Pillow Piping: Decorative Trim & Sewing Guide

Pillow piping is a decorative trim. It is a fabric strip. It encases a cord. People apply it to pillow edges. Corded piping is the common alternative name for pillow piping. Sewing is the process. Sewing attaches piping to a pillow. It enhances the pillow’s design. Pillow form requires a decorative edge. Piping offers this decorative edge. It makes a pillow more stylish. Seam allowance is very important. It secures the piping in place. It ensures the pillow has a neat finish.

Hey there, fellow DIY enthusiasts! Ever look at a store-bought pillow and think, “Meh, it’s alright, but it’s missing something?” Well, let me let you in on a little secret: that “something” might just be piping!

Think of piping as the superhero sidekick of pillow design. It’s that subtle, yet oh-so-stylish trim that adds a touch of sophistication and pizzazz to your cushions. It’s the difference between a basic pillow and a designer pillow—and guess what? You can totally make designer pillows yourself!

But piping isn’t just about looks. It’s also about function. That little cord encased in fabric? It gives your pillow structure, helps it hold its shape, and adds a layer of durability. It’s like a tiny bodyguard for your fluffy friend!

And the best part? Adding piping is a surprisingly rewarding DIY project. Seriously, there’s nothing quite like stepping back and admiring your handiwork, knowing you transformed a simple pillow into a custom-designed masterpiece. Plus, the customization options are endless! You can choose different fabrics, colors, and piping styles to perfectly match your unique taste and home decor. So, are you ready to add some POP to your pillows? Let’s dive in!

Gathering Your Arsenal: Essential Materials and Tools

Alright, friend, let’s talk shop! Before you even think about firing up that sewing machine, remember this golden rule: success in sewing (especially when we’re talking about adding piping that would make a professional decorator weep with joy) hinges on having the right equipment and materials prepared beforehand. Trust me, there’s nothing more frustrating than being halfway through a project, only to realize you’re missing that one crucial thing. It’s like trying to bake a cake without eggs—a recipe for disaster! So, let’s gather our “weapons” and get ready to create some seriously stunning piped pillows.

Fabric Selection: The Foundation of Your Masterpiece

First and foremost: fabric. This isn’t just any fabric, my friend. We need to be picky. When choosing fabric for your pillow cover and piping, consider these key factors:

• Weight: You don’t want something too flimsy that will wear out quickly, nor something so heavy that your sewing machine throws a tantrum.
• Texture: Do you want something soft and cuddly, or something more structured and durable?
• Durability: How often will this pillow be used and washed? Choose a fabric that can withstand the wear and tear.
• Colorfastness: Will the colors bleed when washed? Nobody wants a tie-dye pillow unless that was the intention!

Some fabric suggestions that are great for pillows include:

• Cotton: A classic choice, breathable and easy to work with.
• Linen: Adds a touch of elegance and has a lovely texture.
• Upholstery fabrics: Designed for heavy use, these are super durable.

Pro Tip: Always, always, ALWAYS pre-wash your fabrics. Seriously. This prevents shrinkage later, which can ruin all your hard work. Imagine making this beautiful pillow, only to wash it and have the seams pucker and warp? Nobody wants that surprise!

Piping Cord: The Secret Ingredient

Now for the star of the show: piping cord. This is what gives your piping that nice, rounded shape. Piping cords come in different materials and thicknesses:

• Cotton: A natural fiber option.
• Polyester: Durable and holds its shape well.
• Rayon: Has a slight sheen, but can be more delicate.

The thickness of the cord will determine the size of your piping. For a subtle detail, go for a thinner cord; for a more dramatic effect, choose a thicker one. Experimentation is key here!

Thread: The Unsung Hero

Don’t skimp on the thread! It might seem like a minor detail, but using high-quality thread that complements your fabric is essential. Choose a color that either matches your fabric for a subtle look or contrasts for a bold statement. And most importantly, make sure it’s strong enough to hold everything together—a broken seam is never a good look.

Pillow Form/Insert: The Heart of the Pillow

This one’s pretty straightforward. Decide what size and type of pillow you want. Standard sizes are readily available, but feel free to get creative! Just make sure your pillow form fits snugly inside your cover.

Sewing Machine: Your Trusty Companion

A good sewing machine is a must-have for this project. Ideally, you’ll want one with an adjustable stitch length and the ability to accommodate a zipper or piping foot (more on that in a sec!).

Zipper Foot/Piping Foot: The Piping Game-Changer

These little beauties will make your life so much easier! A zipper foot allows you to sew close to the piping cord when creating the piping itself. A piping foot has a groove that guides the piping as you sew it onto the pillow cover, ensuring a neat and even finish. Trust me, invest in these; they’re worth their weight in gold!

