Continuous bias tape

[Jennifer D.]

I need to make a great deal of continuous quarter inch bias (based on my pattern 186 inches minimum). Seaming it as I would continuous bias for a binding prevents it from running through a bias tape maker (the seam is too bulky to pass through freely). When I try to cut it by hand and press it the tape gets very wonky and irregular. I know there was an episode showing an easy way to make it, but I can't find it when trying to use the search function. Any suggestions would be welcome!

[Susan B.]

It's in Show 1312. There is a new show list feature that lists techniques by alphabetical order. There are other shows, too, that talk about binding. I like Amanda's technique for continuous binding. It works! I know what you mean about the seams getting stuck in a bias tape maker. I've never been successful with them. As long as you don't stretch the strip, some of the wonkiness with hand cutting won't matter when you fold it. You may be able to work out the irregularities.

Consider, too, if you aren't using it on curves, binding on the straight grain or cross grain works just as well.

[Jennifer D.]

Thank you! Unfortunately there are a number of curves in the pattern so bias is required. I'll give this a shot though!

[Jennifer D.]

I teach this. I put up my slide show as a short video. It doesn't have the cutting instructions or a photo of it. But it will get you right up to the point of applying your scissor and cutting on the line. The beauty is that you only have to sew two seams and only have to cut one time... and you never sew on the bias (you don't have to sew the short ends together either)Yet another guide on tube cut bias binding

[E.M. T.]

Very nice video !! and Blog !! Wonderful reading ! BB method is my favorite way ...easy and fast. Hope you
keep chime-ing in here!

[Susan B.]

So know I think I know your name, Kelly Allen? Excellent slide show, I've bookmarked this because I do it so seldom that I need to look something up every time I need it. This is the same technique taught in show 1312, but I really like your graphics.

[Pamela N.]

Great video - clear and easy to understand
Best Wishes Pam

[Jennifer D.]

Thanks everyone...This bias strip method seems to work much better/faster for wider strips. The quarter inch finish is just so small the tiniest error is amplified and noticible. I finally ended up cutting my own bias pressing bar out of a strip of heat resistant template and after several singed fingers and way too much time at my iron I managed to turn all the edges and come up with a smooth looking quarter inch strip. I definitely don't plan on repeating a similar project any time in the near future though - unless I find a tape maker that can handle seams!

[Susan B.]

For 1/4" or tinier, I've been using Quilters Press Bars. My set is antique, but Karen Kay Buckley sells a set and has a video here:
http://www.karenkaybuckley.com/videos.php
I find them very easy to make if my initial fabric strip is long. They are kind of a pain to get over a join in strips.

There is also a Youtube on Sew Easy metal press bars.

See Suzanne Marshall's show
http://thequiltshow.com/watch/show-list/video/latest/show-203-ribbon-winning-applique
For yet another technique for tiny stems.

I just re-read your post, Jdeluka. What are you making?

[Susan B.]

Susan, You caught me :-)
Thank for the compliments from you and Marilyn.

To cut it very narrow when there is less room for error, I'll put a small short ruler between my fingers on one hand to ensure I keep a constant width on the strip I cut off.
Kelly

[Pamela N.]

I've just ordered a set of KK Buckley's 'perfect stems' after following Susan's link. KKB's perfect circles and ovals are excellent, I'm getting KKB scissors in one of my Christmas presents too. I use the Celtic Design Co. bias bars which I've had for years and I really like. I'll post on the forum how KKB's bars perform. Susan, thank you for all the tips/links that you post here for us.
Best Wishes Pam

[Jennifer D.]

Suehenyon -
Been too busy at work to check the forum recently...I had heard about Karen's bias bars, I have her perfect circles and really like them. I may need to look into ordering a set from my quilt shop. I was making Alex Anderson's Christmas tree pattern - the one with the string of lights around the outside boarder. Shame on me I didn't finish it in time for Christmas this year, but I can't fail to finish it this winter...if my boys will only give me some time alone in my sewing room!

Thank you all again for your help! Hope you had a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!

[Pamela N.]

I have received the KK Buckley bias press bars. They were supposed to be set of 6 but only 4 were in the packet so I am being sent another pack. I haven't used them yet but they look similar to plastic cable ties, I'll let you know how I go on with them and continue to use my trusty old Celtic Design Co bias bars until they arrive. I can't resist a new sewing gadget.
Merry Christmas to all Pam

[Lois B.]

Thanks everyone for the helpful information.