This is a successor to the previous metric Bias Tape Maker with a few design adjustments to make it quicker to print and smoother to operate.
The Design Evolution
Traditional bias tape makers are often bulky, difficult to thread, and require supports to print the internal overhangs. This redesign strips the tool down to its essential geometry. By relocating the feed slot to the bottom, the threading process becomes intuitive and the overall footprint is reduced. The result is a sleek, professional sewing tool that prioritises ease of use and mechanical reliability.
Key Features
- Inverted Feed Geometry: The unique bottom-entry slot allows for effortless fabric threading and smoother tension control.
- Sleek, Low-Profile Aesthetic: A smaller footprint that uses less material without sacrificing grip or function.
- Precision Sizing: Available in a full range from 7mm upward. Each tool is clearly embossed with its output size for easy identification.
- Modular Storage: Includes a custom-fit storage tray to keep your workspace organised and your tape makers protected.
- Support-Free Design: Designed around the characteristics of 3D printing to ensure clean internal channels and no post-processing.
How to Use
- Prepare: Cut your fabric strips at a 45-degree angle (bias) to twice the width of the maker’s output (e.g., for a 12mm maker, use a 24mm strip).
- Thread: Slide the fabric into the bottom-feed slot.
- Pull & Iron: Pull the maker along the fabric while following closely with your iron.
Print Settings
- Filament: PLA is quick to print and ideal for the smooth internal finish required for fabric.
- Walls: 3 Walls (to ensure the internal channels are solid and smooth).
- Supports: None
- Layer Height: 0.2mm (Higher resolution ensures the smoothest fabric path so you can go down to 0.16mm if you'd like).
- Print time: Around 40 to 50 minutes depending on the size
Designer's Note: This design focuses on material efficiency. By moving the feed slot and optimising the internal volume, I have reduced the plastic required to produce these tools by nearly 30% compared to traditional 3D-printed versions. The support-free geometry helps with a high success rate (I haven't had any failures yet) with no filament waste. I'm pretty proud of this one given how many drafts I went through to get it working well, printing easily, and looking good (as a result of those first two, really). My philosophy is that criticism is a form of collaboration. So please don't hold back on any insights you have from printing or using the tools. It's greatly appreciated.
Haus Sparrow
