Mastering the Art of Tubing Outside of Pillow in Sewing

Mastering the Art of Tubing Outside of Pillow in Sewing

When it comes to sewing, few skills are as rewarding as mastering the art of tubing. This technique not only enhances the aesthetics of various projects but also adds a professional touch that can elevate your DIY sewing game. Whether you’re designing decorative pillows, updating your home decor, or diving into upholstery sewing, understanding how to incorporate tubing can transform your sewing projects. In this article, we’ll explore various tubing techniques, offer crafting tips, and inspire your creativity with unique pillow design ideas.

Understanding Tubing in Sewing

Tubing in sewing refers to the process of creating a fabric tube, often filled with a material like cording or foam, to add dimension and structure to your projects. It’s commonly used in decorative pillows, where it can serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. By learning how to properly create and incorporate tubing, you can achieve a polished look that sets your work apart.

Essential Tools and Materials

Before diving into your sewing projects involving tubing, it’s crucial to gather the right tools and materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Fabric: Choose a fabric that complements your design. Cotton, linen, and upholstery fabrics are great choices.
• Cording: This is what you’ll use to fill the tubes. It comes in various sizes and materials, from cotton to polyester.
• Sewing Machine: A reliable machine with an adjustable stitch length will make the process smoother.
• Scissors: Invest in good quality fabric scissors for clean cuts.
• Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are key to a successful project.
• Safety Pins or Clips: These will help keep your fabric in place while you sew.
• Iron: Pressing your fabric before sewing ensures crisp edges and a professional finish.

Creating Your Tubing

Now that you have your materials ready, let’s dive into the process of creating tubing:

1. Cut Your Fabric: Start by cutting a strip of fabric. The width will determine the final size of your tubing, so plan accordingly.
2. Fold and Pin: Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, right sides together. Pin along the open edge to keep everything secure.
3. Sew the Edge: Using a straight stitch, sew along the pinned edge, leaving the ends open. Make sure to backstitch at the start and end for durability.
4. Turn It Inside Out: Carefully turn your tube right side out. A turning tool can be handy here, especially if your tubing is narrow.
5. Insert the Cording: Measure and cut your cording to the same length as your tubing. Use a safety pin to help guide the cording through the tube.
6. Finish the Ends: Fold in the raw edges of the open ends and sew them closed, securing the cording inside.

Incorporating Tubing into Pillow Design

With your tubing ready, it’s time to incorporate it into your pillow design. Here are some creative ways to do this:

• Accent Pillows: Use tubing along the edges of your decorative pillows for a chic, finished look.
• Fringed Pillows: Create a fringed effect by using multiple tubes of varying lengths and attaching them to your pillow front.
• Textured Patterns: Experiment with different fabrics and colors of tubing to create unique patterns and textures.

Crafting Tips for Success

As with any skill, practice makes perfect. Here are some crafting tips to ensure your tubing projects are successful:

• Choose the Right Fabric: Lightweight fabrics are easier to work with for beginners, while heavier fabrics may require more skill.
• Don’t Rush: Take your time with each step, especially when sewing and turning your tubing.
• Experiment! Don’t be afraid to try different sizes and styles of tubing in your projects. Creativity often leads to the best designs.
• Follow Tutorials: There are many great resources online where you can find video tutorials and step-by-step guides.

Upholstery Sewing and Tubing

For those interested in upholstery sewing, tubing can be an essential technique. It can be used to create cushions, enhance chair backs, or even as decorative elements on larger pieces. Here’s how tubing can elevate your upholstery projects:

• Reinforce Edges: Use tubing to reinforce the edges of cushions, giving them a tailored finish.
• Design Elements: Incorporate contrasting tubing colors to create visual interest on upholstered furniture.
• Durability: Tubing can help protect the seams of upholstered pieces, prolonging their lifespan.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of tubing outside of pillow design opens up a world of possibilities for your sewing projects. Whether you’re a seasoned seamstress or a curious beginner, incorporating tubing can enhance your home decor and DIY sewing endeavors. With the right tools, a little practice, and a sprinkle of creativity, you’ll be able to create stunning decorative pillows and upholstery pieces that are not only functional but also speak to your personal style. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to explore the fabulous world of tubing in sewing!

FAQs

1. What type of fabric is best for making tubing?

Lightweight cotton or linen fabrics are great for beginners, while upholstery fabrics are ideal for more durable projects.

2. Can I use tubing in other sewing projects besides pillows?

Absolutely! Tubing can be used in various projects, including bags, upholstery, and even garments for added structure.

3. How do I choose the right cording size for my tubing?

The cording size should be proportional to the width of the tubing. Generally, a thicker fabric calls for thicker cording.

4. Is it difficult to sew tubing into upholstery projects?

With practice, it becomes easier. Start with simpler projects to build your confidence before tackling larger upholstery items.

5. Where can I find more tutorials on sewing techniques?

Online platforms like YouTube and sewing blogs are excellent resources for video tutorials and step-by-step guides.

6. How can I ensure my tubing is durable?

Use quality materials, secure your seams with backstitching, and choose the appropriate thickness of cording for your project.

For more insights on sewing techniques, check out this comprehensive guide. And for inspirational DIY projects, visit this creative blog.

This article is in the category Decor and created by mypillowdreams Team