Bias Tape Maker - Does it Work?

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In this video I demonstrate on how I use a bias tape maker. These strips can be used for binding, applique, handles, and accents. For those that are making masks this tool makes sewing the ties faster and easier. No more burnt fingers.
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[@Vanessa-pe1fo]

Excellent lesson! you are the only one who actually tells you how wide to cut the fabric and to starch the fabric.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you. I’m glad my video was helpful. How wide to cut the fabric is an important part.

[@sgmaxx]

I'm here looking for measurements too. Saw your comment while an add was playing! Thank you!

[@carolyn9693]

I just came to say the same thing. I couldn't find any other videos talking about the measurements!

[@donnajarzen8460]

Starch! Why didn’t I think of that. You’re a genius.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Aw shucks. You’re too kind. I hope It helps.

[@BaronessJames]

Thanks for the video! Mine just arrived home and I wanted to make sure I know how to use them. Thank you for explaining! 😊

[@rsislandcrafts]

You’re welcome 😊

[@rexroat77]

I'm brand new a sewing and using KZbin to learn. This is hands down the best tutorial I've seen! Thank you so much!

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you so much! Welcome to the amazing and creative world of sewing. 🦩

[@molliedove1]

I totally agree!

[@tammyjohnson8150]

I’m new to sewing now. I see by your comment that you were new 2 years ago. I to am using KZbin as my learning guide. I’m wondering if now after 2 years, are you still sewing? I seem to learn so much every day that I wonder where to begin. Or what to do next. Did you feel overwhelmed at first too? I’m so excited every day. And thankful that I have a good basic Singer machine to learn on. And to easily repair lol! Anyway I’m just wondering how others feel as new sewists after they have been at it for a while.

[@sonniecampbell1788]

Good tutorial Robin! Glad you mentioned doubling size of the fabric strip, makes sense but I wouldn’t have thought of that.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thanks Sonnie. I was happy to see that It was a simple way to figure out what size strip to start with. Not everything needs to be complicated 😉

[@geraldineself6017]

Thank you for this very informative tutorial. Explanation of sizes of biased tape that each piece makes and how much fabric you need for each one, and how to make it into double fold bias tape was phenomenal.

[@rsislandcrafts]

You are so welcome!

[@tammyjohnson8150]

I completely agree with the comment that your video is very easy to understand and to follow and learn from. Your delivery in plain language is like you’re having a conversation with a friend. I to am new to sewing and have been using KZbin as my guide for learning. Many other tutorials have been difficult to follow and I have had to look up what they were talking about as I was watching. Very confusing. Thank you for speaking in plain language. Bravo 👏

[@rsislandcrafts]

I appreciate that! That’s exactly what I want my videos to be. Chatting with friends about crafty things. Tips, tricks, and ideas. Thank you. Welcome to the sewing community. Have a wander around my channel when you have the time. I’ll keep you company while you sew.

[@MsCree01]

Thanks for this. Mine is in the car now getting ready to be returned because it didn’t come with instructions. Now I can keep it. 😊

[@rsislandcrafts]

You’re very welcome. It’s a handy tool once you figure It out.

[@lorehuseby1261]

you are the only one who made sense on what width material I needed to cut to make the size of bias tape. Multiple videos of how to fold but only you on what to cut the material at.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you. That was the part that always confused me too.

[@dottiemathews6853]

this is such a nifty tool to use and it saves money on buying binding tape. you can make your own! i just ordered this kit from Amazon. i am looking forward to using it1

[@rsislandcrafts]

It is a fun tool. I like that I can choose any fabric that works for my project. Not just those that are premade and on the shelf. Happy Sewing!!

[@Kahiwalabam]

thank you so much! I was getting so frustrated with mine and this video helped so much!

[@rsislandcrafts]

Glad it helped!

[@charredskeleton]

Thanks for the tip about the store bought stuff and the slightly longer side.

[@rsislandcrafts]

You’re welcome 🦩

[@courtneymelvin2947]

Got the same set today. No instruts incl. Thanks for the video know how it works now.. Best wishes from Newfoundland

[@rsislandcrafts]

You’re welcome.

[@effiejefferson5379]

You make it so easy to understand. Thanks

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you so much. ✂️

[@shanaazmohammed7713]

I bought a set of bias tape makers about 2yrs now and i haven't really actually used it yet, hopefully after watching your video AGAIN a couple of times i can try and see to make my bias tape 😊❤❤

[@rsislandcrafts]

You can do It! Sometimes It takes a few tries to get It to work. Maybe try with your largest size first so you can get a feel for It.

