Thursday, March 31, 2011

The Bias Tape Maker

Posted by Strlady at 10:13 AM
With my efforts to do more applique this year comes the need to learn about tools that might make the process a bit smoother.


When I was cutting out my applique pieces for my Love Letter's block I noticed that there were a few 'stems' to be made. I recalled that I had a bias tape maker back from when I thought I might use it (about 10 years ago). I pulled it out and realized that the tool was less than efficient.

So when I had to cut and make the handles on my Petite Fours block I decided to venture out and look for another option...


I discovered an updated version of the bias tape maker that I needed to check out.


As you can see it looks very much like the older model (still available at you local JoAnn's store)


here is the difference.... Notice how after feeding the fabric in the older model, it still comes out 'opened', while the new model is ready to feed to your iron with no tweaking.


Here is another look. See how the mouth of the new version is tight around the fabric,
while the older version feeds it open.


The end result is the same. You still get the bias tape you were aiming for, but the older model requires that your fingers get close and personal with your iron, while the newer version allows you to maintain a respectable distance from the heat.

Needless to say, I love my new bias tape maker, and my fingers do too!

Wondering how I feed the 1" strip through the tape maker?


Well I use my handy dandy stilleto which came courtesy of my favorite Pumpkin Patch.

I love that tool! It not only worked to push that fabric through the bias tape measure, it also helps me feed my fabric through the machine AND it also has helped me fold under the applique handles of my Petite Fours baskets. I don't know what I would do without that darn thing. I love it!

I also got a Pressing Tool with my stilleto which has saved my fingers more than once during this new adventure!

Hurray for new tools!

2 comments on "The Bias Tape Maker"

Anonymous said...

Do you know I have a bias maker and never have taken it out of the package?! Enjoyed the tutorial..makes me want to whip up a vine or two!

bingo~bonnie on May 30, 2011 at 10:40 PM said...

great post - I may have to look for this the next time I'm at JoAnn's as I'm planning on making some basket blocks that have appliqued handles...

Thanks again! Love from Texas! ~bonnie

 

Textile House Copyright © 2009 Girl Music is Designed by Ipietoon Sponsored by Emocutez