Customisable Bias Tape Maker | No Supports

Update 1: 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.

Update 2: This is now fully parametric for all sizes from 5mm to 45mm. Just enter the folded bias size you would like in the MakerWorld Customiser and the model will update to those specifications, ready for you to print.

The Design

Traditional bias tape makers are often bulky and difficult to thread, and 3D printed versions often require supports to print the internal overhangs. This parametric redesign strips the tool down to the basics, resulting in a print that is quick, easy, uses less filament, and produces a bias tape tool to the exact size you need. It prints upright without supports. With this update, I've extruded the sizing number to allow a colour change at the top 3 layers. It allows the visually impaired to feel the number and those with partial sight to read it more easily.

Key Features

• Inverted Feed Slot: By moving the feed slot to the lower side, the fabric can be threaded through more easily.
• Smaller Profile: A smaller footprint that uses less material without sacrificing grip or function.
• Customisable Sizing: Available in a full range from 5mm to 45mm if you use the MakerWorld Customiser.
• Clear numbering: The sizing number on the front and top of the tape maker update automatically based on the bias size you choose. They have been redesigned to be more legible and tactile for the visually impaired.
• Support-Free Design: Designed around the characteristics of 3D printing to ensure clean internal channels and no post-processing.

How to Use

1. 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).
2. Thread: Slide the fabric into the bottom-feed slot.
3. 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. PETG also produces a low-friction finish.
• Walls: 3 Walls (to ensure the internal channels are solid and smooth).
• Infill: 15%. You can go higher if you prefer it slightly heavier (I do).
• 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: Dependent on the size, around 20 to 50 minutes
• Filament Usage: As little as 10g for the smaller sizes

Designer's Note: With my designs I try to focus on material efficiency. This almost always affects the aesthetic of the model in a positive way as I have to design around the constraints of 3D FDM printing and apply a lot of thought and pen on paper to solve it. In this instance, that led to a roughly 30% reduction in material use 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 and I promise I take all of it into account.