[@EnlightenedFlamingo]

This looks like the same set I purchased. I haven't tried it yet, I keep meaning to watch a video to make sure I do it right. So, thanks for sharing!

[@bandanarathore]

Thank you so much for this detailed video. I recently got my hands on this kit and this video is so helpful.

[@rsislandcrafts]

You’re very welcome. I’m glad It was helpful.

[@jobarger6082]

Thanks for all the details & tips. Can’t tell you how many utubes I watch. Did even tell you how wide to cut fabric. The instructions doesn’t give that information either. Wasted a few hours until I found your. Great advice.

[@rsislandcrafts]

I’m glad my video was helpful. Thank you for watching.

[@prosperity.]

Best video on Bias tape makers 👍🏼You answered and demonstrated all my questions, especially the finished size of each tool.. Thank you ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️❤️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@rsislandcrafts]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@user-zs1wp8ik8u]

Very thorough instructions

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you 🦩

[@wendyfay16]

TIP: I use a small hair flat iron for small sewing projects .... it also works really well on ruffles, or other fiddly bits and pieces. It's PERFECT for ironing bias strips, especially the little/narrow strips that are difficult to iron. It also comes in handy for stabiliser, particularly on smaller facings .... Actually, I quite often find that I don't even need to get my iron out when I'm just doing small gift projects. It's also fabulous for ironing ribbons for little girls hair ribbons.... as long as they aren't nylon or polyester. Test before using on a new fabric or ribbon. I was making tie-backs for some drapes that I'd made when the idea just popped into my head. I was extra pleased because I found it too small for me to use on my hair without burning myself! I so love to come up with original ideas to reuse items for things totally out of their initial inventor's mind. I hadn't understood the reason for needing to iron as I was sewing until watching a KZbin video ... as it was explained to me that it's basically 'setting' the stitches into the fabric ... and to PRESS it down, as opposed to Ironing by moving the iron around the seams, as opposed to moving the iron around the fabric without lifting it up & down, especially when sewing curves, etc. I also l.earnt from that Aussie sewer just what, and how handy an 'ironing ham' is when sewing, once again, especially for shoulder or other curved seams. I remember being taught at school that creases in the sleeves and the top of the back of a shirt were the signs of a bad ironer ... so I smile when I hear the younger generations say that they don't even own an iron, let alone know how to use them! I spent a few years growing up in Penang when I was a child, and I watched our house lady ironing with such a very heavy contraption that I doubt I'd even be able to lift one today! She also used to wash the clothes on a particular part of the back concrete path! I'm sure that she'd have probably used a washboard of some sort, but our white, starched & pleated school uniforms were always immaculate, as were our school dresses that due to the climate, were only ever worn once. It's just occurred to me that the round tongs would be great for gift-wrapping, or curling ribbons for little girls pony-tails too. That's just brought Shirley Temple to mind, with her adorable ringlets, and the rags in her hair to make them. :) My flat iron was a 'freebie' or at most, $5 when I was buying a wallet & handbag .... of all places to receive a flat iron! lol It's actually rather amazing the number of times it's come in handy for small things around the house. Thanks for the tip about the spray starch! I paid around US$10 for each of my bias makers like your 'new' ones, about 12 - 14 years ago here in Australia ... however they didn't even come with instructions. I'd certainly be using a maker if I were to attempt to use the very narrow strips, especially as I have severe tremors. That's another reason that my little iron comes in handy~! :)

[@rsislandcrafts]

I’ve seen people use the flat iron for the girls ribbons. It’s a great tip to use on smaller projects like these bias strips. Thanks for sharing!

[@bookbeing]

Brilliant idea☺️. I'd like to see a demo clip on this tool use in sewing too.

[@barbarafuhrman7395]

Any sewing room tips make for a mesure of success in the sewing room ❤❤❤

[@rsislandcrafts]

I’m not sure exactly what you’re looking for but for me having my most used items nearby is helpful. I like a tidy organized space. I clean my sewing table at the end of the day so that I can start sewing right away the next day. I find paying attention to how you do things and what you use most often is helpful. I sort my scraps by color and not size. I reach for a red fabric before I look for a 5” square. Then make your room or space work for you. I hope that helps.

[@unawatson1703]

Thank you for this tutorial I’m very new to sewing I have just purchased this set and you have been a godsend on how to use it especially the tip on starch before starting and to shape the end for an easier start

[@rsislandcrafts]

You are so welcome! I’m glad It was helpful.

