The Bias Tape/Binding Calculator helps you determine the amount of fabric needed to make bias tape or binding. This is particularly useful when working on sewing projects where the edges of fabric need to be finished with bias tape or binding. Whether you’re creating single-fold or double-fold bias tape, this calculator provides an accurate measurement of how much fabric you need, eliminating guesswork and saving you time and materials.
Formula of Bias Tape/Binding Calculator
To calculate the amount of bias tape or binding required, follow these steps:
- Total Edge Length (L): Measure the total length of all the edges that need binding. This is the sum of all the edges that will be covered with the bias tape.
- Fabric Strip Width (Ws):
- For single-fold bias tape: Ws = 2 * Wf
- For double-fold bias tape: Ws = 4 * Wf
- Here, Wf represents the width of the finished binding.
- Total Fabric Area (A): Calculate the total fabric area using the formula:
- A = L * Ws
- Number of Strips: Determine how many strips of fabric you need:
- Number of Strips = F_width / Ws
- Here, F_width is the width of your fabric from selvage to selvage.
- Total Bias Tape Length: Calculate the total length of the bias tape:
- Total Bias Tape Length = Number of Strips * F_length
- F_length is the length of each strip.
This method ensures that you accurately calculate the amount of fabric needed for your bias tape or binding.
Table of Common Bias Tape Requirements
For quick reference, the following table provides general bias tape or binding needs based on common edge lengths and strip widths:
| Total Edge Length (L) | Fabric Strip Width (Ws) | Number of Strips | Total Bias Tape Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 inches | 2 inches | 5 | 250 inches |
| 75 inches | 2.5 inches | 4 | 300 inches |
| 100 inches | 3 inches | 6 | 600 inches |
| 150 inches | 4 inches | 8 | 1200 inches |
This table helps you quickly estimate the amount of bias tape needed without recalculating each time.
Example of Bias Tape/Binding Calculator
Let’s consider a practical example to understand how the Bias Tape/Binding Calculator works.
Scenario: You need to bind the edges of a quilt that has a total edge length of 200 inches. You decide to use double-fold bias tape, and you want the finished width of the binding to be 0.5 inches.
- Total Edge Length (L): 200 inches.
- Fabric Strip Width (Ws): For double-fold bias tape, Ws = 4 * Wf = 4 * 0.5 = 2 inches.
- Total Fabric Area (A): A = L * Ws = 200 inches * 2 inches = 400 square inches.
- Number of Strips: Assume the fabric width (F_width) is 40 inches, then:
- Number of Strips = F_width / Ws = 40 inches / 2 inches = 20 strips.
- Total Bias Tape Length: Assume each strip is 10 inches long (F_length), then:
- Total Bias Tape Length = Number of Strips * F_length = 20 strips * 10 inches = 200 inches.
You would need 200 inches of fabric strip to make your bias tape, which is exactly what is required to cover the 200-inch edge.
Most Common FAQs
Single-fold bias tape is usually used for projects where the tape will be sewn into a seam and then folded over the raw edge to finish it. Double-fold bias tape is often used when the tape needs to fully encase a raw edge or for projects that require a more durable edge finish.
The best fabric for making bias tape is usually lightweight and has a bit of stretch, such as cotton or cotton blends. Fabrics with a bit of stretch work well because they can easily curve around edges without creating puckers.
Yes, you can make bias tape without a calculator, but using one ensures accuracy and helps you avoid cutting too little or too much fabric. This can save time and reduce fabric waste, especially for larger projects.