How to use bias tape to finish a neckline on a dress or shirt

Summary

The easiest way to finish a neckline with bias tape, start to finish. I pin it on, stitch along the edge, press it to the inside so there are no raw edges, and add one more line of stitching for that clean, finished look.

• Pin the bias tape to the edge, open side facing the neck hole, on the right (cute) side of the garment
• Stitch along that first fold line all the way around, keeping it right along the edge
• Flip it inside out and press the bias tape down to the inside: no more raw edges
• Add a second stitch line for a more finished look

FAQ

How do you finish a neckline with bias tape?

Pin the bias tape to the right (cute) side of the neckline, open side facing the neck hole. Stitch along the first fold all the way around, flip it to the inside and press, then add a second line of stitching for a clean finish.

Do you stretch bias tape around a neckline?

A little. Start pinning at the back and pull the tape gently taut as you go, so it lies flat around the curve.

What seam allowance do I use for bias tape?

I sew at 3/8 in, then trim the extra seam allowance so it doesn't get bulky. Just don't cut into your stitches.

Will there be raw edges?

No. Once you press it to the inside and topstitch it, every raw edge is hidden.

Transcript

Okay, hold on. Bias tape necklines. This is the easiest way. You pin it to the edge with the open side facing the neck hole and on the right side, so the cute side of the garment. And then you're going to stitch all the way down that first little line, keeping it right there along the edge. Again, this is on the outside of what will become your dress. You're going to zoop all the way around. Nice and neat. We love it. It's looking good. This part is so tedious because I want it to be absolutely perfect. I have the straight stitch foot on to really help me focus on staying in that line.

So once you make it all the way around, you are going to take it back over to your ironing board and you are going to do a little pressing. So here it is. I flipped it inside out and I'm pressing down the bias tape onto the inside, all the way around that edge on the inside. So now it has no raw edges essentially. Okay, got it in place. I did one more press and then I added another stitch line right there where you can barely see it. I just feel like that second line makes it look a lot more finished. Thanks for wasting your time with me. Waste more time by liking and subscribing and watching another video.