Three ways to Conceal Raw Edges in Upholstery

Antonia Marino
Three ways to Conceal Raw Edges in Upholstery

When it comes to upholstering furniture, one of the challenges is hiding the staples or tacks that hold the fabric in place on furniture with an exposed wooden frame. While staples or tacks are necessary to ensure that the fabric stays in place, they can be unsightly and detract from the overall appearance of the piece. Luckily, there are several methods for hiding staples or tacks that can help give your furniture a more polished look.

Gimp Braid

One method for hiding staples or tacks is to use a decorative trim called gimp braid. This trim is a narrow band of woven ribbon that is often used to add a finishing touch to upholstery projects. To use gimp trim to hide staples or tacks, simply attach the trim over the staples or tacks with fabric glue, hot glue, or gimp pins. The trim will not only cover the staples or tacks but will also add a decorative element to the piece.

Gold coloured gimp braid trim

 

Decorative Nails

Another methods for hiding staples or tacks is to use either decorative nails or decorative nailhead trim.

If you are brave enough, use single chair nails.  You have a lot of control over the spacing when using single nails and there are lots of design and size options. They do take longer to install, and it can take a bit of practice to keep each one looking straight. A nail setter tool is very helpful to keep your lines and spaces even.

Nailhead trim is a strip of dummy decorative nails that are attached together as a long strip. They are installed using a matching single nail that fits over some of the dummy nails. The trim will cover the existing staples or tacks and add a decorative element to the piece. 

Double Welt

Double welt trim, also known as double piping, is a popular choice for adding a polished finish to upholstery projects. This trim consists of a strip of fabric wrapped around two rows of piping, with a stitch line between them. The cord adds depth and definition to the trim, making it stand out from the surrounding fabric. Double welt trim can be used to cover raw edges and seams, creating a professional and finished look. It can also be used as a decorative accent, adding contrast or complementing the fabric of the upholstered piece. 

Double welt piping for concealing raw edges during upholstering chair

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