I have been working on a vintage velvet jacket and needed to create my own bias binding in order to have the perfect trim. Creating binding is not complicated and it can actually be quite a relaxing task if you give yourself a bit of time. Once you get the hang of it you can make about 6 meters of custom binding in about half and hour. I love the step by step instructions that Sarah from Pattern Union PDF Sewing Patterns has posted on YouTube She outlines beautifully how to get your fabric prepped and create your continuous bias binding 'tube'. It's a really fun process and cutting a super long strip of bias binding at the end is so rewarding. This method is sooo much easier then sewing together individual strips! She offers some great hints about creating small seams and using very small stitches so your bias stays secure.
I created my bias tape from a light weight chambray denim. I used the reverse side of the fabric because I wanted the lighter colour, cutting 2" strips to make double sided bias. Wider bias allows for good coverage over the fabric edge and prevents it from pulling away. On a fragile vintage velvet, this was important.
I used a bias tape maker kit that I purchased on Amazon for a really reasonable price. The kit offers several sizes and it comes with a special foot that helps you to sew on bias quickly and easily. I chose to pin and sew my bias without the foot this time as I wanted a very exact fit and thread line. I use the bias binding foot for bias on the inside of garments and for longer straight edges.
I hope that this has inspired you to create your own bias binding. It is a great way to use up scraps of fabric and to add flare and fun to any make, after all...there is Sew Much To Design!
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