Welt Cord for Slipcovers: Which one works best?

ByKaren Published Updated

Medium-firm polyester welt cord in size 5/32 is my favorite for washable slipcovers. Learn why it performs well compared to cotton and plastic cord.

Polyester Welt Cord for Slipcovers

What type of welt cord works best for slipcovers? My favorite is medium-firm polyester in size 5/32. This cord (above) has a poly tissue-like core and wrapped with a poly braided cover.

Here’s why I like using it:

  • Firm enough to keep its shape yet soft enough to bend around curves smoothly
  • Doesn’t shrink or pucker when you wash your slipcover  
  • 5/32 size is ideal for slipcovers and throw pillows
  • The smaller size 4/32 also works for throw pillows, especially for light to medium fabrics

There are many retailers and wholesalers who carry this type of welt cord (hook and loop tape). For small quantities, I recommend the retailer Home Sewing Depot and for large wholesale quantities I would go with Rowley.

Cotton Welt Cord

Avoid using cotton welt cord (above) for washable slipcovers. The cotton fill is lumpy and loosely covered with fishnet. Another type of cotton welt cord is twisted like a rope. Either way, it’s mushy and flattens easily. Watch out, this stuff will shrink!

Also, don’t use plastic clothes line as welt cord. Learn why here.

4 Comments

  1. I was searching for cording at Walmart one evening after all cloth stores were closed. I discovered they had none. But, it came to me that clothes line cord might work. It was exactly what I needed. 5/32 poly cotton cord and it has worked beautifully on my slipcover. BTW, your slipcovers are beautiful!!

  2. Thanks for listing your source. I recently bought cording from a new supplier and it was the lumpy cotton type. Will only use it for dry clean slipcovers or not use it at all.

    1. You’re welcome, Karen. I always sample before I buy because I have found many supplier’s description of their welt cord doesn’t always match the quality.

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