Sewing-tutorials   |   How to Make Double Fold Bias Binding from Scrap Fabric (No Tools Needed)

How to Make Double Fold Bias Binding from Scrap Fabric (No Tools Needed)

By a Bug & a Bean | Posted on 2026-01-06

Learn how to make custom double fold bias binding from scrap cotton fabric using just an iron. Easy, beginner-friendly sewing tutorial.

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SCRAPBUSTER SEWING  

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Table of Contents

• Why Make Your Own Double Fold Bias Binding?
• Supplies You’ll Need
• How to Make Double Fold Bias Binding from Scrap Fabric
• Tips for Professional-Looking Bias Binding
• Other Ways to Use These Fabric Strips
• Video Tutorial
• Final Thoughts

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If you have leftover cotton fabric scraps and an iron, you can make your own custom double fold bias binding at home with no specialty tools required. This easy sewing technique is beginner-friendly, budget-conscious, and perfect for using up scraps that might otherwise go unused. In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to create clean, professional-looking double fold bias tape using simple supplies you likely already have in your sewing space.

Why Make Your Own Double Fold Bias Binding?

Making your own bias binding from scrap fabric gives you complete control over color, pattern, and texture. Store-bought bias tape often comes in limited colors, but homemade bias binding allows you to perfectly match your projects. It’s also a great way to reduce waste, save money, and add a handmade touch to sewing projects like quilts, pouches, garments, and accessories.

Supplies You’ll Need

• Scrap cotton fabric (cut into 2-inch-wide strips)
• Iron
• Wool ironing mat or ironing board
• Scissors or rotary cutter

Ironing Tools

Do you have everything you need to get started sewing? Check out our Sewing Essentials Shopping Guide for Beginners for recommendations on the main products you need to complete these tutorials.

That’s it! No bias tape makers or specialty tools required. Cotton fabric works best because it presses cleanly and holds crisp folds.

How to Make Double Fold Bias Binding from Scrap Fabric

Step 1: Cut Your Fabric Strips

Start by cutting your scrap cotton fabric into strips that are 2 inches wide. The length can vary depending on the size of your scraps. While traditional bias tape is cut on the bias, this method works beautifully for many projects using straight-grain cotton scraps.

Step 2: Fold and Press the Center Line

Fold each fabric strip in half lengthwise, matching the long edges together. Press with your iron to create a crisp center crease. This crease will act as a guide for the next folds.

Step 3: Fold the Edges Toward the Center

Open the strip back up. Working one side at a time, fold each long edge inward until it just reaches the center crease you pressed earlier. Press each side well with your iron. Take your time here—clean folds will give your bias binding a polished look.

Step 4: Fold in Half Again and Press

Keeping both edges folded in, fold the strip in half along the original center crease. Press one final time with your iron. You now have finished double fold bias binding that’s ready to use on your sewing projects.

Tips for Professional-Looking Bias Binding

• Use steady heat and steam when pressing for crisp folds
• A wool ironing mat helps retain heat and speeds up pressing
• Trim uneven edges before folding for cleaner results
• Starch can help if your fabric feels soft or slippery

Other Ways to Use These Fabric Strips

These folded fabric strips aren’t just for binding edges. They’re also perfect for making custom keychain loops, bag handles, zipper pulls, and decorative accents. Because they’re made from scrap fabric, you can coordinate them easily with wallets, pouches, and other small sewing projects.

Video Tutorial

You can watch us make this project on TikTok. Follow our tiktok account: @abugandabean for more sewing videos, tutorials, and project ideas!

@abugandabean I like to use up all my scraps from projects. When I have small scraps, I turn them into bias binding. This is what I use to mix and match keychain loops as well. For this example, I cut the scraps to 2 inches wide. In my next video, I use this custom bias binding to make a cute waterproof makeup brush or toothbrush travel bag! Keep your eyes peeled on this video for a special guest cameo! #sewingtiktok #sewingproject #beginnersewing #quicksew #handmadesewing #sewingtutorial #sewingsmallprojects #scrapbusting #sewfast #sewingtips #sewing #sewingtipsandtricks #sewingtips101 #sewingmywayto10k #fyp #craftytiktok #makersoftiktok #abugandabean #sewingtok #easysewing #sewingideas #sewwithme #craftymom #sewingforyoupage #sewinghacks #craftycat ♬ Violin - Poeyinkz

Final Thoughts

Learning how to make double fold bias binding from scrap cotton fabric is a simple skill that opens the door to more creative and sustainable sewing. With just an iron and a few fabric scraps, you can create custom binding that looks beautiful and works perfectly for your projects. This is an easy technique you’ll come back to again and again.