Hi, the grosgrain im using to bind my raw edges is pretty stiff stuff and doesn't work well for curved edges...anyone have a source (please link me to the actual product used) for a more flexible pliable grosgrain or bia tape? Thanks!!

Edited by Konrad1013 on 04/09/2011 17:17:43 MDT.

Konrad,
Sometimes it helps to sew one side, and then tension and sew the other, catching the first side again.

What raw edge, how thick, what material? (How Tough is it?)
How are you attempting to get the job done?

Edited by greg23 on 04/09/2011 17:54:03 MDT.

Thanks Greg, I'm planning on binding the raw edges of a MYOG hipbelt, and shoulder harness. So, a layer of 4mm spacer mesh and either dyneema grid or 210d ripstop nylon. The spacer mesh flattens out, the 2 materials layered are around 2mm. I was either going to pre-crease the grosgrain down the center with an iron and sew it onto the raw edges or do your method...Haven't actually attempted it yet. I can just tell from handling my current grosgrain than when it comes to the curves, it doesn't want to flatten against the fabric.

Hi Konrad,
I have used grosgrain tape ironed half. I have found that bias tape from Quest Outfitters works better. I agree with Greg it is easier to stitch one side then the other especially along curves like on shoulder strapes.
Fred

Conrad for hip belts or shoulder straps use 3/4" cross grain ribbon because it more abrasion resistant because it exposed to the elements.
I have been trying out some pre folded nylon Bias tape for binding the inside stitches it works pretty good.
http://www.questoutfitters.com/narrow_roll_goods.htm#WEBBING-%20NYLON

Hey Konrad, I use 3/4" grosgrain from OWF it works great and takes a curve well. I fold the grosgrain in half and run it across the edge of the table to put a crease in it, which helps keep the top and bottom even. One thing which has helped me get good results with curves and grosgrain is to pull the grosgrain straight back toward you as hard as you can and turn the shoulder/hip strap and keep the grosgrain straight as you sew. By pulling the hard on the grosgrain and keeping it straight it keeps it from folding over on itself. Good luck with your project and post some photos of your results!

Pre folding is a good idea Christopher I never thought of it. I usually just run the cross grain pinched between my thumb and fore finger and it works. I wish I had the money for a commercial machine they have a binding ribbon fold attachment you run the cross grain ribbon through it pre folded close to the walking foot.
I have the binding ribbon fold attachment that came with my used Riccar machine but it will not take the thick cross grain ribbon.
Terry

I've used a thin nylon webbing from McMaster Carr, product 87975K54 (sorry, it's hard to link directly to a product on their site). It's very thin like grosgrain but also very flexible (way more flexible than grosgrain). It's actually a breeze to use to bind off a curved edge; no wrestling needed.

"McMaster Carr, product 87975K54"

Wow, that sounds like a great material. Don't know if i want the minimum 75 feet though...

Hey Konrad,
Here's what I use for doing exactly what you're talking about with 3/4" gross grain. Works amazing, and you get a really nice, uniform edge. Definitely worth the price tag.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Sewing-Machine-Plain-Tape-Binder-Attachment-Size-3-4-/400188725959?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item5d2d1b5ac7#ht_2377wt_905