Grosgrain versus quilt edging

[Peg-Leg]

Anyone have input on this? I've used 1/2 inch quilt edging on a couple of hammocks to strengthen the edge and eliminate the slight width loss that comes from using a rolled hem.

The quilt edging is usually a clearance item at my local Walmart, generally $1 for 3 yards. It's already double folded, so it's easy to work with.

What advantage is there to using grosgrain on a tarp versus the quilt edging?

Thanks.

[BurningCedar]

I assume then that when you use the quilt edging that you're not first folding (rolling) the fabric.

If so, then I'm guessing (and this is truly just a guess) that the seam may not be as strong as a simple rolled hem. My thinking is that if you grasp the edging and pull away from the fabric, there's nothing to keep the raw edge of the fabric from unfraying -- leaving you with a with a handful of sewed edging no longer attached to the hammock. This is just a guess -- I have no personal experience to back this up.

A simple rolled hem seems to have the advantage of being easier to sew, stronger, and lighter at the cost of about 2 inches of width (one inch on each side).

[slowhike]

I'd have to agree w/ just what BurningCeder said. Rolled hem = easier, stronger... worth the extra oz or so.
Of course I'd also have to say "I have no personal experience to back this up".

[Ramblinrev]

If so, then I'm guessing (and this is truly just a guess) that the seam may not be as strong as a simple rolled hem. My thinking is that if you grasp the edging and pull away from the fabric, there's nothing to keep the raw edge of the fabric from unfraying -- leaving you with a with a handful of sewed edging no longer attached to the hammock. This is just a guess -- I have no personal experience to back this up.

On a truly raw edge this would be a concern. If the fabric is cut with a hot knife, flame sealed or if the selvage is left intact the edges are sealed as effectively as if the hem was rolled.

[Dutch]

I thought that the edging from Walmart (and everywhere else I looked) has at least some % of cotton in it.

[Peg-Leg]

Good points. Yes, the edging seems to be comprised mostly of cotton. That's one of the drawbacks I see as, it would probably soak up water if used on a tarp.

[sclittlefield]

Not only soak up water but it will rot after being out for a while. Just remember, when it comes to the outdoors: "Cotton Kills!"

[TiredFeet]

I think what you might be referring to is double fold bias tape.

It can be used on fabric edges and if used properly gives a strong and nice finished edge.

Unfortunately, all of the bias tape I have seen in fabric stores is partially cotton and as others have written, that doesn't hold up too well in outdoor equipment.

However, it is possible to find polyester bias tape on the internet.

TeeDee purchased 50 yds of 7/8" double fold polyester bias tape on ebay for $1 + $10 S&H which comes to $0.22/yard delivered.

So a good bargain on double fold polyester bias tape can be found if you are willing to look and it does provide a strong and professional looking finished edge

[Peg-Leg]

I think what you might be referring to is double fold bias tape.

It can be used on fabric edges and if used properly gives a strong and nice finished edge.

Unfortunately, all of the bias tape I have seen in fabric stores is partially cotton and as others have written, that doesn't hold up too well in outdoor equipment.

However, it is possible to find polyester bias tape on the internet.

TeeDee purchased 50 yds of 7/8" double fold polyester bias tape on ebay for $1 + $10 S&H which comes to $0.22/yard delivered.

So a good bargain on double fold polyester bias tape can be found if you are willing to look and it does provide a strong and professional looking finished edge

You are correct. Thanks for the info on the polyester bias tape.