Measuring and Cutting Tools: Precision is Your Friend

We’re talking scissors, rotary cutters, cutting mats, and seam gauges. Sharpness is key! Dull scissors will make your fabric fray and your cuts uneven. A rotary cutter and cutting mat are great for cutting long, straight strips of fabric for the piping. And a seam gauge will help you maintain consistent seam allowances (which is super important for a professional-looking finish).

Measuring Tape/Ruler: Accuracy is Everything

You can’t cut accurate pieces without proper measuring. Measure twice, cut once remember?

Pins/Clips: Keeping It All Together

Pins or clips are essential for holding your fabric and piping in place before sewing. I personally prefer clips for thicker fabrics, as they tend to hold better and don’t leave holes in the fabric.

Iron and Ironing Board: The Secret to a Professional Finish

Last but not least, don’t forget your iron and ironing board! Pressing your fabric and seams will give your pillow a crisp, professional look. Nobody wants a wrinkly pillow!

So, there you have it! With your arsenal assembled, you’re ready to tackle the next step: prepping your fabric and creating the piping. Let’s get to it!

Preparation is Key: Measuring, Cutting, and Preparing the Piping

Alright, my crafty comrades, before we dive into the sewing shenanigans, let’s talk prep! Think of this as the mise en place of pillow making. A little effort here means a smoother, saner sewing experience later. Trust me, you don’t want to be wrestling with uneven fabric cuts when you’re halfway through a project. So, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty!

Measuring and Cutting Fabric: Precision is Your Pal

First up, we’re tackling fabric. It’s time to measure, measure, and measure again. Remember that old carpenter’s saying, “Measure twice, cut once?” Well, it applies here too but let’s change it into “Measure THRICE, cut once”! Grab your fabric, measuring tape, and let’s get this show on the road.

• Pillow Cover Fabric: Determine the size of your pillow form. Add seam allowance on all sides. I usually go for at least 1/2 inch, but if you’re feeling extra cautious, bump it up to 5/8 inch. Better safe than sorry, right?

• Piping Strips: Now, for the piping, you’ll need fabric strips wide enough to wrap around your piping cord. Here’s a rule of thumb: Piping Cord Diameter + (Seam Allowance x 2) + a little extra wiggle room. So, if you have a 1/4-inch cord and a 1/2-inch seam allowance, you’re looking at a strip that’s about 1 1/2 inches wide. Cut these strips on the bias (at a 45-degree angle to the grain of the fabric) for extra flexibility, especially if you’re dealing with curves!

• Diagram Time: For visual learners, imagine a rectangle (your pillow fabric). Now picture the piping strips as long ribbons ready to wrap around the cord. Check out the visual aids for a clearer picture – literally.

• Extra Seam Allowance: Consider adding extra seam allowance, especially if you’re new to this. It’s like an insurance policy against wonky seams.

Creating the Piping: Wrap It Up!

Time to bring that piping to life! It’s a bit like making fabric sushi, but way less edible (please, don’t try to eat it).

• Wrapping the Cord: Lay your fabric strip wrong-side up. Place the piping cord along the center of the strip. Fold the fabric over the cord, encasing it snugly. Pin or clip along the edge to keep everything in place.

• Sewing Close to the Cord: Now, fire up that sewing machine! Using your zipper or piping foot, sew as close to the cord as possible. This is where precision is key. A consistent seam allowance here will give you that professional-looking piping we’re after.

• Uniform Thickness: To avoid puckering and ensure a uniform thickness, keep the fabric taut as you sew. Gently guide the fabric and cord, but don’t pull too hard.

• Joining Strips: What if one strip isn’t long enough to go around your entire pillow? Easy peasy! Place the ends of two strips right sides together at a 90-degree angle and stitch diagonally from corner to corner. Trim the excess fabric, press the seam open, and voilà! One long, continuous piping strip.

Attaching the Piping: From Frustration to Fabulousness!

Alright, champions of craft, now for the moment we’ve been waiting for – slapping that gorgeous piping onto our pillow front! Think of this as the frosting on the cake, the sprinkles on the ice cream, the… well, you get the picture. It’s what really makes the project pop!

Piping Placement: Where Oh Where Should It Go?

First things first, where do we even want this piping? Are we going for a classic, clean look with the piping right along the edge? Or are we feeling a little more adventurous and want to inset it, creating a cool, framed effect? Picture it like this: Piping along the edge is like a tailored suit, always stylish. Inset piping? That’s your funky statement necklace that everyone compliments. Play around, hold the piping in different spots and see what tickles your fancy! Remember, there are no rules in the DIY kingdom, just guidelines… that we can totally ignore!

Securing the Piping: Pin It to Win It!