[@mrslesalee]

Great idea to add spray starch. Thank you

[@rsislandcrafts]

You’re welcome. 🦩

[@sherryannjames9075]

🎉 love how you explain how to use. Recently bought a set and was struggling with it. Nice job. Thank you 👍

[@rsislandcrafts]

Glad it was helpful!

[@loism7453]

Very good tips. Thank you again for ironing out the problems first.

[@user-rz6po3pw4d]

Thanks. Answered questions I had. Just got my kit. Have used an older version few years ago. Now I am going to check out the palm iron.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Glad I could help! The palm iron comes in handy often for me.

[@Chris-lc4bo]

Just watched your video and I have to agree with another commenter, great job in actually telling how wide the fabric needs to be and starching the fabric. I was ready to go back to the old way. Thanks so much.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Glad it was helpful!

[@tinastiner4329]

I just got mine Thank you for all your help on how to use it now I can start using it 😊😁

[@lauraruthruff4741]

I'm so glad you put this video together... You answered all my questions and I was able to see exactly how to use these. Thanks Robin!!

[@elaineadair]

This is such an amazing, simple tool. I don't have exactly the one shown but was thrilled to make SOGrain strips to cover QAYG strips - they are perfect and so cute. It even folded well where I had to make a seam with a bit of repressing. No finger burning at all. This is so easy and fun to use I am going to invent new reasons to make strips. .

[@rsislandcrafts]

It is nice to have perfectly even strips when covering QAYG blocks. The bias tape maker also makes perfect skinny stems for appliqué flowers.

[@xoombug830]

This is definitely the best video on how to use bias tape makers. Thanks!

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you so much. I’m glad It was helpful

[@molliedove1]

Thank you so much, I didn’t have any instruction that came with mine😊

[@rsislandcrafts]

Glad I could help!

[@sonyajones3624]

Thanks for showing me how to use them. I have had them for awhile and could not figure ot all out. Thanks again and have a great day. Hugs

[@gcarney196]

Excellent tutorial concise, easy to follow and clear and distinctive pronounciation.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you so much 🦩

[@l.williams-hunte6321]

Thank you so much for creating this video! I bought the same kit last week, and the instructions were useless for people like me (non sewist). I can now go back and try to use it again, now I have the knowledge. Kudos to you!

[@rsislandcrafts]

🦩

[@TACSmom]

I sew and still felt like the instructions were useless.

[@bigron8308]

Thank you for sharing. Never forget the difference you make to others x

[@rsislandcrafts]

🦩

[@globalhikingcr]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video 🌸 I just purchased this same kit for my husband, and your video has been really useful 👍🏼

[@martinjevan2296]

Great video. So easy to follow. Thank you

[@flickster69]

Thank you for doing this Robin....I've bought these and gave up but watching you I'll give it another go

[@michelleseager9782]

So glad you made this! I just bought a set, and have never used any of these!

[@deidrapowell8762]

Excellent instructional video ❤😊

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thanks so much!

[@kathydavis6048]

Thank you. I have had this set for awhile, but didn't use it until today. This will be a money saver for sure.

[@idareandevers9211]

I've had this tool for years today I take it out but need help looking at you working with them gave me courage to work with them. Thanks I need this morning.

[@rsislandcrafts]

It’s one of those tools that I need a refresher course on occasionally. I’m happy that my video helped a bit. You got this.

[@sandracedar368]

An oldy video but definitely a goody! THANK YOU🤗

[@rsislandcrafts]

You’re welcome. 🦩

[@okirp3613]

Thank you for this tutorial.

[@rsislandcrafts]

You are welcome!

[@AnointedSong]

Thank you for sharing. This was very informative for me.

[@susannes2806]

Great video, thanks for sharing!

[@jeritracy9709]

Makes sense now. Thank you!

[@CynthiaEleBezy]

Thank you for showing how to use this thing. I've had one for years and couldn't figure how to work it.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Glad I could help! It’s irritating when tools do not include any directions.

[@melodymills5432]

Just received a bias tape maker today and had no clue how to use it. How wonderful to see your video. Thank you so much for the clear and concise directions.

[@sandisewitall1667]

Great Help. I couldn't figure out how wide to cut the fabric in the instructions that came with my tape maker gadget. You have a clear and understandable speaking style. I picked up a couple more tips from you as well. TY

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you so much. Please have a look around my channel. There might be other videos that interest you. Happy Sewing!! ✂️✂️✂️

[@madhavidharankar]

Thank u for this video. I was struggling to use the instrument bought. Now shall be able to use it.

