Glossary

[I’m parking any technical definitions here, and probably also definitions of some slang words that my mom has trouble keeping track of.]

“Bias Tape”  Strips of fabric that are usually used to finish off the edges of clothing (or quilts).  You can buy pre-made bias tape at the fabric store or make it yourself out of any fabric.  Its called “bias tape” because you cut it “on the bias” — a phrase I remember hearing on Project Runway but never understood. It means cut on a 45-degree angle across the fabric.  The bias has more stretch than cutting straight up & down or side-to-side, so it wraps & lays more nicely around small arm and neck holes.  You need the extra strips for finishing those holes because if you just turned it under and sewed like a hem, it would pucker.  You can buy a handy little tool that helps you make your own bias tape so that it folds in and looks nice.