Tips for Cutting Bias Strips | Video
Learn a quick technique for creating consistently even strips in fabrics ranging from sheer tricot to corduroy.
Cutting bias strips is a task most sewers perform at some point during their sewing adventures, because bias strips are used frequently as edge finishes and for decorative purposes. Daryl Lancaster shows us where and when to use bias strips, such as on seam allowances, garment perimeters, and even to make custom closures.
Cut strips
Daryl demonstrates an efficient and speedy method for cutting bias strips, whether you’re using a lining fabric, a lightweight woven, or a sheer nylon tricot. Her approach makes it possible to cut consistent strips with a rotary cutter, even when working on a small, 12-inch by 18-inch cutting mat.
Piece strips
Finally, Daryl explains how to piece shorter strips to make a longer one. This is especially helpful if you are binding a full garment perimeter or a large project such as a quilt.
Threads Insider members can learn more about how to apply a narrow bias facing using bias strips, in “How to Sew a Bias Edge” by Susan Crane.
Thank you so much for this! I love to use bias for finishes but loath cutting bias as I cannot figure out how to cut it correctly, spend a lot of time wrestling with the fabric to get it to line up or cut bias that is uneven, crooked or not really bias. Compound this with trying to make longer strips when needed and I usually just want to give up. This tutorial is clear, simply and great.
Excellent and clear explanation. The beginning demonstrated uses of bias strips that I never considered! Thank you!
Great! I've never seen this fold-up-material technique done this way. Cutting bias is so much easier than I expected, and I'm now excited to give this a try. I'm thinking, for me, I'd probably need to use weights to hold the material in position to avoid having it get out of alignment. I'm going to seek out all of your videos for your thorough explanations and demonstrations. I love that you leave nothing to my (often misguided!) imagination! :-)
Wow, it is so clear. Thank you !