When most of us think of our essential sewing supplies, it's usually thread, fabric and zips that spring to mind. Bias binding often comes somewhere further down the list. Furthermore, there is one specific type of bias binding that deserves a little more attention and that is double fold bias binding.
We’ve sold a range bias binding since the very beginning, back in 2010, and it remains one of our most popular trim ranges. In fact, when Monica, owner of Frumble, was designing and sewing together pieces to sell, double fold bias binding was probably the trim she reached for more than anything else.
So what makes it so useful?
What Is Double Fold Bias Binding?
Double fold bias binding starts life much like standard single fold bias binding. The fabric is cut on the bias (at a 45-degree angle to the weave), allowing it to curve smoothly around edges and corners.
The difference is that double fold bias binding has an additional fold down the centre. This means it arrives ready to wrap around the raw edge of your project, creating a neat and durable finish with minimal effort.
Our most popular size is 12mm double fold bias binding. When opened out, it measures approximately 25mm (1 inch) wide before being folded into its finished form.
Why Sewists Love It
One of the biggest advantages of double fold bias binding is how quickly it can produce a professional-looking finish.
Rather than turning and hemming fabric edges, double fold bias binding encloses the raw edge completely. This helps prevent fraying while adding strength and a decorative finish at the same time.
It’s particularly useful on projects with long edges, curves or awkward shapes where a traditional hem can be more time-consuming.
Perfect for Bunting
If you’ve ever made bunting, you’ll understand why double fold bias binding has become a favourite.
The folded centre acts as a ready-made channel. Simply tuck the pennants inside the double fold and secure with a simple stitch. This creates strong, attractive bunting with far less effort than making your own binding from scratch.
For larger bunting projects, many customers prefer our 25 metre reels, while smaller projects are often perfectly suited to our 5 metre rolls.
Ideal for Aprons and Placemats
Double fold bias binding is also a fantastic choice for aprons, placemats and table runners.
These projects often have long exposed edges that need protecting from wear and repeated washing. Double fold bias binding creates a durable border while allowing you to introduce a contrasting colour or coordinate with your chosen fabric.
A bright binding can completely transform a simple project.
Great for Clothing
Many garment makers use double fold bias binding around armholes, necklines and curved edges.
Because the fabric is cut on the bias, it naturally follows curves more easily than straight-cut fabric strips. This helps create a smoother finish, particularly on lightweight cottons and dressmaking fabrics.
A Huge Choice of Colours
One reason sewists often return to double fold bias binding is the ability to add colour and contrast to a project.
At Frumble Fabrics, we stock around 60 colours of double fold bias binding, giving plenty of options whether you’re looking for an exact match or a contrasting feature.
Sometimes the binding disappears into the project. Other times it becomes a design feature in its own right.
The Sewing Trim More People Should Discover
Double fold bias binding may not receive as much attention as some other sewing supplies, but its versatility makes it one of the most useful trims available.
From bunting and aprons to placemats and clothing, it offers a quick, neat and professional finish that can save time while improving the appearance of a project.
If you’ve never tried double fold bias binding before, it might just become your new favourite sewing essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between single fold and double fold bias binding?
Single fold bias binding has the raw edges folded in towards the centre, creating a flat strip that is usually sewn to one side of a project before being folded over and stitched again.
Double fold bias binding has an additional fold down the centre, allowing it to wrap around the raw edge of fabric straight away. This makes it quicker and easier to apply in many situations.
Single fold bias binding is often used for finishing necklines and armholes, while double fold bias binding is particularly popular for bunting, aprons, placemats, table runners and many other projects where a neat enclosed edge is required.
What size double fold bias binding should I use?
The most popular size is 12mm double fold bias binding. When opened out, it measures approximately 25mm (1 inch) wide and is suitable for a huge range of sewing projects.
This size works particularly well for bunting, aprons, placemats, table runners, bags and many clothing projects.
For most sewists, 12mm double fold bias binding is a great all-round choice and is often the first size we recommend.
How much bias binding do I need for bunting?
The amount of bias binding required depends on the size of your bunting and how many flags you are making.
As a rough guide, a typical length of bunting measuring around 2.5 metres will often require approximately 3 to 4 metres of double fold bias binding. This allows for the flags themselves plus some extra length at each end for hanging.
For larger projects or party decorations, many sewists find it more economical to use 25 metre reels, while smaller projects can often be completed using a 5 metre roll.
Can double fold bias binding be used on clothing?
Yes. Double fold bias binding can be used on many clothing projects and is particularly useful for finishing curved edges such as necklines and armholes.
Because the fabric is cut on the bias, it naturally follows curves more smoothly than straight-cut fabric strips. This helps create a neat and professional-looking finish.
Many dressmakers also use double fold bias binding as a decorative feature, choosing contrasting colours to add definition and interest to a garment.
0 comments