What Is a Sasher?
A Sasher (also called a bias tape maker) is a small tool that folds fabric strips into finished bias tape or binding automatically as you pull the fabric through the tool and press with an iron. The result is perfectly folded, crisp tape ready for applique, binding, trim, or decorative applications -- achieved in a fraction of the time that hand-folding individual lengths of bias tape requires. For quilters who use binding and bias tape regularly, a Sasher is one of those tools that immediately becomes indispensable once you try it.
The Sasher Collection Ultimate Set of 12 from Pauline's Quilters World covers every standard Sasher width in a single colour-coded set, with 12 different sizes for the complete range of bias tape and binding widths used in quilting, garment making, and home dec sewing. The set now includes the 3-inch Sasher and Magic Binding Tool, making it the most comprehensive Sasher collection available.
How a Sasher Works
Cut a fabric strip at the width specified for your Sasher size, feed the leading edge into the wide end of the Sasher, and pull the strip through with one hand while pressing the folded tape that emerges from the narrow end with an iron in the other hand. The Sasher's channel folds the raw edges toward the center automatically, creating a pressed, double-fold tape that is immediately ready to use. No pinning, no measuring the fold, no chance of uneven edges.
The 12-Size System and Colour Coding
The Ultimate Set covers widths from very narrow (for delicate accent trim and small applique) through wide (for quilt binding and wide sashing). Each Sasher is colour-coded to its size for instant identification -- no measuring or labeling required. The colour system also makes it easy to teach students and communicate which size is needed for a specific application.
Top 10 Uses for the Sasher Collection
- Quilt Binding Preparation -- Create consistent, perfectly folded binding strips in any width without tedious hand-pressing.
- Applique Bias Stem and Vine Work -- Make bias tape in the exact width needed for curved applique stems, vines, and Celtic-style designs.
- Celtic Quilting and Bias Tape Applique -- The precision of Sasher-made tape is essential for Celtic interlace and other geometric bias tape designs.
- Hawaiian Applique Tape -- Fine, consistent bias strips for traditional Hawaiian quilt applique work.
- Garment Binding and Trim -- Professional-looking bias binding for garment necklines, armholes, and decorative trim applications.
- Home Dec Pillow and Cushion Binding -- Apply consistent binding to throw pillows, cushions, and home dec items with professional results.
- Stained Glass Quilting Lead Lines -- Narrow bias tape for the lead lines in stained glass quilt designs requires precise, consistent width.
- Corded and Piped Seams -- Some Sasher widths produce tape appropriate for covering piping cord in garments and accessories.
- Teaching Bias Tape Making -- The colour-coded set is ideal for teaching environments where students need clear visual identification of tool sizes.
- Christmas and Holiday Trim Projects -- Quickly produce holiday-color bias tape and binding for seasonal quilts and home dec projects.
What Fabric Width to Cut for Each Sasher
Each Sasher specifies the cut width needed for its channel -- cut the strip at twice the finished tape width plus seam allowances, or follow the specific instructions printed on each Sasher. The colour-coded system includes size information on each tool. For most quilt binding, a 2.25 to 2.5-inch finished binding uses the appropriate wide Sasher in the set.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Magic Binding Tool included in the set?
The Magic Binding Tool is a specialized guide that helps create perfectly mitered corners and consistent binding joins when applying binding to quilt edges. Combined with the Sasher for binding preparation, it completes the binding workflow from cutting to finished quilt edge.
Can I use the Sasher with knit or stretch fabrics?
Sashers work best with woven fabrics -- quilting cotton, linen, and similar stable wovens. Stretch fabrics can be challenging to pull through consistently without distortion. Use stretch-specific bias tape makers for knit applications.
What iron temperature works best with the Sasher?
A standard cotton setting with steam produces the crispest pressed tape. For very fine widths, reduce steam slightly to avoid distorting narrow strips.
Are replacement Sashers available for individual sizes?
Individual Sasher sizes may be available separately. For the complete system, the Ultimate Set of 12 is the most economical way to acquire all widths at once.
Shop Sasher Collection Ultimate Set of 12
Every bias tape width, colour-coded and complete. The tool that makes binding and applique stem work effortless for every project that demands them.
