How to Use a Bias Tape Maker (Simple + Video)

Learning how to use a bias tape maker is the fastest way to create neat, consistent bias tape for your sewing projects. This handy tool folds fabric strips evenly, saving time and effort compared to manual methods. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to use a bias tape maker step by step, plus tips for making both single and double-fold bias tape.

What is a Bias Tape Maker in Sewing?

The bias tape maker is a metal sewing tool that folds the bias tape with equal sides touching in the middle. You pull your strips of fabric through this wonderful gadget, and out comes single-fold bias tape. A bias tape maker is also called a bias binding maker or bias tape tool in some countries.

💡For a complete overview, see my guide on how to make and sew bias tape.

The bias tape maker is a very nifty little machine that helps you to make bias tape. If you are going to bind with your own self-made tape, then this machine will save you lots of time. It is creative, funky, and adds that special one-of-a-kind touch to whatever you are making. T

Bias Tape Makers Sizes

It is important to note the bias tape maker comes in different widths. Having a couple of different sizes will give you more variety and scope. Bias tape can be used for a wide range of projects and is especially useful for trimming, neatening, and even hemming. It can be used for placemats, blankets, pillows and so much more.

💡Learn more about types of bias tape before choosing your size.

When purchasing your bias tape maker, look for one with several sizes in a kit form, and that will ensure you have a tape for every occasion.

💡TIP for Bias Tape Maker Sizes: When looking at the widths on the bias tape makers, keep in mind that this is the width of the finished single-fold bias tape. It is not the width of the fabric strips that you will insert inside.

How to Use a Bias Tape Maker Video

Watch my YouTube video showing you how to quickly make bias binding tape and how to use a bias tape maker. In addition, I post weekly sewing and craft videos, so please subscribe.

How to Use a Bias Tape Maker (Step by Step)

Here are the steps for how to use a bias tape maker:

Supplies for Using a Bias Tape Maker

• Fabric – For the best results, stick to natural fibers like cotton. Choose a fabric that has a small print because the bias binding strip is cut out into small narrow strips.
• Bias Tape Maker – I like the Dritz, Clover, Simplicity and Birch brands. Some generic brands have ends that are too wide and don’t give as accurate results.
• Sewing Basics – Sewing machine, ruler, scissors or rotary cutter and cutting mat, pins, iron

1. Cut the Fabric Strips

Cut the fabric you are using into the bias fabric strips at the right width for the bias binding maker you have purchased. Cut the tip of the fabric at a 45-degree angle, ready to feed into the bias strip maker.

How to Use a Bias Tape Maker Chart

Here is an easy bias tape maker size chart you can reference.

Bias Tape Maker Sizes and Fabric Width

Maker Size	Fabric Strip Width (Single Fold)	Fabric Width (Double Fold)
1/4 inch	1/2 inch	1 inch
1/2 inch	1 inch	2 inches
1 inch	2 inches	4 inches

How to Cut Bias Strips for a Bias Tape Maker

Bias strips are best cut from squares of fabric. Cut a square of the fabric you plan to use and then fold it diagonally to mark the center. Measure strips along the diagonal at the width you need to use for your bias tape maker. 

2. Join the Bias Strips

Join the strips on the diagonal to ensure the stretch is continued for each strip of bias.  Place two strips right sides together and stitch from corner to corner with a 1/4 inch (6mm) seam allowance. Press open the seams and trim the little triangles that stick out.

Alternatively, learn how to make continuous bias strips. It is easy to do and works like magic. This avoids the bulk of having too many joins in the tape.

3. Insert the End of The Strip

Ease the angled side of the bias strip into wider end of the bias strip maker. This will be the end with the handle.

4. Pull and Press with the Bias Tape Maker

You feed the strip into the wider side of the bias strip maker and pull it through. Then, get ready to iron the strip as you pull it through the maker.

As the bias is pulled through the bias strip maker, press the sides of the tape to meet in the middle. Set your iron on steam and press down on the tape as the folded bias tape comes through the machine. It is a pull-and-press action rather than a sliding action. Stop pressing and remove the machine at the end of pulling all the tape you have joined through. 

4. Roll and Store

Roll your ready-made bias tape onto a cardboard rectangle and pin the ends to keep it neat and straight until you are ready to use the tape.

Making Double-Fold Bias Tape with a Bias Maker

There is an extra step involved in making double-fold bias tape.

1. Make single-fold bias tape with your bias maker.
2. Fold the tape in half down the center and press again. One side should be just slightly wider than the other – 1/16″ (1.5mm) is enough.

Alternatives to Using a Bias Tape Maker

Did you know there are alternative ways to make bias tape single or double fold without buying a bias tape maker? For each of these ideas, start with your ready-cut bias tape strips.

1. Fold and Iron Method – This method is rather labor-intensive as the bias tape fabric is folded in half to get a center fold. Then the outside edges are folded and pressed to the middle to create the double-fold bias tape using an iron. 
2. Needle Method – This DIY bias tape maker method uses the ironing board and a dress-making pin or a needle for greater length. 
3. Card and Pin Method – For this DIY bias maker, you need a firm card, a craft knife or sharp scissors, and a couple of pins. The beauty of this method is that your card and the slit cut for the tape can be any size you like.

Pin for Later

Tips for Using a Bias Tape Maker

• Cut strips accurately on the bias
• Keep tension steady when pulling
• Press as you pull for best results
• Use cotton fabric for easier folding

Common Mistakes When Using a Bias Tape Maker

• Cutting strips too wide or narrow
• Pulling too quickly without pressing
• Using thick fabric that won’t fold well
• Skipping pressing steps

How to Use a Bias Tape Maker FAQs

How to Use a Bias Tape Maker – In Conclusion

A bias tape maker is a simple tool that makes creating bias tape faster, easier, and more consistent. By learning how to cut, feed, and press correctly, you can produce professional-quality bias tape for any sewing project. Once you get comfortable using it, this tool becomes an essential part of your sewing toolkit.

MORE ARTICLES ON BIAS TAPE

1. How to Make Bias Tape
2. How to Sew Bias Tape
3. How to Make Continuous Bias Tape
4. Bias Bound Seam
5. Hong Kong Finish
6. How to Sew a V Neck with Bias Tape
7. How to Make Piping
8. Sewing Piping
9. How to Bind a Quilt
10. How to Use a Bias Tape Maker
11. What is Bias Tape