To sew piping on a pillow, you’ll need to start by cutting your fabric and pre-made piping to the correct size, then pin the piping around the right side of one panel of your pillow fabric, following it up by stitching the piping to the fabric using a zipper foot on your sewing machine. You’ll then place the second panel of fabric right side together with the first, sandwiching the piping in between, and sew around the edges once again. Finally, turn the pillow right side out and finish it up with a hand-sewn or machine-sewn closure.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Sewing Piping on a Pillow
Materials You Will Need:
- Fabric for the pillow cover
- Pre-made piping or materials to make your own (cording and bias tape)
- Scissors or rotary cutter and mat
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Sewing pins or clips
- Sewing machine with a zipper foot
- Matching thread
- Iron and ironing board (optional)
- Hand sewing needle (if planning to hand-sew the closure)
Sewing piping onto a pillow can add a professional touch and highlight the pillow’s design. Begin by determining the size of your pillow and cut the fabric accordingly, including an extra inch on each side for a 1/2-inch seam allowance. If you’re making your own piping, cut bias strips of fabric that are wide enough to cover the cording plus the seam allowance, then wrap these strips around the cording and sew them closed.
Attaching the Piping:
- Start by pinning or clipping the piping around the edge of one of the pillow cover pieces on the right side of the fabric. Align the piping’s raw edges with the fabric’s raw edge.
- When you approach a corner, clip the piping’s seam allowance to allow it to turn smoothly, and continue pinning or clipping.
- Overlap the ends of the piping neatly by cutting one end of the piping’s fabric covering at an angle and folding it over the opposite end. This way, you can create a seamless transition.
- Using a zipper foot, sew the piping to the fabric as close to the piping as possible to ensure it fits snugly against the fabric. Take special care at the corners and overlaps.
Joining the Pillow Panels:
- Position the second pillow cover panel on top of the first, making sure the right sides are together and the piping is sandwiched in the middle.
- Pin or clip the second panel to the first, following the stitch line you created while attaching the piping. This will help the two panels align properly.
- Using the zipper foot, sew the two panels together. Follow the same line of stitching you made when sewing the piping or just inside it to ensure you catch all layers of fabric and the piping in your seam.
- For a neat finish and to reduce bulk, clip the corners at an angle being careful not to cut into your stitching.
- Turn the pillow right side out through the opening you’ve left, and use a point turner or similar tool to push out the corners.
Finishing Your Pillow:
To finish your pillow, you can choose to create a closure with a zipper, buttons, or simply sew it shut.
- If you’re adding a zipper, it’s easiest to insert it between the two panels of fabric before sewing the rest of the pillow together.
- For a sewn-shut closure, once you’ve filled your pillow with the insert, fold in the raw edges of the opening and pin them together so that they’re even with the sewn seams.
- Stitch the opening closed using a hand sewing needle and a ladder stitch or by sewing close to the edge with your sewing machine.
Ensure your thread matches the color of your fabric so that the stitches blend in. Press the pillow cover lightly with an iron if necessary for a crisp finish.
Additional Tips for Sewing Piping:
- Use a zipper foot on your sewing machine; it allows you to stitch closer to the cording within the piping.
- Practice sewing on scrap fabric if you’re new to sewing piping.
- For corners, sew slowly, and keep the piping in place to maintain a smooth curve.
- Ensure the piping color complements the fabric and enhances the overall design of the pillow.
- Consider making piping from the same fabric as the pillow for a monochromatic look.
- Be consistent with the seam allowance for a professional finish.
Finishing Thoughts
Sewing piping on a pillow can elevate the elegance and sophistication of your home decor. The process requires precision, a bit of patience, and attention to detail, but the results are undoubtedly rewarding. With the right materials, tools, and these step-by-step instructions, even beginners can tackle this project and end up with a beautifully crafted pillow that showcases their newfound sewing skills. Remember to take your time, especially at corners and when joining the ends of the piping. With each pillow you make, your technique will improve. Happy sewing!
