Things You'll Need:
- Fabric
- Piping
- Measuring tape
- Scissors
- Sewing machine
- Safety pin
- Protractor
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Step 1
Cut a strip of fabric along the bias of the material. The strip should measure 1/2 inch wider than the desired circumference of the finished cording and two inches longer than the desired length.
If the pattern you are using does not specify a cording length or you are adding cording to an existing garment, use a measuring tape to find the length. Measure the length of the edge of the garment where you plan to apply the cording, and add two inches. Use that length when you cut the material for your cording.
Cutting on the bias means to cut the fabric on a 45-degree angle to the cross-grain of the fabric. If you are not familiar with cutting on the bias, see the resource link "Bias Basics," below, for further explanation. -
Step 2
Fold the fabric strip in half along the length of the fabric, with right sides facing.
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Step 3
Stitch the folded fabric using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Backstitch at the beginning and the end to reinforce the seam.
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Step 4
Turn the fabric right side out. To do this you will use the safety pin like a needle to guide the fabric. Fasten the safety pin to one edge of the fabric and push it into the fabric tube. Use the safety pin to work the fabric right side out by gathering and pulling tight. Remove the safety pin when done.
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Step 5
Insert the piping: push the piping into one end of the fabric tube and work the material over the piping until it is fully inserted. Gathering the material over the edge of the piping and then pulling it tight is an effective way of accomplishing this.
