LuvQuiltin

I got the opportunity to shop a bit yesterday and was looking at the Simplicity Bias Tape Maker. I had always thought about getting one since I make so many quilts. I thought it might be a time saver for me and prevent me from frying my fingers from time to time. So, being the little investigator that I am, I'm reading reviews of the device and watching videos of how to use it and noticed that the fabric folds to the center on both sides. When I make binding for my quilts I fold it in half so there is only one fold and stitch the side that is not folded to the edge of my quilt. I'm now perplexed.....not a good thing and thought I'd post here and see if I've always been doing my quilt bindings wrong? Do you fold your binding strips in half and attach? or do you fold both sides inward? If I've been doing my bindings the correct way, then at this point I'm not seeing an advantage to the bias tape maker. Gee, that would mean if I'm not buying one I should be able to take the money I would have spent and spend it on something else? lol........Joann's has them online onsale right now........in case anyone else may be interested. So, what say you? Single fold? or double fold?

lots2do

I was taught to do a double fold the same way you do. I thought about that tape maker but noticed the same thing. Even on sale, I'm afraid it would become a seldom used gadget for me.

Nancy S.

I also fold in half the way you 2 do. It is stronger from what I can see. If you fold in the center than there is only one layer of fabric but if you fold in half than you have 2 layers to wear out.

LuvQuiltin

Well, I'm glad to hear others fold it as I do. Looks like I'll be passing on the machine unless it has a way of doing it in half and that doesn't seem likely.

sharkee

I had the bias tape maker and 1 day after the warranty was up it quit working and I can't get anyone to even return an email as to what might be wrong with it. I have since starting doing my binding the way you do and like it much better and it seems stronger

BellaBoo

The tip that folds the 2 1/2" strip for the machine, folds it in half, two raw edges on one side, fold on the other. I have used mine constantly at guild and at home and I've had it since it was available to buy. So far no problems. Here is the number that is on my paperwork to call Simplicity.

1-888-588-2700

bakermom

It's called the quilt binding tip, I think it is grey. I use it all the time.

Chigger Holler Quilter

Does it come with the the binder or do you have to purchase seperately? BTW the Ben Franklin store in Monroe, WA has these for $60.

CarrieAnne

I thought of buying one too, but I dont want to spend much if I wont use it!

oatw13

You have to purchase the quilt binding tip separately. It comes with a bias tape tip, used to make bias tape. This is often used when sewing apparel.

I have one and I use it when making binding for large quilts. I have never had any problems with it.

I wouldn't pay full price for it, but if you can get a deal and have room to store it, I think it is worth it.