Micro Welt Cord for Slipcovers
Use this micro welt cord to create narrow, decorative piping for your slipcovers! Find out how it compares to standard size welt cord and which fabrics it works best with.
I replicate a lot of heavyweight denim and canvas slipcovers for my customers. Their original covers are almost always trimmed with sturdy welt cord or topstitch.
But one of my recent projects was different. I noticed it was sewn with unusually small piping. It looked tiny compared to the standard 5/32 welt cord I always use. I wondered if it was just an empty welt, you know, a folded bias strip without the cording.
As I cut apart the slipcover seams, I was surprised to find micro welt cord! I was so impressed by the look and performance of that tiny trim I had to try it. First in a few mock-ups and then in a throw pillow.
What is Micro Welt Cord?
Micro welt is a pliable, braided cord that is made from a polyester-cotton blend. It’s available in four sizes, each with a diameter smaller than the standard 5/32-inch size commonly used for slipcovers.
This narrow welt cord is primarily used to embellish light to medium weight valances, draperies, throw pillows, duvet covers, and clothing.
It’s machine washable and does not require preshrinking before using it in your project.
What Size Works Best for Slipcovers?
After testing all four micro sizes (2/32, 5/64, 3/32 and 4/32), I recommend the 5/64 size for slipcovers.
It’s approximately 1/8 inch in diameter, which is two sizes smaller than the standard 5/32-inch cord I ordinarily use. But it still has enough structure to hold its shape in most slipcover designs.
Will Micro Welt Work with All Slipcover Fabrics?
Micro welt cord size 5/64 is not compatible with all slipcover fabrics. It works best with tightly woven, non-stretchy weaves such as twill, canvas, and denim in the weights shown below.
- 8 to 12 oz cotton canvas and duck
- 10 to 12 oz cotton twill and bull denim
- 10 to 12 oz hemp canvas and twill
- 8-to 12 oz linen canvas
Because this micro cord is petite, the shape most likely will disappear if wrapped in plush, quilted or highly textured fabrics. Examples include matelasse, velvet, damask, chenille, and certain synthetic upholstery textiles.
Why Use Micro Welt Cord on Slipcovers?
This little cord works great as an understated alternative to standard welt.
Use it on slipcover projects to create a modern minimal seam finish, especially on simple slipcover shapes such as track arm sofas, basic barrel chairs and boxy dining chairs.
I love the barely there look when this micro welt is cut in the same fabric and color as the slipcover.
Cut & Sew Tips:
- If you sew your slipcover with 3/4 inch seams, cut the bias welt strips 1.75 inch wide.
- If you sew your slipcover with 1/2 inch seams, cut the bias welt strips 1.5 wide.
- Use a zipper foot to sew the welt cord to your slipcover pieces.
- Position the needle snug against the cord without stitching through it. It takes a little practice!
- Or, use a cording foot that is sized for the 5/64-inch cord.
More Welt Cord Inspiration
7 Welt Cord Alternatives for Slipcovers
The Slipcover Maker’s Guide to Making Welt Cord
Contrast Welt Fabrics for Washable Slipcovers