Double fold bias binding tape is a must-have for sewing enthusiasts and DIY crafters alike. Versatile and stylish, it neatly finishes raw fabric edges, adds decorative flair, and enhances durability on apparel, quilts, and home decor projects. This guide will help you navigate the options, ensuring you choose the perfect tape for your next creative endeavor.
Double Fold Bias Binding Tape: Types, Variations, and Applications
| Type/Variation | Typical Widths | Common Materials | Main Applications | Available Colors/Patterns | Special Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Double Fold | 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″ | Cotton, Poly/Cotton | Apparel edges, quilts, crafts | Wide range, solids/patterns | General use, flexible, easy to sew |
| Wide Double Fold | 7/8″, 1″, 1-1/2″ | Cotton, Poly/Cotton | Quilts, blankets, upholstery | Solids, some prints | Covers bulky seams, extra strength |
| Packaged Pre-made | 2-4 yards (varied) | Poly/Cotton blend | Small sewing projects, trims | Typically 5–10 colors | Ready-to-use, iron-free on some |
| Bulk/Custom Orders | Custom lengths | Varies | Bulk crafts, quilting groups, schools | Hundreds of colors, custom | Cost-effective, group discounts |
| Decorative/Novelty | 1/2″–1″ | Satin, lace, metallic | Decorative accents on special apparel | Prints, metallics, textures | Adds visual interest |
Everyday Usage of Double Fold Bias Binding Tape
What is Double Fold Bias Binding Tape Used For?
Double fold bias binding tape is a staple in both garment and craft sewing, providing a clean, finished edge that is durable and flexible. Its double fold construction encloses raw edges fully, making it ideal for items that will be washed or used frequently.
Everyday Uses Include:
– Binding the edges of quilts for strength and a polished appearance
– Finishing armholes and necklines on garments, especially where stretch and curve-following are needed
– Adding decorative accents to bags, aprons, and home décor projects
– Enclosing seams inside jackets (sometimes for reversible garments)
– Trimming placemats, napkins, bibs, and children’s clothing
Why is Bias Binding Tape Special?
Bias tape is cut on the fabric’s bias (at a 45-degree angle to the weave). This allows it to follow curves and stretch ever so slightly, ensuring smooth binding on both straight and contoured edges. Its double fold versions are especially robust, protecting fabric edges from fraying and daily wear.
Benefits of Using Double Fold Bias Binding Tape
- Durability: The double layer of fabric provides strength and extends the life of edges on quilts, garments, and accessories.
- Versatility: Its flexibility makes it suitable for both straight and curved edges, adapting to a wide range of projects.
- Professional Finish: Instantly upgrades the look of your craft or sewing project, covering raw edges with a tidy, even border.
- Wide Selection: Available in various widths, materials, and colors to match or contrast with your project for customization.
- Time-saving: Pre-made options save significant time over making your own, especially for larger projects or batch work.
- Ease of Use: Simple to sew, even for beginners, and suitable for both hand and machine stitching.
How to Choose the Right Double Fold Bias Binding Tape
1. Select the Right Width
- 1/4″–3/8″: Ideal for lightweight garments, small projects, edging necklines, or armholes.
- 1/2″: Most popular for quilts and medium-weight projects.
- 7/8″–1″+: Best for thick quilts, blankets, items with bulky seams, or a more substantial border.
2. Consider Material Content
- Cotton: Soft, flexible, easy to handle, and perfect for most quilting or apparel projects.
- Polyester: Adds durability, retains color well, and resists wrinkles—often blended with cotton for best results.
- Specialty Materials (Satin/Lace): Use for decorative applications or special occasion garments.
3. Length and Packaging
- Packaged (2–4 yards): Great for small or one-off projects.
- Bulk Rolls: Cost-effective for frequent use, group projects, or for ensuring color consistency across many items.
- Custom Cuts: Useful for very specific needs or custom color requirements.
4. Color and Pattern Choices
- Solid colors create a classic finish or blend seamlessly.
- Prints/novelty options add a pop of personality or a custom look.
- Choose darker shades for a bold frame; lighter for subtle blending.
5. Assess Quality and Opacity
- Thicker tapes provide better coverage, especially on high-contrast or patterned fabrics.
- Very thin or sheer tapes can look unfinished and may not wear as well (consider user reviews for product quality insights).
6. Special Features
- No-Iron/Pre-Ironed: Some brands offer tapes that do not require pressing before use.
- Group Discounts/Custom Orders: Useful for clubs, classes, or large projects.
Best Practices and User Tips
Tips for Choosing Double Fold Bias Tape
- Test Before Committing: Always sample a small piece to ensure compatibility with your fabric (in terms of color bleed, stretching, and coverage).
- Check for Opacity: For high-contrast projects, ensure your tape isn’t transparent. Thicker, denser tapes will provide better results.
- Match or Contrast Colors: Use matching tape for a seamless look; choose contrasting colors or prints for a highlight or accent.
- Calculate Required Length: Measure the perimeter of your project, add extra for corners and joining, and buy a bit more than needed.
Tips for Using Double Fold Bias Tape
- Pre-wash if Needed: If sewing onto washable fabrics, pre-wash bias tape to prevent future shrinking.
- Press as You Go: Pressing the tape before sewing and after each step helps keep edges crisp and manageable.