Okay, so we know where we want the piping. Now, we need to hold that bad boy in place. This is where your pins or clips come in handy. Align the raw edge of your piping with the raw edge of your pillow front. Take your time to get it just right. Now, start pinning or clipping every inch or two. This ensures everything stays put while we sew, and trust me, it’s worth the extra effort to avoid any sneaky shifting during the sewing process.

Sewing the Piping: Slow and Steady Wins the Race

Time to fire up the sewing machine! Use your zipper or piping foot to get nice and close to the piping cord (this is KEY). Sew slowly, maintaining a consistent seam allowance (usually 1/2 inch, but refer to your pattern). Backstitch at the beginning and end to lock that stitch and keep everything secure. Remember, we’re going for a professional finish. Patience is your friend! If you’re new to this, practice on a scrap piece of fabric first. It’s better to mess up on a test run than on your precious pillow!

Clipping and Notching: Taming Those Curves!

Alright, this is crucial, especially if you have any curves or corners. Clipping and notching the seam allowance of the piping allows it to bend and shape nicely without puckering or bunching. For curves, make small snips into the seam allowance, almost to the stitching line, every half-inch or so. For corners, trim away some of the excess fabric to reduce bulk. This step is like giving your piping a spa day – it relaxes and allows it to lie beautifully flat! Ignoring this step is like wearing shoes that are two sizes too small – it just doesn’t work.

Assembling the Pillow Cover: Time to Bring It All Together!

Alright, we’ve prepped, we’ve cut, we’ve piped – now for the grand finale! It’s time to assemble our pillow cover, turning those individual pieces into a beautiful, cohesive whole. Think of this stage as the ultimate puzzle, where all the pieces finally click into place.

Seam Allowance: The Unsung Hero

Before we dive in, let’s have a quick refresher on seam allowance. Throughout this entire project, maintaining a consistent seam allowance is crucial. Why? Because it ensures that your pillow cover fits your pillow form perfectly and that your seams are nice and strong. Aim for the seam allowance you chose at the start – usually ½ inch or 5/8 inch works great. Stick to it like glue!

Sewing the Front and Back: Making It Official

Here comes the fun part! Place your pillow front (the one with the piping already attached, looking all snazzy) face up on your work surface. Now, lay the pillow back face down on top of the front. This means the right sides of the fabric should be facing each other. Pin or clip all the way around the edges, making sure to align the raw edges and the piping neatly.

Now, head over to your sewing machine. Starting a few inches from one of the corners, begin sewing around the perimeter of the pillow cover. Remember that consistent seam allowance we talked about? Keep it in mind now! Crucially, leave an opening – usually about 12-15 inches wide – along one side of the pillow. This is where you’ll later insert the pillow form, so make sure it’s wide enough. Backstitch at the beginning and end of your seam to secure it – no one wants a seam unraveling!

Neatening Corners: A Pro Tip for a Polished Look

Corners can be tricky. To avoid bulky, rounded corners on your finished pillow, it’s time for a neatening trick. Before turning your pillow cover right side out, trim the excess fabric from the corners diagonally. Be careful not to cut into your seam! This reduces bulk and allows for sharper, more defined corners. Another option is to miter the corners, folding the seam allowance at a 45-degree angle and pressing it with an iron before sewing. This creates a crisp, professional finish.

Reinforcing Seams: Because Durability Matters

Since this pillow is going to be snuggled, squished, and maybe even used in a pillow fight (we don’t judge!), reinforcing the seams is a must. After sewing the perimeter, go back and backstitch over the beginning and end of each seam. This adds extra strength and prevents the seams from pulling apart, especially when you stuff that pillow form inside. A little extra effort here will save you headaches down the road!

Finishing Touches: Time to Bring it Home!

Alright, you’ve navigated the tricky bits, and now you’re staring at (hopefully) a beautiful pillow cover just begging for its fluffy soulmate! Let’s get that pillow form nestled in and seal the deal with a closure that’s both functional and fabulous. It’s like the grand finale of our sewing symphony, so let’s make it a showstopper.

Stuffing Time: Gently Does It!

Think of inserting the pillow form like giving your pillow a gentle hug. No need to Hulk smash it in there!

1. Fluff It Up: Give your pillow form a good fluffing. This helps distribute the filling evenly and makes it easier to insert.
2. The “Taco” Method: Fold the pillow form in half, like a taco. This reduces its width and makes it easier to slide into the opening.
3. Slow and Steady: Gently guide the folded pillow form into the opening of your pillow cover. Work it in bit by bit, smoothing out any wrinkles as you go.
4. Shape It: Once the pillow form is fully inside, give it a good shake and massage to fill out the corners and achieve your desired plumpness.

Choosing Your Closure: Zip It, Stitch It, or Stick It!

Now for the big decision: how to close that opening? Each method has its charm and its challenges.

