Question 1

What is the difference between piping and welting?

Accepted Answer

Piping and welting are the same idea at different scales: a cord wrapped in a fabric strip with a sewing flange. "Piping" usually means thinner trim (1/8" to 1/4" cord) for pillows, apparel seams, and lampshades, while "welting" or "welt cord" means heavier 5/16" to 1/2" cord for upholstery and box cushions. Check the listed cord diameter rather than the name.

Question 2

How do I choose the right piping size?

Accepted Answer

Match cord diameter to the project weight. Use 1/8"-3/16" piping for lightweight apparel, baby items, and small accent pillows; 1/4" is the all-purpose size for throw pillows and slipcovers; 5/16"-1/2" welt cord suits sofa cushions, ottomans, and headboards. Wider cord reads bolder from across a room, so scale it to how visible the seam will be.

Question 3

Should I buy pre-made piping or make my own?

Accepted Answer

Pre-made piping (sold by the yard or in put-up packs) saves time and gives a uniform finish in stock colors. Buy cord-only or piping cord plus bias tape when you want a custom fabric to match a print exactly, need to round tight curves, or want a specific cord weight. Many makers keep both: ready-made for solids, DIY bias for prints and slipcovers.

Question 4

How much piping do I need for a pillow?

Accepted Answer

For a standard 18" square pillow, the perimeter is 72", so buy at least 2.5 yards to cover the seam plus overlap and a join. For 20" pillows allow 3 yards. Round cushions and box cushions need more for the boxing strip seams. Buying an extra half-yard covers mitered corners and a clean splice where the ends meet.

Question 5

What's the easiest way to sew piping neatly?

Accepted Answer

Use a zipper foot or a dedicated piping/welting foot so the needle rides right against the cord. Baste the piping to one panel first, clip into the flange at curves and corners so it lies flat, then sew the second panel on top using the basting line as your guide. Sewing just inside that line hides the stitches when turned right-side out.

Question 6

Is cotton or polyester piping cord better?

Accepted Answer

Cotton cord is soft, takes a sharp crease, and is preferred for apparel and items that may be pressed, but it can shrink, so pre-wash if the finished item will be laundered. Polyester and poly-cotton cord resists shrinking and mildew, making it the safer pick for outdoor cushions, slipcovers, and upholstery. Foam or flexible welt cord bends around tight curves without kinking.

Piping & Welting Cord for Sewing

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