How many of you use a bias tape maker? I'm thinking of getting one but not sure. What would be the best size to get? Right now I'm going to be making charity quilts 50X60. I'm thinking about the 1". I had thought about buying pre-made but no store close enough. Thought maybe this would be better, that way I could use matching fabric. All info would be appreciated.

Thanks, Kris

I have every size they make in the clover brand. I use them all the time not just for quilting. The aprons I make, potholders, table runners, purses and many many other things too numerous to list. You will never regret buying them.
The bias you buy in the solid colors don't hold a candle to the coordinating or matching fabric bias edges. I vote for go for it! :D

Thanks Redgarnet, I think I just might do ahead and do it. I also need a cone holder. I figure if I'm going to do this I might as well get everything I need :lol: I'm also getting my Sister back into this. She reads these boards and learning new things she didn't know. (Both of us are newbies) If I can't figure something out maybe she can!

BTW I'm in Pahrump

Kris

Question on this if I may??
Do you use this for the binding of your quilts then??
Thanks!
Melinda

In a different thread, someone pointed out that the fabric works best if starched BEFORE running it through the bias maker. I have only used the bias bars (frustrating) and plan to give my bias maker another try with starched fabric.

Hey!! Hi Dingle in pahrump! I am wondering do you ever come into reno for shopping? The Mill End has them all for a much better price than I could find anywhere. They are still on kietzke where they have been for many years. A wonderful place to find inexpensive fabric too.

Your right, if you think you are going to be sewing for a long time might as well make it easier on yourself and buy the good tools. Lucky your sis will share with you, how fun.

Yes Melhuff, I do use the largest one for the big quilts, the middle one for the smaller, and the smallest for things like baby bibs or light weight projects.

My next door neighbor uses the french method that another thread was talking about this morning. It is doubled over fabric sewn on and then turned over to the other side and hand sewn down. I don't think she even uses the bias of the fabric to cut them. Hers always looks great, so it must work.

Madquilter .. I am thinking the bars are used in applique, right? I have them, but I found that if I sew the bias strip fabric together wrong sides together, trim the seam down to an eighth of an inch and press the seam to the back it works just as well, with no turning the tubes.

It's important to use the right size strips for the maker you have. Too wide a strip or too narrow will give you a headache.

I can never make mine work right. will try the starch.

Linda D MI

i use mine all the time too. i have the 1/4, the 1", and the 2".

i use the 1 and 2 inch to make handbag straps except then i cut the fabric on the straight of grain.