Understanding Bias Tape Sizes For Sewing
- 14 hours ago
- 3 min read
Bias tape comes in a range of sizes to meet the needs of many different sewing projects. If you're unsure which size is right for your project (or even what the sizes mean!), we’re here to help. Keep reading to learn about bias tape sizing, and check out our downloadable Bias Tape Size Chart at the bottom of this post for a closer look at the options. Once you’ve chosen a size, explore high-quality bias tapes and more at WAWAK.
HOW IS BIAS TAPE MEASURED?
Whether you're shopping for bias tape or making your own, understanding how bias tape is measured is key to choosing the right size for your project. Bias tape consists of a strip of fabric folded lengthwise—once for single-fold tape and twice for double-fold tape. (For more, see our previous post, "What Is Bias Tape?")
The key point to remember is that bias tape sizes almost always refer to the width of the finished, folded tape, not the width of the entire fabric strip. For example, a 1/2"single-fold tape would measure 1/2" across from folded edge to folded edge. Don't forget, bias tape also comes in two styles. Since bias tapes are sized according to the folded measurement, single and double-fold sizes are very different. So, if you're purchasing premade bias tape, make sure you're looking for the right style!
If you're making your own bias tape, keep in mind that this means you'll need to cut your fabric strips wider than your desired size to leave room for the folds. As a rule of thumb, you can double your desired bias tape size for single-fold tape, or quadruple it to make double-fold tape.
For more detailed measurements of both single and double-fold bias tapes, see our handy size chart at the bottom of this page.
BIAS TAPE SIZES
Single-Fold Bias Tape Sizes
Single-fold bias tape is a strip of bias-cut fabric that's folded lengthwise down both long sides. It's most commonly used to create decorative facings or trims visible on one side of an edge. It can also be used to make ties, drawstrings, casings and more. 1/2" single-fold tape is considered the "standard" size, but it's also available in wide (7/8") or extra-wide (1") widths.
Double-Fold Bias Tape Sizes
Double-fold bias tape is the same as single-fold tape, but with an additional lengthwise fold down the center. It's often used to encase a raw edge, such as a hem or quilt edge, for a clean finish. Wider tapes are ideal for binding thick items like quilts and blankets, whereas narrower tapes are excellent for lighter items like hems, necklines or piping.
Bias Tape Maker Sizes
If you're making your own bias tape, you can use a bias tape maker to help fold your own tape quickly and neatly. For bias tape makers, choose the bias tape maker size that corresponds to your desired single-fold tape size, even if you're making double-fold tape. (Bias tape makers only complete the first fold; if desired, you can fold your single-fold tape in half to make double-fold tape. Remember, the finished double-fold width will be half of the single-fold width.) Various bias tape maker sizes are available for common tape widths.
To learn more about making bias tape, see our previous post, "How To Make Bias Tape."
BIAS TAPE SIZE CHART
Print or download our free bias tape size chart below to save it for your reference. When printed on 8.5"x 11" paper, this chart features actual-size images of various bias tapes so you can easily compare widths to decide what's best for your project. Looking for high-quality bias tape? Shop for bias tape and many more sewing notions at WAWAK.
Use this handy chart to compare single-fold and double-fold bias tape sizes.
Print or download our Bias Tape Sizing Chart for detailed measurements of various bias tape sizes, plus to-scale images.
