Lately, I’ve been trying to figure out purposes for a bunch of sewing supplies that I’ve collected. I purchase mixed lots of supplies on eBay, and always get some random stuff that I never have used before mixed in. When searching the interwebs, I couldn’t find straight answers for any of my questions. So, here’s what I’m gonna do. I’m going to list the stuff here on this post, and provide an explanation, all in one place! YES! No more multiple searches!
I also thought that posting this might help out some others asking the same questions. Anyways, here we go!
Bias Tape: Fabric strips of varying widths, with pre-folded edges. Suitable for curved hems, or as a casing. Double-fold type is folded in half (off center) for quick use as binding.
There are three types of bias tapes. They are:
- Single-Fold Bias Tape
- Wide Bias Tape
- Double-Fold Bias Tape
I have all three! I know what I can use the single-fold and double-fold bias tape for. However, I don’t know what I would use the wide bias tape for. hmm… Anyone know what wide bias tape is used for?
This video by Angry Chicken is amazing. For someone not having a clue what bias tape is or how to use it, this video saved my life. I watched it over and over until I realized what the heck I was doing. YAY!
Still lost? Check out:
Bias Tape: What is it and Why? Q & A from About.com
Sewing Tips for Sewing Bias Tape from Denver Fabrics
Simplicity’s tips on Bias Tape
All of them are great resources and will help you fully understand what you’re working with. The Denver Fabrics link is my ultimate fav’.
Seam Binding: A straight and narrow tape (strip of fabric) used for finishing hem edges or a hem to keep fabric from raveling.
It comes in woven or lace form. The woven type is stable, and can also be used to stay seams. Lace has stretch and is ideal for knits.
Hem Facing: A wide, flexible tape cut to the width (approximately 2 inches) most often used for the job. Available in a bias strip with edges pre-folded to the inside and in a more decorative lace construction. These prepackaged hem facings are useful when there is insufficient hem depth for a turned-up hem in a garment or a wish to eliminate bulk in a hem made from a heavy fabric. Bias hem facings can also be used as a wide casing or pressed in half for use as a binding. Both bias and lace types are available in an assortment of colors.
Twill Tape: A woven stable tape used mainly for staying and strengthening seams, especially in tailoring. Usually made of cotton, twill tape comes in black and white, in widths of 1/4. 1/2, 3/4, and 1 inch.
Horsehair Braid: A stiffening made from transparent nylon strands that is used to finish the bottom of hems so as to emphasize the flare of the skirt; most often found on long evening wear. Available in 1/2 and 1 inch widths; wide braid may have a pre-sewed ease thread along one edge.
I hope we’ve all learned something new today 
