A step-by-step double piping guide for chair upholstery

A few weeks ago on the blog, we talked about how to master single piping. So, no surprises, next up in the masterclass is double piping. A slightly more elaborate version of single piping, double piping is one row of trim that is two rows of single piping sewn together. It’s a common finishing element that is often used to hide staples and the raw edges where your fabric meets the chair frame and will take your projects to the next level. Here’s how you do it…

Step-by-step to perfect double piping

1. Measure the section of your chair that you need double piping for – the same as you would for single piping. This time though, cut your strips two inches wide so it can accommodate the two strips of piping cord.

2. Start off by using your single piping foot to sew the first section of double piping. Place the single piping cord on the fabric and fold over (but NOT in half as you did for single piping). Keep it to the left edge of the fabric and fold over enough that the stitch line closes the cord within the fabric strip.

3) Once you’ve sewn your length of single piping, remove it from the machine and cut away the excess overlap.

4) Now it’s time to change the foot on your machine and attach your double piping foot to your sewing machine. Place your next length of piping cord onto the fabric against the single piping already sewn and fold the fabric over. You need to make sure you catch both piping cords into the fabric and butt them up against each other.

Top Tip

A double piping foot for your sewing machine is well worth the investment. You can sew double piping by hand, but at approximately £12, a double piping foot will save you loads of time and give a great, neat finish.

5) Place your wrapped fabric under the double piping foot and make sure you’re happy the two piping cords are tightly wrapped. Then, carefully start to sew, taking sections at a time and making sure you’re tightly turning over the fabric as you go.

6) Once you’ve finished, you need to cut away the excess and there you have your double piping cord – all ready to attach to your project with a glue gun and pins.

7) As with single piping, always check that the piping fits the piece of furniture before you attach it. You don’t want to get near the end and realise that you’ve made a mistake with your measurements. When you’re sure, attach the beginning of your piping, making sure that it will be hidden under the frame of the chair. Attach slowly, carefully and securely for the perfect finish.

If you need a refresher on single piping, you can check out my masterclass in my previous blog. Keep an eye out for more of your other most essential upholstery skills – here on the blog soon. Contact me to sign up to the Vintique Upholstery newsletter and get the latest tips, news and stories delivered straight to your inbox.

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