Category Archives: slipcover trims

How To Hem a Slipcover with Welt Cord

Fitted Slipcover with Welt Cord Hem

A welt cord hem adds such a pretty, and professional finish to a slipcover. It works great for chair and sofa slipcovers that don’t need a skirt. Does your furniture have exposed legs? A welt cord hem will help show them off.

The hem on this wingback slipcover (above) is edged with welt cord and attached to the bottom of the chair with Velcro. The Velcro helps keep the slipcover from riding up and creates a smooth, taut hem line.

I’m often asked how I get this look. In today’s post I share my tips and tricks for hemming with welt cord. Continue reading →

The Slipcover Maker’s Guide to Making Welt Cord

How To Make Slipcover Welt Cord

Welt cord is one of the most popular trims used on slipcovers. It gives definition to seams and adds a tailored finish.

Trimming your slipcover with welt cord is a personal choice. It’s more decorative than functional even though it does a pretty good job at adding strength to seams.

You can make the bias fabric strips for your cord with self-fabric (the same as your slipcover) or contrast.  For the cord itself I recommend a medium firm poly tissue core wrapped in a braided cover, size 5/32.  Get resources here.

There is more than one method to make welt cord. I’ve tried them all! But at the end of the day here’s the one that works best for me. Continue reading →

Why I Never Use This in My Slipcovers

Welt Cord Trimmed Slipcover

I often trim my slipcovers with welt cord (piping).  It adds a subtle design detail and professional finish. When the cord is covered in the same fabric as the slipcover it blends right in.

Welt cord also adds a lot of function to a slipcover. It gives structure to the furniture body, cushions and arms. It defines a skirt line or hem edge. And, it adds strength to seams.

The right type of welt cord will hold its shape and look smooth and straight throughout the life of a washable slipcover. I always use washable, flexible, non-shrinking cord. It has a poly tissue core that’s wrapped with a braided cover.

What I NEVER use is plastic clothesline.  Here’s why:

Continue reading →