Views 509
Sewing piping with a zipper foot is straightforward and gives a polished look to my projects. First, I gather my piping cord, zipper foot, and compatible fabric. I cut the piping cord on the bias for flexibility and pin it against the fabric fold. After attaching the zipper foot, I adjust the needle to get close to the cording while I sew. I focus on even pressure and consistent distance as I stitch. Finally, I secure the piping ends and trim any excess fabric. For more techniques and tips, there’s plenty more to explore on this topic!
Materials Needed for Piping
To sew piping Im starting to put together what I need – cord, zipper foot, and fabric that will match my project.
I always make sure to select the appropriate type of piping cord, standard, crochet, or a specific yarn, which will affect texture and appearance.
A zipper foot is everything — it enables me to sew right up next to the cording with no trouble. I also remember to measure out my seam allowance because this ensures that the piping will fit beautifully into the lines of my design.
When all is said and done, I’m ready to polish the baby up a bit and give it that little extra shine that takes a project from good to great. I in turn save time and money sourcing all these supplies at the local craft stores.
Choosing the Right Fabric
But when I choose the fabric for piping, I always try to make sure it is in keeping with the main project fabric to add some extra va-va-va-voom.
I also think about weight and drape — a heavy fabric may require sturdier piping cord.
And if I’m going to be sewing on curves, I like the fabric to have a bit of stretch for an easier sew.
Fabric Compatibility With Piping
Fabric selection for the piping is so important, it should match (or coordinate) in color and texture to the main project fabric to get a consistent look. In general, I prefer my trims to be made of lightweight materials like cotton or that flowy linen above so that they’re easier to wrangle. When I’m piecing curved seams, I prefer fabric with some stretch to prevent puckering. Oh, also, I kind of try out my fabric and cording combinations in tiny pieces before I commit.
Here’s a quick reference table for fabric choices:
| Fabric Type |
Best For |
Notes |
| Cotton |
General sewing |
Lightweight and versatile |
| Linen |
Natural look |
Breathable and easy to sew |
| Stretch Knit |
Curved seams |
Prevents puckering |
| Canvas |
Heavier projects |
Use firmer cording |
| Denim |
Durable items |
Cut on bias for curves |
Texture and Weight Considerations
Choosing the proper texture and weight pip- Why’s\ub7 ing fabric can make a difference — both visually & functionally -in how your finished project looks.
I do find the lighter weight fabrics need a finer cord or string, and heavier ones can handle thicker cording to make them a little more sturdy.
The texture is also important (smooth fabric will make stitching easier and the finished result shinier, while a textured option may give you more pronounced-looking piping).
Be sure to factor in the drape of your fabric, too — stiffer fabrics yield structured piping, while softer ones create a more easygoing effect.
I am always sure to match the layers of fabric with the thickness of the piping cord for a neat result.
Experimenting with combinations on scrap pieces allows me to see how the components work together before beginning my project.
Preparing Piping Cord
To make the ideal piping for my project, I select the best kind of just what piping cord that will complement its look. This is what I remember while making the piping cord:
- Standard piping cord or Crochet Cord, depending on my project, design.
- Unique to Curved seems: I cut my cording on the bias, for flexibility.
- I want to match the size of some piping, so I determine how big that is, and multiply by two for the length of fabric to encase my cord.
- I trim the edges of the fabric to feel cleaner so it does not fray.
Well, with those pieces done, I’m good to roll!
Cutting Techniques for Piping
When cutting piping for my own projects, I always check if the seams are straight versus curved because it affects how well the cording can align and stretch.
Again, on the bias for curved seams to be sure your piping can curve without pulling. For simple seams, I cut the piping cord on the straight grain because it supports perfectly and aligns.
To calculate how wide I should cut the fabric for piping, I take the size of cording that I want (in this case, ¼ inch) and then multiply by two, adding in the seam allowance times two. I take care to measure well, as accurate cutting is key for a good fit and trim.
And I take the type of fabric into consideration so that I would use an appropriate cord for durability.
Attaching the Zipper Foot
Once the piping is cut to size, I add a zipper foot to my machine just to make sure I can get as close as possible.
Here’s how I do it:
- I begin by taking off the normal presser foot, while holding its screw free.
