Bias tape and zipper bundles at Felinus Fabrics

Bias Tape Basics: Knit vs. Woven, and What to Make With a Bundle

Bias tape is one of those quiet heroes of sewing. It finishes edges, binds curves and adds a pop of color where you least expect it. If you've ever stood in front of a wall of bias tape wondering which kind to buy, this quick guide is for you.

Knit vs. woven bias tape

Knit bias tape is cut from stretchy knit fabric, like T-shirt jersey. It bends and stretches easily, so it's the natural choice for finishing knit garments: T-shirt necklines, armholes, and anything that needs to move with the body. It feels soft against the skin and won't fight a stretchy fabric.

Woven bias tape is cut on the diagonal (the "bias") of a woven fabric, which gives it just enough give to curve without stretching out of shape. It's the classic pick for quilts, aprons, tote bags, pot holders and finishing seams inside jackets and skirts made from woven fabrics.

A simple rule: match the tape to your fabric. Knit tape for knits, woven tape for wovens, and you'll get flatter, smoother edges every time.

Choosing a width

  • About 1": great for necklines, armholes and lightweight projects where you want a slim finish.
  • 1.25" to 1-3/8": a little more to work with. Easier to handle for beginners, and good for quilt binding, bag edges and bolder trim.

What to make with a bias tape bundle

A bundle gives you enough yardage to stop rationing and start experimenting. A few ideas:

  1. Bind T-shirt necklines and armholes. Knit tape stretches around curves without puckering.
  2. Make soft ties and drawstrings for bags, pajama pants and hoodies.
  3. Stretch it into cord. Pull a length of knit tape and it curls into a soft cord, perfect for gift ties, crochet or kids' crafts.
  4. Finish quilts and aprons with woven tape for a crisp, durable edge.
  5. Wrap and craft: headbands, wreaths, basket handles and gift wrapping.
  6. Stock up for a class or studio. Teachers and makers who sew a lot get the most out of a bundle.

New bias tape bundles in the shop

These are deadstock, so there's only one bundle of each:

Finishing a bag or jacket too? We also just added heavier-duty metal zippers made in the USA, sold without pull tabs so you can add your own custom pulls.

Browse everything new in New Arrivals, or see the full bias tape collection. Free US shipping on orders $50+.

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