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tcipollina

Dining Chair Upholstery Trim Advice, a DIY Project

2 months ago
last modified: 2 months ago

I’m struggling with finding a trim for my chair backs to cover staples. I’ve looked extensively into premade piping and found an option I liked. However, I found it difficult to get tight corners and it was suggested by a designer that I use a flat trim or nail head strips. Most 1/4" flat trims they carry are too ornate for my taste.

I’m looking for a clean, minimal style that complements the material and provides a tailored finish. Something flat, simple, proportinate in size and understated—nothing ornate, braided, or twisted rope-like. I’m aiming for a flush, clean edge with precise corners. The trim should sit flat and follow the square corners without any rounding. This is a DIY project — no sewing, application by hot glue. I will need approximately 4 yards per chair x 8. Preferably under $10/yard.

Suggestions and examples (any visuals) are appreciated.

Photos for reference: 1) Left is reupholstered dining chair (Crypton performance polyester blend, color is Olive Jar), Right is original (peeling faux leather with nailhead trim).

2) Pre made piping sample, 1/4” (mentioned above and photo for style reference).





Comments (11)

  • 2 months ago

    That is a very pretty fabric. Is it possible to take some of that sane fabric to an upholstery shop and have them make you the piping?

  • 2 months ago

    I've never reupholstered anything before - does piping come in a size smaller than 1/4" (or do you need 1/4" to cover up the staples?)


    I like the fabric with the color of the wood. Have you done many reupholstering projects? I'd like to have two chairs done (visitor chairs in my study). I don't know how difficult it is to do on a fairly simple style chair.

  • 2 months ago

    Thank you. I am trying to avoid using piping so I can have more precise corners. I think 1/4" is the smallest I can use that will cover the staples and be proportionate with the chair. Most flat trim option are more fancy than I'd like -- not sure if there's anything out there I could consider using.

    I have only upholstered my bar stools and now dining chairs. I have to say using a pneumatic stapler makes it much easier than a standard electric stapler. Most of the tedious work is pulling nailheads and staples from the seat. It's not perfect but it's good enough for my use!. LOL

  • 2 months ago

    Found this on Amazon, looks like a nice velvet. Not sure on width 3/8”. I have mastered recovering counter stools too! You’re doing great!

  • 2 months ago

    Thank you! I will check these out.

  • 2 months ago

    Here is a picture of my kitchen chair, which is similair to yours. Double welting was used using matching fabric. I have upholstered small projects like this and you can use hot glue to secure. If you have a sewing machine, you can sew your own double welt. It’s important that the welt fabric be cut on the bias (on an angle) because it allows the fabric to stetch around the corners. The welting cord itself is available in different diameters and stiffness.



    tcipollina thanked ratherbesewing
  • PRO
    2 months ago


    Would something like this trim work for you?

    tcipollina thanked Norwood Architects
  • PRO
    2 months ago

    I always make my own piping in the same fabric I do not like that one you show so maybe the nail head is the answer

  • 2 months ago

    Nice project with your fabric choice and upholstering work. I'd also go for trim in the same fabric to maintain the same modern feel. Sew it yourself or get a shop to do it, if necessary.

  • 2 months ago

    Thank you all for feedback. I do not sew nor do I have a sewing machine. Having trim the same material as the chair is the preferred option but I've had difficulty finding someone before I started the project. Hence, the reason i was looking for something pre-made and easy for me to work with. I am continuing to search as well as order samples of other trims as suggested.

  • 2 months ago

    I’m so impressed that you can DIY this! It’s a nice fabric, and you’re doing great. The trim sample you show is ok, but the beige is kind of bland. Any chance you could find that trim in a blue-green that complements the fabric better?