A Guide To Piping and Cording: What Are They, Differences & Applications

Piping and cording are two elements that may seem trivial but can make a significant impact on the aesthetics and functionality of various projects. Whether you're into sewing, upholstery, or interior design, understanding the nuances of these materials can elevate your work to a professional level. In this guide, we'll delve into the basics of piping and cording, explore their differences, and discuss their applications in various fields.

What is Piping?

Piping is essentially a narrow tube of fabric, often filled with a cord, that is used to decorate the edges of various items like cushions, clothing, and upholstery. It serves both a functional and decorative purpose, providing a clean finish and adding a pop of colour or contrast to the design. Piping is often used in high-wear areas, such as corners and seams, to provide additional reinforcement. It's a versatile material that can be made from various types of fabric, including cotton, polyester, and even leather.

If you're looking for a wide range of fabric options to match your piping needs, you can explore our collection of fabrics that offers a variety of textures and colours.

What is Cording?

Cording, on the other hand, is a twisted or braided rope that is used in a variety of applications, from crafts and home décor to fashion and upholstery. Unlike piping, cording is not usually covered with fabric, although it can be. It is commonly used as drawstrings, tiebacks for curtains, or decorative elements on pillows and cushions. Cording can be made from a variety of materials, including cotton, polyester, and even metallic threads for a more luxurious look.

For those interested in incorporating cording into their home décor but don't want to take on a big project, have a look at our ready-made curtains, offering designs that feature beautiful cording details.

The Key Differences Between Piping and Cording

While both piping and cording serve similar purposes in adding decorative elements and providing reinforcement, they differ in structure, material, and application. Piping is essentially cording that has been encased in fabric, which allows it to blend seamlessly into sewing projects. Cording, being more versatile, can stand alone and doesn't necessarily need to be sewn into a project.

When it comes to choosing between the two, consider the durability and the visual appeal you want to achieve. Piping is generally more durable due to the extra layer of fabric, making it ideal for projects that require longevity like furniture upholstery. On the other hand, cording offers more flexibility in terms of design and is easier to work with in crafts and quick DIY projects.

For a variety of home décor items that utilise these elements creatively, cushions are a great place to start incorporating both piping and cording in their designs.

Understanding the basics and differences between piping and cording can significantly influence the outcome of your projects. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, knowing when and how to use these materials can set your work apart.

Applications of Piping

Piping is a popular choice for adding a professional finish to a wide range of items. In the realm of sewing, you'll often find piping along the seams of garments, adding a tailored look to jackets, dresses, and even casual wear. In upholstery, piping is commonly used to define the edges of sofas, chairs, and cushions, providing both a decorative flair and additional durability. Interior designers frequently use piping to accentuate the lines of custom-made furniture, curtains, and bedding, creating a cohesive and polished appearance.

For those interested in upholstery, a well-placed piping detail can make all the difference. It can define the shape of a piece, add a pop of colour, or simply provide a more finished look. If you're looking for inspiration, luxury bedding and bed linen offers a range of options that feature exquisite piping details.

Applications of Cording

Cording, with its more rustic and flexible nature, finds its place in a variety of crafts and home décor projects. It's commonly used in macramé wall hangings, dreamcatchers, and even jewelry. In home décor, cording can serve as stylish curtain tiebacks, or be woven into intricate patterns for decorative pillows. In fashion, cording is often used as drawstrings for pants and hoodies, or as embellishments on bags and accessories.

If you're a DIY enthusiast looking to incorporate cording into your projects, luxury rugs often showcase how cording can be used to create textured and visually appealing designs.

When to Use Piping vs Cording

Choosing between piping and cording often comes down to the specific needs of your project. If you're working on something that requires durability and a clean finish, such as furniture or high-quality garments, piping is your go-to option. For projects that call for more flexibility and creativity, like crafts and quick DIY tasks, cording is the better choice.

How to Add Piping to Your Projects

Adding piping to a sewing or upholstery project may seem daunting, but with the right tools and techniques, it's a straightforward process. First, you'll need to select the appropriate fabric and piping cord for your project. Cut strips of fabric on the bias for more flexibility, especially for curved edges. Wrap the fabric around the cord and sew it in place using a zipper foot on your sewing machine. When adding the piping to your project, pin it between the layers of fabric, aligning the raw edges, and sew it in place, again using the zipper foot for precision.

How to Add Cording to Your Projects

Adding cording to crafts or home décor projects is generally simpler than working with piping. For macramé or similar crafts, simply cut lengths of cording and tie them into your desired knots or patterns. For home décor items like cushions or curtains, you can sew the cording into the seam or attach it using fabric glue for a no-sew option. If you're adding cording as a drawstring, thread it through the casing using a safety pin to guide it.

Tips for Working with Piping and Cording

- Always Test: Before committing to adding piping or cording to your project, do a test run on scrap fabric to ensure you're happy with the look and feel.

- Use the Right Tools: Specialised presser feet like a piping or zipper foot can make the process much easier and more precise.

- Mind the Seam Allowance: When sewing piping or cording, be mindful of the seam allowance to ensure it aligns correctly with your project.

- Quality Matters: Always opt for high-quality materials. The durability of your piping or cording can significantly impact the lifespan of your project.

In conclusion, mastering the art of working with piping and cording can open up a world of creative possibilities. With these step-by-step guides and expert tips, you're well-equipped to take on any project, from simple crafts to intricate upholstery work. Happy crafting!