• The Zipper Option: Smooth Operator
  • Pros: Super sleek, professional look, and easy to remove the pillow form for washing.
  • Cons: Requires sewing a zipper (which some find intimidating), and can be a bit fiddly.
  • If you’ve already sewn a zipper in a pillow, you will find it easy to maintain and durable compared to other options.
• Hook-and-Loop (Velcro) Fastener: Quick and Easy
  • Pros: Beginner-friendly, fast, and no sewing skills required for some adhesive options.
  • Cons: Not as durable as other options, can wear out over time, and may not be suitable for pillows that get a lot of use.

• The Blind Stitch: Secret Agent Closure

  • Pros: Invisible finish, adds a touch of elegance, and relatively easy to master.
  • Cons: Requires hand-sewing, which takes a bit longer.

The Art of the Blind Stitch: Shhh, It’s a Secret!

So, you have chosen blind stich. A blind stitch creates an almost invisible seam, perfect for a professional finish. Here is how to get started:

1. Thread Your Needle: Use a single strand of thread that matches your fabric. Knot the end.
2. Fold and Press: Fold the raw edges of the opening inward, creating a clean, folded edge. Press with an iron for a crisp finish.
3. Hide the Knot: Bring your needle up through the fold on one side of the opening, hiding the knot inside the fold.
4. The “Ladder” Stitch:
   • Take a tiny stitch on the opposite side of the opening, picking up just a few threads of the fabric.
   • Then, take another tiny stitch on the first side, directly across from where you just stitched.
   • Continue this “ladder” pattern, alternating stitches from one side to the other.
5. Pull It Tight: Every few stitches, gently pull the thread tight. This will draw the edges of the opening together, creating a nearly invisible seam.
6. Secure the End: When you reach the end of the opening, make a small knot inside the fold and bury the thread tail.

Topstitching: The Optional Cherry On Top

Want to add that extra touch of pizzazz and durability? Consider topstitching! This involves sewing a straight line close to the edge of the pillow, all the way around.

• Why Topstitch? It reinforces the seams, prevents the edges from fraying, and adds a decorative touch.
• How To: Use a slightly longer stitch length and sew about 1/4 inch from the edge of the pillow. Choose a thread that either matches your fabric or provides a subtle contrast.

And there you have it! A perfectly stuffed, expertly closed, and totally gorgeous piped pillow. Give yourself a pat on the back, because you earned it!

Design Considerations: It’s All About Your Vision!

Okay, you’ve mastered the technical stuff – cutting, sewing, and piping like a pro! Now comes the really fun part: unleashing your inner designer! Seriously, this is where you get to turn a plain pillow into a statement piece that screams, “This is so me!” So, grab your creative hat (the one with the pom-poms, obviously) and let’s dive into some design deliciousness.

Pillow Shape: Square, Rectangle, or Round? Oh My!

Don’t underestimate the power of shape! A classic square pillow is always a safe bet and super versatile. It’s like the little black dress of pillows. But if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, a rectangular pillow can add a touch of modern elegance, especially on a bed or sofa.

And then there’s the round pillow – the cool kid of the pillow world! Round pillows are soft, friendly, and tend to add a quirky, playful vibe, and piping can make round pillows even more of a focal point, defining their shape beautifully.

Keep in mind that curves will require some extra finesse, so be sure to clip and notch generously!

Color and Pattern Coordination: Make it Pop (or Subtly Serene!)

Color and pattern are your secret weapons. Want to make a bold statement? Go for contrasting colors between the pillow fabric and the piping! Imagine a bright teal pillow with vibrant pink piping. BAM! Instant eye-catcher.

Feeling more Zen? Opt for harmonious colors that are in the same family. Think a creamy beige pillow with subtle gold piping. Elegant and understated.

And who says you have to stick to solids? Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns! A floral pillow with striped piping? Why not! Just make sure the patterns complement each other in terms of scale and color.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing colors:

• Consider your existing decor: What colors and patterns are already present in your room?
• Use a color wheel: A color wheel can help you understand how different colors relate to each other and create harmonious combinations.
• Test it out: Before you commit to a fabric, test it out in your room to see how it looks in different lighting conditions.

Piping Width and Style: Skinny, Chunky, or Something in Between?

Did you know piping isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of deal? The width and style of your piping can make a huge difference in the overall look of your pillow.

• Thin piping is subtle and refined, adding a delicate touch.
• Wider piping is more bold and noticeable, creating a stronger visual statement.
• Consider a Flanged Edge: Instead of traditional piping, consider a flanged edge. It’s a simple way to add an elegant border to the pillow without the distinct look of piping cord.

So, play around with different widths and styles of piping to see what suits your personal taste and the overall design of your pillow.

And that’s all there is to it! Now you can add a touch of elegance and personality to your pillows with beautiful piping. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and fabrics to create unique designs that reflect your style. Happy sewing!