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Purchase a Tool
In order to make single fold bias tape, which actually has one fold on either side of a strip, without suffering from burned fingers or inexact folds, several tools have been patented to aid the process. The most familiar is the Clover bias tape maker, which comes in various widths so that the resulting tape will be exactly right for the project. The tool may be purchased individually in sewing supply stores or from catalogs, or it may also be found in sets combining commonly used sizes.
Other Equipment Needed
The home sewer may use fabric which matches or contrasts with the project. Because bias tape can be used decoratively, choices of fabrics could be critical. In addition to fabric and the tape maker tool, a pair of sharp scissors or a rotary cutter, a T-square or clear plastic ruler, and a cutting mat are all recommended. To finish the tape, a steam iron and ironing board are needed.
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Cutting on the Bias
Because bias-cut fabric is somewhat stretchy, it is ideal for binding both straight edges and curves. To find the bias, lay a square of fabric on a cutting mat, cut edges on right and left sides. At the top and bottom is a finished edge called the selvedge. Fold one cut side of the fabric up so at the cut edge is aligned with the selvedge. This should result in a folded angle of exactly 45 degrees. That is the bias of the fabric, and the fold will serve as a guide for cutting as many strips as needed. Instructions with the bias tool will suggest widths for the strips. Mark the strips off by measuring from the fold and marking with chalk, pencil or marking pen. Cut the strips along the marked lines.
Sew the Strips Together
If more than a few inches of bias binding are needed, the cut strips have to be joined. Do this by placing the ends of the strips, right sides together, at right angles to each other. The seam should be 1/4 inch wide. Trim off the little triangles that result on either side of the seam. The product is a continuous bias strip that needs to be pressed with the seams open.
Press the Strip
Thread the end of the bias strip through the wide opening at the top of the tape maker tool. Note that the tool causes the sides of the strip to fold toward each other. Using a steam iron at the appropriate temperature for the fabric, press the bias as it emerges from the tool. Take care to press the folds neatly, keeping them as even as possible. The single fold bias tape is ready to be applied.