How to Use a Bias Tape Maker: Step-by-Step for Beginners

Quick Answer

To use a bias tape maker, cut a fabric strip to the correct width, feed one end through the tool, and pull it slowly while pressing the folded edges with a hot iron. The tool folds both edges toward the center, creating single-fold bias tape. For double-fold tape, fold the single-fold strip in half and press again.

Cut the Right Fabric Strip Width

The strip width you cut depends on the finished bias tape size you want. A general rule: for single-fold tape, cut the strip about twice the finished width plus a small allowance for the fold. For example, to make 1/2-inch single-fold tape, cut a strip around 1 inch wide. For double-fold tape, you'll need a wider strip because the tape is folded in half again.

Cutting on the bias (at a 45-degree angle to the selvage) gives the tape stretch, which helps it curve smoothly around necklines, armholes, and quilt edges. If you're new to cutting bias strips, use a rotary cutter, quilting ruler, and mat for straight, even strips. A common mistake is cutting strips too narrow, which makes them hard to feed through the tool and results in thin, weak tape.

Feed the Fabric Through the Tool

Insert one end of the fabric strip into the wide opening of the bias tape maker. Use a pin or stiletto to push it through until it emerges from the narrow end. The tool will fold both edges toward the center as you pull. If the fabric won't feed smoothly, try trimming the end into a point or slightly dampening it—but avoid stretching the bias.

Pull about an inch of folded fabric out the narrow end and press it flat with your iron to set the fold. This initial press anchors the shape and makes the rest of the process easier. A common mistake is pulling too fast, which causes the fabric to twist or the folds to shift. Work slowly and steadily.

Press as You Pull

With the tool in one hand and your iron in the other, pull the fabric slowly while pressing the folded strip right as it exits the tool. Use a hot, dry iron (no steam) and press—don't glide—to set the folds. A mini iron works well here because it's compact and easy to control next to your machine or pressing station.

Keep the tool close to the iron so the fabric doesn't unfold before you press it. If you're making a long strip, work in sections and let the pressed tape cool before moving it. A common mistake is using steam, which can relax the folds and make them pop open. Another is pressing too far ahead of the tool, which allows the fabric to shift.

Make Double-Fold Bias Tape

To turn single-fold bias tape into double-fold tape, fold the strip in half lengthwise with wrong sides together and press. The folded edges from the first pass should meet in the middle. This creates the classic double-fold binding used for quilt edges and garment finishes.

If you're making a lot of tape, you can use a bias tape maker in a smaller size to fold the single-fold tape again, but most sewists simply fold and press by hand. A common mistake is folding unevenly, which makes the finished binding lopsided. Check that the edges align before pressing.

Step-by-Step Bias Tape Maker Instructions

1. Cut bias strips: Cut fabric strips on the bias at the width needed for your finished tape size. For 1/2-inch single-fold tape, cut about 1 inch wide. Checkpoint: strips should be even and free of frayed edges.
2. Thread the tool: Insert one end of the strip into the wide opening of the bias tape maker and push it through until it comes out the narrow end. Mistake to avoid: forcing thick fabric through; trim the end to a point if needed.
3. Pull and press: Slowly pull the fabric through the tool while pressing the folded strip with a hot, dry iron as it exits. Checkpoint: folds should stay centered and flat; if they shift, slow down.
4. Set the folds: Press the entire length of tape once more to set the folds, then let it cool before handling. Mistake to avoid: using steam, which can relax the folds.
5. Make double-fold tape: Fold the single-fold tape in half lengthwise, matching the folded edges, and press again. Checkpoint: edges should align evenly; trim any uneven ends.

Tools That Make Bias Tape Easier

• Bias Tape Makers - 4 sizes: 1/4" , 1/2", 3/4", 1": This set of 4 bias tape maker tools will fold both edges of your fabric to the center with great precision and low effort to create 1/4", 1/2", 3/4", or 1" wide single-fold bias tape. Having multiple sizes lets you match the tape width to your project without buying separate tools.
• Mini Iron – A Must-Have Tool for Sewing & Quilting: The Madam Sew Mini Iron is designed to sit right next to your sewing machine, making it easy to press seams, quilt blocks, and small fabric pieces as you work. A mini iron keeps the pressing step close to your work area, so you can press bias tape as you pull it without walking to a full-size ironing board.