- Sew in Two Passes: Attach one edge of the tape first, then fold over and sew the opposite edge for best control and neatness.
- Navigating Curves: Take your time and clip curves if needed to help the tape lay flat.
- Avoid Overstretching: Don’t pull bias tape tightly as you sew, or it may warp the edge or create puckers.
- Miter Corners: Fold tape neatly at corners for a professional finish; there are many tutorials and tools to help with this.
- Choose the Right Needle and Thread: Use a universal needle and thread suitable for your tape and project fabrics.
- For Reversible Projects: Enclose inside seams with bias tape for clean edges on both sides—especially nice for jackets and bags.
- Store Carefully: Store excess bias tape flat or rolled to prevent creasing.
- Buy Quality: Read reviews to avoid disappointments with low-quality, overly sheer, or flimsy tapes.
Technical Features & Specifications Comparison Table
| Attribute/Feature | Standard Double Fold | Wide Double Fold | Decorative/Novelty | Bulk/Commercial |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Widths | 1/4″, 3/8″, 1/2″ | 7/8″, 1″, 1.5″ | 1/2″–1″ | 1/2″–1″+ (customizable) |
| Common Materials | 100% Cotton, Cotton/Poly | Cotton, Poly/Cotton | Satin, Lace, Metallic | Cotton, Poly/Cotton |
| Length per Package | 2–4 yards (packaged) | 3–4 yards (packaged) | 2–3 yards | 25 yards or more |
| Color Options | 5–10 per brand | Fewer, mostly solids | Wide, includes prints | Vast, custom available |
| Opacity/Thickness | Medium | Thicker | Varies (can be sheer) | Usually thicker, durable |
| Pre-folded/Ready-to-use | Yes | Yes | Yes | Varies |
| No-iron Feature | Sometimes | Sometimes | Rare | Rare |
| Best for | General sewing, garments | Quilts, blankets | Decorative uses | Bulk, commercial work |
| Price Range (USD) | $0.99–$3.99/pack | $1.99–$5.99/pack | $2.50–$7.99/pack | $10–$50/roll (varies) |
| Custom Orders Possible | Usually not | Rare | Sometimes | Yes |
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Conclusion
Double fold bias binding tape is an essential for sewists seeking strong, beautiful edges on a variety of projects. Its flexible, bias-cut nature means it works for both straight and curved finishes, and its double-layered construction offers durability and longevity. With a wide range of widths, materials, colors, and purchasing options available, there’s a bias tape to suit every project, from quilts and apparel to home décor and crafts. By making careful choices about quality, width, and material, and following effective usage techniques, you’ll achieve professional results every time.
FAQ
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What is double fold bias binding tape, and how does it differ from single fold bias tape?
Double fold bias binding tape is a strip of fabric, cut on the bias, folded twice to enclose all raw edges. It’s typically used to finish edges on quilts, garments, and accessories. Single fold bias tape is folded only once and is thinner; it’s often used as an internal facing rather than a finished edge. -
Why use double fold bias binding tape instead of just hemming raw edges?
Double fold bias tape provides extra strength, greater flexibility for curves, and a more polished appearance compared to a simple hem. It also better protects the edge from wear, which is especially important in quilts and items subject to frequent use. -
What’s the best width for most projects?
For general garment and home décor applications, 1/2″ double fold bias tape is the most versatile. For heavy quilts or blankets, 7/8″ or 1″ widths offer the coverage needed for bulkier layers.
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Do I need to pre-wash bias tape before sewing?
If your project (and bias tape) is 100% cotton or intended for frequent washing, pre-washing is recommended to prevent surprises from shrinkage. Most poly/cotton blends are pre-shrunk and can be used right away. -
How do I ensure my bias tape doesn’t twist, pucker, or “show through”?
Choose high-quality, dense bias tape for optimal coverage. Avoid overstretching while sewing, and use proper pressing to keep the tape flat. For light or sheer tapes, avoid using them on high-contrast fabrics. -
Can I make my own double fold bias binding tape?
Yes! Making your own lets you choose custom fabrics, coordinate perfectly, and control density/quality. You’ll need a rotary cutter, ruler, iron, and optionally a bias tape maker. Cut strips at a 45-degree angle to the fabric grain for true bias flexibility. -
What material should I choose for baby quilts or children’s clothing?
Soft 100% cotton or a cotton/polyester blend works best for comfort, durability, and ease of care. Avoid tapes with glitter, metallic threads, or stiffer materials for children’s items. -
How do I join multiple lengths of bias tape for large projects?
Sew pieces together at a 45-degree angle to avoid bulky seams. Trim seam allowances and press them open before folding for use. -
What can I do if the only available tape is too thin or see-through?
Look for reviews to assess product coverage before buying. If your existing tape is too sheer, double it up or seek out a higher-quality, thicker brand. For important projects, purchasing in bulk from reputable suppliers may yield better results. -
How do I finish corners or join the ends of bias tape neatly?
At corners, miter the bias tape by folding it at a 45-degree angle before turning. For joining the ends, overlap them neatly or use a diagonal seam for less bulk. Tutorials and guides are widely available for step-by-step visuals.
By following the tips and advice in this guide, you’ll select and use double fold bias binding tape with confidence, elevating the finish and longevity of every sewn project.