[@rsislandcrafts]

I’m glad my video was helpful. For such a simple little tool It sure can be confusing. 😜

[@teresanguessan5408]

Absolutely brilliant! I usually buy ready made bias binding or make it by hand but I want to bind all the seams in a coat I’m making and need over 20 metres. So I bought the same kit. The tips for using starch and a palm iron are genius as I’m using rather slippery lining fabric to make the binding. You’ve just saved me a lot of work. Thank you so much.

[@rsislandcrafts]

I’m so glad my video was helpful. Happy sewing.

[@bookbeing]

What a cool set of sewing tools! It's sew 😉 informative too!

[@rsislandcrafts]

🦩

[@lisadegen5158]

Thanks for this tutorial, it really helped me and your top tip of starching the fabric first! 😊

[@rsislandcrafts]

Glad it was helpful!

[@hallodoob]

Thank you for an excellent tutorial for a newbee. Answered all my questions and made the project less daunting.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you. I’m glad my video was helpful.

[@Kitkat-mn5ud]

Thank you for demoing this

[@rsislandcrafts]

You’re very welcome. 🦩

[@loverrlee]

Great tips! I’m convinced and I’m buying this kit! Thank you!

[@rsislandcrafts]

🦩

[@beckywilson7777]

I can really see the value of this tool for appliqué stems, or for making bag straps. Thanks for the demo!

[@rsislandcrafts]

I agree. It would be very helpful for appliquéd stems.

[@shireetropix6360]

​@@rsislandcrafts If you don't mind the bulk, use the Quilt in a Day method of placing the raw edge of folded fabric (double width required then folded lengthwise to correct size) 1/4" to the RIGHT of the drawn line. Stitch down on machine with 1/4" seam. Press stem towards the right to cover and then stitch in place by hand. Machine stitching is completely covered, hand stitching time is cut in half and the stem sits nicely above the fabric with a little 3D texture.

[@shireetropix6360]

If you don't mind the bulk, use the Quilt in a Day method of placing the raw edge of folded fabric (double width required then folded lengthwise to correct size) 1/4" to the RIGHT of the drawn line. Stitch down on machine with 1/4" seam. Press stem towards the right to cover and then stitch in place by hand. Machine stitching is completely covered, hand stitching time is cut in half and the stem sits nicely above the fabric with a little 3D texture.

[@barbbraun543]

The best tutorial I ever listened to. Great job!

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you so much 🦩

[@McCreaFamilyHomestead]

❤️❤️ I just got this set yesterday and was scratching my head looking at it lol. Thank goodness for KZbin and your video. Thank you!!❤️❤️

[@rsislandcrafts]

I’m so glad you found my video helpful. It’s so frustrating when a tool doesn’t come with instructions.

[@darlenec2500]

Thank you for this video! I ordered these. Now it’s great to have a video on how to use them! 👏👍

[@rsislandcrafts]

You’re welcome. Have fun with your new bias maker.

[@valalvarez7384]

Thank you very much for sharing. You gave me the details I needed to use my bias maker tools.

[@rsislandcrafts]

I’m glad I could help.

[@ediedarleneedgmon5301]

I just got mine in the mail today!! I’m AWFUL at binding, so thank you for the tutorial!!!!!

[@aok1951]

First class video - so well explained. Much appreciated. Thank you.

[@rsislandcrafts]

You're very welcome!

[@rosemarie7945]

Thank you for this video. 👍, it really works.

[@nanamjbri]

I bought that same set you have from Amazon too a couple weeks ago .... I haven’t used mine yet but I can’t wait to try it

[@susanzapletal5299]

You are a very good teacher and use the correct terminology which is very useful. Thank you for the great tutorial.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you 🦩

[@jesspeak7543]

Thank you for such a great tutorial, I found this after I struggled with my tape maker.❤

[@rsislandcrafts]

You are so welcome!

[@desdes5622]

Thank you so much for doing this video! You explained clearly everything I had a question about and more :)

[@rsislandcrafts]

Wonderful. I’m glad my video was helpful.

[@joernjoanlindenau421]

Excellent description!

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thanks 🦩

[@pokeyrella]

I got this set from a friend for my birthday a few years ago, but didn’t know how to use it!! Your video was the best I came across, that shows all the measurements I need to try them👏🏻👏🏻🤗💖

[@fortierdawn]

Great video. Very helpful. Thanks for sharing.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thanks for watching!

[@gailmartinez830]

Thanks for doing this.. I was so confused before..great video and how you explained this ❤️

[@rsislandcrafts]

You’re welcome. I’m glad It helped.

[@sanymatos]

Thanks!! Very good video, now I'm gonna look for How I starch my fabric to make this process easier

[@rsislandcrafts]

Glad it was helpful!

