Finishing your raw edges with double fold bias tape makes it look neat and professional and is often used for quilting, armholes, necklines and decorative finishes. Here are 2 methods of how to sew double fold bias tape. You can use store-purchased tape or make your own with a bias maker using my easy how to make bias tape tutorial. The advantage of making your own bias tape is that you can use pretty patterned fabrics to coordinate with your sewing projects.

What is Double Fold Bias Tape?
Double fold bias tape is a fabric that is cut on the diagonal (the bias) and then pressed into quarters along its length. It can be used for decorative purposes or to finish an otherwise raw edge. If you look in your cupboard, you are bound to see several tops and dresses with double fold bias necklines and armholes.
If you look at the double fold bias, you can see that the raw ends are folded inside.
The most commonly used width is ½ inch (12mm) double fold bias tape. ¼ inch (6mm) widths are commonly used in bias bound seams.
Further Reading: Types of bias tape
How to Sew Double Fold Bias Tape Video
Here is a YouTube video I made for you on how to make sew double fold bias tape. Make sure you subscribe to my YouTube channel for weekly sewing videos.
How to Sew Double Fold Bias Step by Step Instructions
Method 1 – Fast and Easy Double Fold Bias Sewing
I’m not sure you would call this cheating, but it is certainly the fastest way to sew bias tape. I would generally use it on a straight or very slightly curved edge. If you have an edge that is tightly curved or small and fiddly, then you will get better results with method 2.
- Notice how one side of the bias tape is wider than the other. Open the tape up in half so the wider edge is on the bottom.
- Now simply slip the bias over the fabric so the raw edges are sandwiched in the middle. Pin the bias in place from the top (narrower) edge.
- Stitch it in place. Because the bottom edge is wider, it should be caught in all the way along. Easy, isn’t it?
Method 2 - Sewing Double Fold Bias Tape, Traditional
So what do you do when you have a fiddly edge to bind, or you want a foolproof professional finish? This will take you a little longer, but the results can be worth it.
TIP: For sewing double fold bias tape curves, press the tape in a curve before you start. This will reduce any wrinkles.
Step 1 - Open and Stitch First Seam
Open up your double fold bias so that the wrong side is facing up. Pin the WIDER side to the wrong side of your project with the raw edges matching. I like to place my pins vertically to the edges as it holds the tape in place nicely.
Stitch along the folded edge of the tape closest to the edge.
Step 2 - Press and Wrap
Flip your project over so it is right-side up on your table.
Wrap the bias tape over the raw edge and fold it over. The folded edge should just cover the row of stitches. Make sure it lies smoothly and is not pulled or wrinkled. Pin it in place.
Step 2 - Sew the Double Fold Bias
Now on the right side, stitch close to the open edge of the bias. This will catch in the underneath of the bias. Don’t forget to remove those pins! Just beautiful!
How to Sew Double Fold Bias Tape with Overlapping & Finishing
How to Overlap Double Fold Bias Tape
If you are sewing something circular, for example, a bound neck or armhole, you will want a seamless overlap. Use this simple technique to hide where the double fold bias binding overlaps.
Where you start, fold the end over by ½ inch (12mm). It is always best to start somewhere the join will not be noticed.
When you get back to where you started just overlap the ends by ½ inch (12mm). The top end should be flat and not folded over like the underneath piece.
Sewing Double Fold Bias Tape on Ends
If you need to bind the end of your project, simply fold the end over by ½ inch (12mm). Then stitch and sew the bias as normal.
When you fold the bias over the ends will be neatly tucked inside.
Do you have any extra tips on how to sew double fold bias tape? Which method do you prefer? Let us know in the comments below!
TRY YOUR SKILLS ON: Heidi Dress Sewing Pattern or Sophia Top Pattern
More Articles on Bias Tape
- How to Make Bias Tape with a Bias Maker
- How to Make Bias Tape with no Special Tools
- How to Sew Single Fold Bias Tape
- How to Sew Double Fold Bias Tape
- How to Make Continuous Bias Tape
- How to sew Mitred Square Corners with Bias Tape
- Types of Bias Tape
- Bias Bound Seam
- Hong Kong Finish
- Sewing Bias Tape
- How to Sew a V Neck with Bias Tape
How to Sew Double Fold Bias Tape
Tools
- Sewing Basics
Materials
- Fabric
Instructions
- Open up your double fold bias so that the wrong side is facing up. Pin the WIDER side to the wrong side of your project with the raw edges matching. Stitch along the folded edge of the tape closest to the edge.
- Flip your project over so it is right-side up on your table. Press up the seam.
- Wrap the bias tape over the raw edge and fold it over. The folded edge should just cover the row of stitches. Pin.
- Now on the right side, stitch close to the open edge of the bias.
Cherie
I really never knew your 1st method to sew on the tape! I'm going to give it a try. I have a feeling my mom didn't approve because I know for sure she didn't teach me to put it on that way. All the mistakes I've made so far have been ripped out and fixed. I feel like she's watching and that is what she made us do. RIP it out and fix it. Lol
Margaret Moffat
This is the best demo by far, the only one to mention the wider side, thank you for sharing Treasurie,
, I'll definitely save this for future reference.
Karen James
I wanted to let you know that Simplicity recommended your site when I asked them about using 1/4 inch bias tape. My Mother left me a 12 packages in he sewing stuff. I'll practice on some scraps first because the 1/4 inch is so narrow but I can see where I can use a couple of your ideas.
Thank you so much,
Karen Jame
angela zarate
finally i understand THank you!
Treasurie
It depends on the pattern of course. If the armhole was originally to have a facing, then yes trim the seam allowance. Thanks for reading.
Charity
I have an armhole that I want to finish with double fold bias tape. Should I trim to the 5/8 inch seam allowance first so that the armhole will be the correct size.
Treasurie
Hi Carly, I bought it that way from a local shop. I've seen it sold on Etsy as well. Thanks so much for reading!
Carly
Hi! Was wondering if you added the cream loops to your bias tape somehow? Or if you bought it that way? In love with it! Thank you!
Sheila O'Kelly
Thank you. This is very useful.
Treasurie
Hi Lindsay, the method is the same but you will make your tuck the same angle as your project. If you are going around a corner here is another tutorial. Once again just tuck the corner a little less than the 90 degrees to match your corner. https://blog.treasurie.com/sew-bias-tape-corners-mitered-corners/
Treasurie
Hi Lindsay, the method is the same but you will make your tuck the same angle as your project. If you are going around a corner here is another tutorial. Once again just tuck the corner a little less than the 90 degress to match your corner. https://blog.treasurie.com/sew-bias-tape-corners-mitered-corners/
Lindsay Moxham
I need to finish an end with bias binding which is less than 90 degrees, please would you show me how?