Bias Tape Widths: 7mm vs 13mm for Binding
By Les Tissées – Curated Fashion Fabrics | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: Comparisons
Compare 7mm and 13mm bias tape for binding edges, trims, and decorative finishes. Learn which width suits your sewing project.
Quick Answer
For most garment binding, 13mm bias tape offers a balanced finish and easier handling, while 7mm is best for delicate trims and lightweight fabrics. Choose based on your project's edge visibility and fabric weight.
Width Matters: Visibility and Handling
The width of bias tape affects how much of the binding shows on the finished edge. A 13mm tape covers more surface area, making it sturdier and easier to handle when wrapping around seams. It also provides a more prominent trim if you want the binding to be a design feature.
A 7mm tape is narrower, so it creates a finer, more subtle edge. This can be ideal for lightweight fabrics where a wider binding might feel bulky or overpower the garment. However, the narrower width can be trickier to fold and stitch accurately, especially for beginners.
Fabric and Care Considerations
The material of the bias tape also plays a role. Poly-cotton blends, like the 13mm and 7mm options, offer durability and easy care, making them suitable for everyday garments. A 100% polyester floral bias tape can add a decorative touch but may behave differently with heat and pressing.
Always test your bias tape on a scrap of your project fabric to see how it handles curves and how the finish looks. This is especially important when working with stretchy or slippery materials.
How to Choose Your Bias Tape Width
- 13mm Bias Tape: Use 13mm bias tape for most garment binding, especially on medium-weight fabrics like cotton, linen, or quilting cotton. It offers easier handling and a more visible, professional finish. If you're new to binding, start with 13mm for smoother results.
- 7mm Bias Tape: Choose 7mm bias tape for lightweight fabrics like chiffon, silk, or delicate blouses. It creates a finer edge that doesn't overpower the garment, but requires careful stitching. Practice on scraps before applying 7mm tape to your final project.
- Decorative Floral Bias Tape: For a decorative trim that stands out, consider a 13mm floral bias tape. It adds a pattern to your edge and works well on bags, pillows, or as a contrast accent. Match the floral pattern scale to your project size for a cohesive look.
Bias Tape Options at Les Tissées
- Poly Cotton Bias | 13 mm: Poly Cotton Bias | 13 mm is a 13mm wide poly-cotton bias tape, sold in 0.50 meter increments. This width provides a balanced finish for most binding projects, and the poly-cotton blend offers durability and easy care.
Poly Cotton Bias | 13 mm - Poly Cotton Bias | 7 mm: Poly Cotton Bias | 7 mm is a 7mm wide poly-cotton bias tape, sold in 0.50 meter increments. The narrower width is ideal for delicate trims and lightweight fabrics, though it requires more precise stitching.
Poly Cotton Bias | 7 mm
Which Width Fits Your Project?
Best for
- 13mm bias tape: medium-weight garments, home decor, and projects where a visible, sturdy binding is desired.
- 7mm bias tape: lightweight fabrics, delicate trims, and projects where a subtle edge is preferred.
Not for
- 7mm bias tape: heavy fabrics or projects requiring a substantial binding that can withstand stress.
- 13mm bias tape: very delicate or sheer fabrics where a wider binding would overwhelm the design.
