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Piping tape is a special edge tape used to sew two pieces of fabric together with an extra small edge. It is also known as a peep tape, as the end of the tape peeks out from the edge of the seam. This can be seen in duvet covers, pillowcases, pajamas, bags, etc. where the edge stands out and may create a nice contrast to the rest of the fabric.

The ribbon has a thin side for sewing and a thick side where the edge has a slight curve. This is what sticks out during sewing and makes a kind of string that peeks out all the way around the edge.

What types of piping tape are available?

Piping tape is available in different materials, which you need to choose depending on the fabric you're sewing it with. Different materials are also best suited to different patterns, so it's best to make sure you know what the pattern instructions say before you buy the piping tape. It makes the project easier to sew and the finished product looks better if you use the most compatible ribbon.

Cotton

Piping tape is available in cotton. Here you get a thick and durable tape that works with most fabric types. Especially if you need to sew a cover for pillows or duvets, a good cotton piping tape is a good idea. The covers are often cotton, so the two are compatible. Cotton is great for projects with long straight edges, where the ribbon needs to be stable to sew on the edges and tie everything together.

Cotton also has a matte quality for a simple look. However, you can choose a ribbon in a color that contrasts with the fabric to make the stitching edge stand out.

Nylon

If you need piping tape to make necklines, collars, pockets or anything with a lot of curves, you can choose a nylon tape with stretch instead. This makes it easier to get around the nooks and crannies as the sewn-on part of the tape is elastic. Nylon has a glossier finish that highlights the collar or pockets. This makes the lines on the garment stand out and you can also contrast colors with this tape.

Piping tape DIY!

You can sew piping tape onto your projects at home. It adds an incredibly beautiful touch to your home sewing projects, and it's not as difficult as you might think. Below you can read a short guide on how to sew your own cushion cover with a beautiful ribbon. However, it's always a good idea to make a few samples before you start, where you can practice sewing on the ribbon and making nice curves and corners.

Sew piping on pillowcases

Once you have cut two squares to the right size with an extra centimeter for sewing, place the piping tape along the edge of one piece of fabric. It should lie on the right side of the fabric, with the thinnest part of the tape against the edge of the fabric. This is the side where you will sew the tape in place.

Once you have sewn the ribbon onto one piece of fabric, with room for a zipper on one side, place the other piece of fabric right on top. It should be right sides together, so you sew it all on the wrong side. Then sew the second piece of fabric on using the same stitching as before, so that the covers are the same width on both sides. Finally, sew in the zippers with piping tape on one side and a normal seam on the other.

Sew sharp corners

When you get to the corner, cut a single slit or a few pieces at the edge of the tape about a centimeter or two before you reach the corner. Then turn the ribbon so that it lies along the next edge and the ribbon follows the corner nicely. Next, sew at a sharp angle with the machine so that the ribbon shapes itself accordingly.

Remember to cut off the extra fabric in the corner when you've finished sewing the cover so that it's perfectly sharp.

Buy Piping tape online with us

We offer a selection of tapes in different colors and materials. The ribbons are of good quality and at an affordable price. This means you can decorate your projects with beautiful edges and give them a special touch without spending a lot of money.

Unleash your creativity and buy everything you need in one place. If you're new to crafting, you can buy all the tools and materials you need from us. Then just get started.