Using bias cut fabric strips

Strips of bias-cut fabric can be used for a variety of sewing and crafting projects. The bias cut creates a stretchy and flexible edge, making it useful for projects that require curves or drape. 

Here are some ideas for what you can do with your bias-cut fabric strips:

1. Bias Tape or Binding:

Bias tape is a versatile trim used to finish edges, especially in garments and quilts. It's great for curves because it can be eased around them without puckering.

Seamwork shares two methods of pressing bias tape strips. The first using regular pins and your ironing board, the second using a bias tape maker. Read about them both here:https://www.seamwork.com/articles/two-ways-to-press-and-fold-bias-tape 

Some sewing machines have attachments or special feet that accept unfolded bias tape and are ideal for creating bias-binding fabric edges. The unfolded tape is fed through the attached bias-tape feeder, positioned precisely on the fabric edge, and held in place securely until it is sewn. It's worth checking your manual or that box of sewing machine feet you have in the back of a drawer to see if you have one!

2. Piping:

Bias-cut fabric strips can be used to make piping, which is often used to add a decorative and structured edge to garments, cushions, or home decor items.

3. Ruffles or Frills:

The stretchiness of bias-cut fabric makes it ideal for creating ruffles or frills that can be attached to clothing, accessories, or even home decor items.

4. Facings:

Bias-cut strips can be used to create facings for necklines, armholes, or any curved edges. They provide a clean finish and stability to the edges of a garment.

5. Appliqué:

Bias-cut strips can be used for appliqué work, adding decorative elements to clothing, quilts, or other fabric items.

6. Quilting:

Bias-cut strips can be used for making intricate quilt patterns, such as the popular "log cabin" design.

7. Chevrons or Herringbone Patterns:

Bias-cut strips can be used to create intricate patterns like chevrons or herringbone designs.

8. Headbands or Hair Accessories:

You can create headbands, hair ties, or other accessories by folding and sewing the strips.

9. Weaving or Braiding:

You can weave or braid bias-cut strips together to create interesting textures or patterns for projects like rugs, placemats, or even clothing.

10. Fabric Flowers:

Bias-cut strips can be gathered or folded into petals to create fabric flowers for embellishing clothing, accessories, or home decor.

11. Belts, Straps or Drawstrings:

Bias-cut strips can be used to create belts, straps or drawstrings for clothing or bags.

12. Gathering or Shirring:

You can use bias-cut strips to create gathers or shirring on garments, which can add texture and interest.

Remember, the stretch and flexibility of bias-cut fabric make it particularly useful for projects with curves, so keep that in mind when selecting a project. Additionally, using contrasting or complementary colors and patterns can add extra visual interest to your creations.