Cove,

Even though I just started sewing last December, cording is one of my obsessions so I think I can offer you some advice. I don't think there are any hard and fast rules about cord sizes. But I like the standard 5/32" cord which gives a nice traditional look, not too big or too small. The 4/32" cord would also work, but I think 3/32" is just too small for a bedspread or cornice.

Of course, a lot depends on how much impact you want your cording to have. And don't forget to consider the thickness of the fabric you're covering the cord with. A 1/4" cord would give a more dramatic look on a bedspread or cornice. But I think 1/2" would be too big, though it's perfect for throw pillows or a round tablecloth.

Anyway cord is ridiculously cheap -- 29 or 39 cents a yard, and that's the full retail price. It's easy to buy a few yards of each size, whip up some sample pipings and test them out. And you'll always be able to use any left over cord on another project.

Incidentally, I like to iron a crease running down the middle of the fabric I'm covering the cord with. I also run a fabric glue stick down the center crease and along one of the edges. This way the covering fabric doesn't wiggle around the cord as I sew it. I'm not sure if anyone else uses these tricks. But when I tried them for the first time last week, I got very professional results.

By the way, be sure to use a good zipper foot when you make your cording and sew it to your project. A Pearls & Piping foot also gives great results on 4/32" or 5/32" cord but really doesn't work for anything larger. Have fun.

Hey Nancy,

Thanks for the great info. If 5/32" is good for a traditional look I think I will look into getting that.