Sewing on the bias.

Question

Is it difficult to cut and sew garments on the bias?

Answer 1

Short answer, yes, sewing on the bias is incredibly difficult when you first begin doing it.

The longer answer is that sewing is a skill and the more that you practice, and learn how different textiles behave, the easier it gets.

If you're new to sewing bias-grain garments lightweight and "slippery" fabrics, such as satin, will be difficult to pin, serge, feed through your machine, and press at the iron without stretching. However, heavier and rougher textiles - like plain-weave cotton - will be much easier to sew on the bias. These easier fabrics often come at a cost though, as bias garments rely heavily on the lightweight nature of certain textiles to beautifully hug the body and fall towards the floor.

In order to successfully pattern, cut, and sew a bias garment it does, unfortunately, require a vast understanding of fabric-specific behavior.

Answer 2

Anything is difficult without the right information, tools and practice. Sewing on the bias is the most effective way to showcase the beauty of a fabric, even if it's an inexpensive fabric. Draping, cutting and sewing an inexpensive fabric increases it's appeal, giving it the illusion of luxury.