How to Attach Bias Tape to a Curve? – (Easily)

Last Updated on November 2, 2023

Hey y’all, Teresia here! Today, I want to share a valuable sewing technique with you—how to sew double-fold bias tape around a curve and ensure it lays perfectly flat.

How to Attach Bias Tape to a Curve

Highlights:

  • Shape the bias tape to match the curve using steam and an iron, ensuring it conforms perfectly.
  • Secure the bias tape with glass head pins along the curve, preventing stretching and puckering during sewing.
  • Sew along the curve with precision, avoiding tugging or pulling to maintain the shape of the bias tape.
  • Make small clips in the seam allowance if necessary, allowing the fabric to lie flat. Press again for a polished finish.
  • Fold the bias tape over the seam allowance and stitch close to the edge, ensuring a smooth, professional-looking result.

How to attach bias tape to a curve?

How to Attach Bias Tape to a Curve

To attach bias tape to a curve and ensure it lays flat, start by pre-pressing the tape to match the curve shape. Pin it carefully, sew along the curve, clip excess fabric if needed, fold, pin again, and stitch once more for a professional, puckering-free finish.

If you’ve ever struggled with bias tape puckering or standing up awkwardly on curves, you’re in the right place. I’ll walk you through the process step by step, so let’s dive in!

What You’ll Need

  • Double fold bias tape
  • Iron-safe straight pins with glass heads
  • Iron
  • Pressing mat (or ironing board)

Step by step guide

Pre-Press Your Bias Tape

Pre-Press Your Bias Tape
Pre-Press Your Bias Tape

Start by taking your bias tape and pre-pressing it into the shape of the curve you’ll be working with. This step ensures that the bias tape conforms to the curve without puckering. Use steam and your iron to shape the bias tape around the curve gently. Remember, you’re not stretching the tape; you’re molding it into the desired shape.

Pin the Bias Tape

Pin the Bias Tape
Pin the Bias Tape

Once your bias tape is shaped correctly, use the glass head straight pins to secure it onto your fabric. Pinning generously along the curve helps prevent the bias tape from stretching as you sew. Be meticulous with your pinning, ensuring the tape lies flat against the fabric.

Stitch Along the Curve

Stitch Along the Curve
Stitch Along the Curve

Carefully stitch along the curve, following the edge of the bias tape. Take your time and sew accurately, making sure not to pull or tug at the fabric. This step is crucial to maintain the shape of the curve without distorting the bias tape.

Clip and Press

Clip and Press
Clip and Press

After stitching, if you notice any excess fabric within the curve, make small clips along the seam allowance without cutting into the stitches. This allows the fabric to spread out and lie flat. Press the bias tape once more to set the stitches and ensure a clean finish.

Fold and Pin Again

Fold and Pin Again
Fold and Pin Again

Fold the bias tape over the seam allowance and pin it securely in place. This extra step adds stability to the curve and prevents any future puckering. Again, be generous with your pins.

Final Stitch

How to Attach Bias Tape to a Curve

Stitch close to the folded edge of the bias tape, securing it in place. Take your time to sew neatly and evenly. Once you complete this final step, you’ll have a beautifully finished, flat double-fold bias tape around your curve.

Conclusion

And there you have it—a flawless, flat, double-fold bias tape around a curve! By pre-pressing your bias tape and taking your time with pinning and stitching, you can achieve professional-looking results every time. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different curves and fabrics to master this essential sewing skill.

Ask any Question Here!