[@sanymatos]

@@rsislandcrafts It worked like a charm, thanks again for this great tip, made the job very very much easier and pleasant

[@rsislandcrafts]

@@sanymatos That’s terrific. It really annoys me when there’s no directions with a tool and I struggle to use It easily. Tools should make our sewing easier not stressful.

[@karenk7744]

Thank you! I couldn't quit get mine to come out right and your tips really helped. I also appreciated the explanation about the measurements for each tool.

[@rsislandcrafts]

You’re welcome 🦩

[@suesmith5033]

I bought the 1/4 and 1/2 . I find those are the sizes I use for applique which is all I use them for. I do enjoy using them.

[@betsypfendler8388]

Best video. Thanks so much. You are a great teacher.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you. You’re very sweet.

[@nbks6w8]

Excellent instruction!! Thank you!!!

[@rsislandcrafts]

🦩

[@sherrilltaylor1801]

Your video is so helpful, I ordered my Bias Tape maker and it had no instructions at all. Thanks so much for your video !!!

[@rsislandcrafts]

I’m always shocked with how many things no longer come with directions.

[@heyBrownBerry]

This was i credibly helpful!! I have a set just like this and you made the process of trying this for the first time so doable!! Thank you SO MUCH

[@rsislandcrafts]

Wonderful! You’re very welcome. Happy sewing!!

[@glendasmoot2430]

I used mine for the first time today, it is great! Would highly recommend to everyone!

[@glendasmoot2430]

It is exactly like the video shows

[@rsislandcrafts]

They are a great tool to have in our craft room. Useful for many projects

[@mandiquinton7067]

Thanks for the video, I have had these little critters in the desk drawer for ages being a bit daunted in how I would use them. You have answered my questions and added some tips. again thank you

[@rsislandcrafts]

I’m glad my video was a helpful. I think many of us have had these just sitting in a drawer waiting for us to figure out what to do with them.

[@arriettysbags]

I love mine, I use them for thin bag straps and ties, also the skinny one is great for using in the string bags as pulls. For people who don't have a tiny iron, I found the best way, is to hold the iron (on steam) tipped up at an angle, so when the tape comes through it has time to settle without the gap getting too big. then lower the iron slightly moving it forward and pulling on the handle. No pins needed as the iron holds it onto the table. Watch the steam the handle is important or you'll burn your fingers. I do 60" long straps with this method. Great for making tabs too. :)

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you for the tips. Making drawstring pulls would be much easier with these.

[@amariiah]

I haven’t used these but they could be used to make double sided straps and key chains and lanyard.

[@lorrainekhan6886]

Thank you for your tutorial as I was wondering how to make the bias. Great video 👍👍👍

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you Lorraine 🦩🦩🦩

[@maureenhobley4482]

Thank you. Received 5 bias makers in Aug. And no instructions. $17. Inc. Shipping from wish. Already had clips and sewing foot. I thought you sewed and made tape at same time. Thought i had a great idea of making tape by feeding fabric and ironing. Worked but felt it should be better. Found your video and Voila! Easy as can be. All you tips made it neater and quick. This little old lady learns sonething new every day.

[@rsislandcrafts]

I’m so happy my tips helped

[@SparkyOne549]

Thanks! I was given a set that has no information. This video helps a lot. I use interfacing on the wrong side for straps.

[@rsislandcrafts]

Glad it helped!

[@towhomitmayconcern1531]

Love your tutorials!

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you so much 🦩

[@montraclements6988]

Love it!

[@misstorresivette]

Very detailed. Thank you.

[@rsislandcrafts]

🦩

[@StitchAround]

Wonderful! I’ve never used one and you did a wonderful job going over all the tiny details that made it work well for me the first time I tried it. Especially the use of starch on the smaller widths. Thank you! Thank you! 😁😁

[@rsislandcrafts]

Wonderful!! I’m glad you such terrific results. Thank you 🦩

[@rhondaadams7304]

Very helpful. Thank you!

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you 🦩

[@sewingincolor]

Great Video!!

[@KINGTHEYORKIE]

Great video thank you!!

[@Nursejenpen]

great video. thank you

[@theresaturnbach610]

Great video. Thanks !

[@rsislandcrafts]

Thank you 🦩

[@lesa6399]

Bought a kit without the foot when I started mask making & I LOVE it! One of my best purchases EVER!!! Thanks for the video! Also it was $20 on Amazon

[@marybuchholz6186]

Very informative Robin. Hope you are doing well.

[@yvonneprimeau5475]

Great tips ! Thank you.

[@rsislandcrafts]

🦩