Cutting Bias Strips

Bias strips are cut at a 45-degree angle to the crosswise or lengthwise grain of the fabric. Strips cut on the bias will have stretch, which allows them to be used for applique and other applications where curving the strip is required, such as wrapping cord or binding rounded corners and projects. However, bias strips require careful handling to be sure the strips are not stretched out of shape or distorted.

1. Since bias strips are being cut from a square on the straight of grain, it is essential to know the length of continuous bias strips that can be cut from the square. To determine this length, first find the area of the square by multiplying the square's measurement by itself, then divide by the desired width of the strip.

For example, to find the total length of 2 1/2"-wide bias that can be cut from a 12" square, multiply 12" x 12", which equals 144" and then divide 144" by 2 1/2" to equal 57". This formula has been used to fill in the chart below for use as an easy reference.

2. Based on your project, determine the length and width of bias desired. Cut the size square needed along the straight grain referring to your chart. Place the 45-degree line on your ruler along the bottom edge of the square and cut diagonally across the square from corner to corner (Figure A).

3. Being careful not to stretch the edge, place the ruler along the cut edge at the width desired and cut a strip (Figure B).

4. Continue cutting strips, being careful with the bias edges, until the square is completely cut (Figure C).

5. Position and pin strips perpendicular to each other with right sides together. Join the strips with 45-degree diagonal seams for a continuous strip (Figure D1). Trim seams to 1/4", then press seams open and trim dog ears (Figure D2).