How to Make a Double Welt Cord for Upholstery Projects

Add a classic, polished finish to your next upholstery project with a custom double welt cord. Also known as double cording, this trim features two rows of piping side by side. It's a versatile finishing element commonly used in upholstery to hide staples and cover raw fabric edges where they meet the chair frame. With this quick tutorial, you'll learn how to make your own double welt cord—it’s easier than you think! All you need are a few supplies and a specialty presser foot for your sewing machine.

What Is Double Welt Cord?

Double welt cord (or double cording) is a decorative trim that creates a neat, tailored edge on upholstered furniture. It’s often used to conceal staples or raw edges where fabric meets the furniture frame, giving your piece a professional, finished look.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Double Welt Cord

At Sailrite®, we offer all the materials you need to make this project easy. For this tutorial, we’re using Firm Double Welting Cord, which has two attached cords, streamlining the process. While you can create double welt cord by sewing two rows of traditional piping together, using pre-attached cord speeds things up so you can get started right away.

In our video tutorial, we demonstrate how to sew double welt cord using a double cording foot. This specialty presser foot has two tunnels that accommodate the double welt cord, ensuring a professional finish. It’s compatible with several sewing machines, including the Ultrafeed® LS, Leatherwork®, Sailrite 111, Fabricator®, and Big-N-Tall models. While you can use a standard foot, the double cording foot creates a more defined channel between the cords for a cleaner look.

Watch the video tutorial below to follow the step-by-step process!

Materials You’ll Need:

• Firm 5/32" Double Welting Cord (#107034)
• Double Cording Foot Set for Ultrafeed® LS & Leatherwork® (#120121)
• Décor or upholstery fabric
• Coats & Clark™ Dual Duty XP® General Purpose Thread
• Hot Melt Acrylic Glue Sticks (#102210) for attaching the finished cord

Once your double welt cord is ready, use a strong adhesive like Hot Melt Acrylic Glue to attach it over the staples on your furniture for a seamless finish.

Share Your Experience!

Have you ever used double welt cord in your upholstery projects? Did you make it yourself? Share your tips, tricks, and experiences in the comments below!