Piping and Welting
Structure, contour and design directly within the seam
Piping, welting or corded trims are textile design elements that add structure and colour to or within a product. They are created by inserting a core – also referred to as a cord – into a tape and stitching it firmly in place. This results in a clearly defined, tactile and visible raised contour that highlights seams, structures surfaces and adds depth to the finished product. Piping combines functionality and design and is an integral component of high-quality textile manufacturing.
What are piping cords and where are they used?
Piping cords, often referred to as piping tape or welting, are made-up textile tapes with an integrated core. This core largely determines the shape, diameter and behaviour of the piping within the product. Piping is sewn directly into the seam, where it either remains intentionally visible or is used to emphasise specific contours.
They are used wherever textile products need to be structured, visually enhanced or functionally complemented – without the need for additional components or separate reinforcements.
A design element with functional added value
Piping is not merely a decorative detail but often fulfils additional functions. It can stabilise seams, create clean transitions or serve as a tactile guide element. With its clear line definition, it supports product design and makes shapes and contours deliberately perceptible.
Depending on the choice of material, piping can also provide further properties. For example, reflective materials can be integrated to increase visibility and safety. In such versions, piping is deliberately used as a functional element – particularly in technical or safety-related applications.
Construction and variants
The construction of piping is defined by the interaction between the tape material and the core. The core can be designed in very different ways. Depending on the end product, firm or soft cores are used – ranging from dimensionally stable solutions for heavily stressed applications such as car floor mats to soft, flexible variants for duvets and pillows.
In addition, it is possible to deliberately avoid firmly fixing the inserted cord. In such versions, the cord remains movable and can be used as a functional element, for example for tightening or tensioning. This variant is used, for instance, in covers or seat cushions where textile surfaces need to be secured or gathered.
Multiple versions are also possible. Double or triple piping as well as combinations of different colours and materials create individual solutions with a clearly defined design effect.
Material selection and processing
Piping can be manufactured on different textile bases, including woven tapes as well as warp-knit or knitted constructions. The choice of material influences the handle, elasticity and appearance of the piping and is always considered in relation to the final product.
It is essential that the piping can be sewn in reliably and integrated smoothly into the overall production process. Dimensional stability, consistent quality and reproducible processing are key priorities.
Custom solutions for series production and special applications
Piping from Krass+Wissing is developed according to customer specifications. Dimensions, materials and constructions can be flexibly adapted – both for serial products and for specialised applications. The possibility of combining different materials enables solutions that meet functional requirements as well as design expectations.
Typical fields of application
Piping is used, among others, in:
- mattresses and toppers
- pillows and duvets
- upholstered and seating furniture
- automotive floor mats
- workwear and protective clothing
- custom solutions
In summary
Piping from Krass+Wissing combines textile structure, defined contours and functional properties. It brings design directly into the seam, can be individually tailored to the final product and provides both visual and technical added value – durable, flexible and process-reliable.