wrong and right side. This provides a very clean finish on both sides of the fabric.
Here's a simple comparison of the finishing effects based on the Seamwork reference:
| Bias Tape Type | Application Method | Edge Finish | Visibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double Fold | Encasing a raw edge | Bound | Right and Wrong Side |
| (Other methods) | (Various, e.g., facing) | (Varied finishes) | (Varies) |
In essence, bias tape is essential for achieving durable, non-fraying, and aesthetically pleasing finishes on fabric edges, particularly on curved sections of garments like armholes and necklines.
