what is straight seam binding?

[nolasewer]

I have a pattern for a knit t-shirt that calls for straight seam binding....so I'm guessing that its not bias tape, but I have no idea what it is! 
Any definitions plus ideas where I can find it would be great!

-Martha

[LizGo]

You're right, it's not bias.  It's this satiny stuff - you'll see it in the notions dept right along the bias tape and twill tape and stuff like that. I'm guessing they want the seam binding to stabilize the shoulder seams? In that case you can also just iron on a little strip of fusible interfacing to the sa in the shoulder seam.  I save scraps for this sort of thing.  Just give a little tug on the strip to make sure it has no  "give" .  There are other things you could use too, depending on the fabirc you are sewing.

[nolasewer]

The only satiny stuff my pathetic Joanns has is blanket binding- guess this calls for another trip to Hancocks and see if they have it.  Thanks, LizGo!

[AnnRowley]

Martha,

If it's only going to be used to stabilise the shoulder seam - check your instructions - then you can use a 1/2 inch strip cut along the selvage of woven fabric. Silk organza is the best, but you can use any fine stable fabric that will launder like the knit you are using.

Here, in the UK you can buy cotton or poly/cotton seam tape, but I rarely do, preferring to use a selvage strip.

Just put the raw edge of the strip next to raw edges of the fabric and serge them all together.

[nolasewer]

Ann,
  Thanks for your help. My MIL told me basically the same info today when she called-she said she used seam binding when she made her son's t-shirts but just used selvage fabric for her knit things. 
Martha

[Laurie]

I have also used twill tape to stablize the shoulder seams.  Glad I read this - just figured out the problem on a new tee that didn't fit right (same pattern and alterations as previous shirts!)  The fabric has a lot more give and the shoulders needed stablized!  One of those DUH moments!      Laurie

[Gorgeous Things]

For stabilizing knits, I use either selvage from silk organza or, occasionally, a strip of fusible interfacing. I've found that both work well.

HTH!
Ann

[Tachs_Girl]

I'm in the same pinch, and sadly I have no scrap material around at the moment (MASSIVE house cleaning last week), would Nylon ribbon work as long as it has no give to it?

[Liana]

I'm in the same pinch, and sadly I have no scrap material around at the moment (MASSIVE house cleaning last week), would Nylon ribbon work as long as it has no give to it?

It should work just fine.  As long as it isn't going to be scratchy when you wear it.     (You knew you were going to need those scraps you finally let go of, didn't you?) 

[Mom to 5]

Ive looked in JoAnns & Hancocks.....   so I guess I will go the silk organza route??   I just need to cut a strip from the selvage??  Im making Simplicity 2598 View D. E