- Then I place the zipper foot onto my foot holder and screw it in nice and tight.
- I also make sure I have my zipper foot set correctly to the side for which I am sewing.
- I line up the presser foot with the cording to make sure I have an equal stitch.
This arrangement is the key to getting a professional finish!
Adjusting Needle Position
Moving the needle position to the right allows me to get really close placement of my piping, and ensures that the cording lays nice and flat against my fabric. I think this ease-of-adjustment is key to getting the cording close to, but not too tight against, the fabric.
With a zipper foot, I see to it that the edge of the presser foot is right next to the cording as I sew, so I can keep my seam allowance even. This tweak makes the action of cutting far more controllable with improved accuracy when cutting a curve or straight edge.
I also keep an eye on the needle position to be sure it stays true as I sew, and especially when transitioning between seam types. It is essential to get the needle position right to create professional looking piping that elevates the finish of my project.
Aligning Piping With Fabric
Aligning piping with fabric is key to achieving a polished look, and I start by placing the piping cord against the fabric fold to confirm it’s centered perfectly.
Here are some steps I follow to guarantee everything lines up beautifully:
- Pin the piping in place to secure it before stitching.
- Use the presser foot edge as a guide to maintain alignment.
- Adjust the needle position to the right to get close to the cording.
- Stitch continuously without shifting to avoid uneven seams.
Sewing the Piping
Now that I am using my zipper foot and the needle is correctly placed, I am ready to stitch in my piping.
I position the piping cord next to that fabric fold, and align the edge of your presser foot even with the cording so your seam will be closer to its center. And as I sew, I am keeping even pressure and the same distance apart from the cord to get a nice, neat finish.
I make sure to keep it stitched continuously until I’m at the end of my piping. And, it is important to be mindful of thread tension throughout this process (I pulled my top and bottom threads just a bit more after each prior pull) as the last thing I want is for anything to come undone.
I use a different colour thread in case it doens’t work the first time, now just for practise, and also just because I’ll probably change to a matching thread on the actual piece.
Selecting Appropriate Thread
I need to ensure I’m using the right thread so my piping will last as long for use and look equally good. So these are some of the main things that I’m thinking about:
- Visibility vs. Seamlessness: so for demos, use a contrasting thread, but match your final project with the type of fabric you are using?
- Compatibility: Ensure the thread type is ideal for my fabric and piping cord.
- Tension is Key: I have good thread tension to prevent stitching from being too loose or too tight.
- Quality of the Thread Matters: Using high-quality thread will ensure your piping won’t rip very easily.
Tips for Finishing Touches
Before adding the piping, I always trim off any excess fabric at the ends so it has a nice finish.
Then I press the piping seams open with a pressing cloth. This step will add a professional look to your work, and ensure a greater bond between the paint and fabric.
I keep thinking of hand-stitching the ends of my piping down so they look tidy instead of fraying from when you’ve sewn through it.
Or to make the piping pop, I topstitch with a decorative stitch or different color thread on the edge of my project, and it makes such a professional look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Sew Piping With a Zipper Foot?
Yes, I can sew piping with a zipper foot. It allows me to stitch closely next to the cording without any fabric catching, ensuring a neat, professional finish on my projects.
How Do You Sew Piping Without a Piping Foot?
Sewing piping without a piping foot feels like dancing on a tightrope. I position my zipper foot close to the cording, adjust the needle right, and keep my stitching steady for a clean finish.
What Sewing Foot to Use for Piping?
I prefer using a zipper foot for piping. It lets me stitch closely to the cording without obstruction. I find that adjusting the needle position helps me achieve a neat, professional finish every time.
How to Use an Adjustable Zipper Piping Foot?
Using an adjustable zipper piping foot is like guiding a ship through narrow waters. I attach it, adjust the needle, and align the cord with the fabric, ensuring smooth, continuous stitching for a flawless finish.
Conclusion
When the last bit of piping was sewn closed, I felt a thrill. Would it be like in my dreams?
I inhaled deeply and turned the fabric over to expose the clean, crisp edges. I started to tremble as I was soon to unveil my masterpiece, grunting in excitement.
With a tiny bit more work to do, I just knew that the final reveal would make each second spent sewing this beauty totally worth it!
Like this:
Like Loading...
Related
