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Trimmings & Lace

Trimmings & Lace

Trimmings are the finishing touches that lift a sewing project, and this collection brings them together in one place. You'll find lace edgings, broderie anglaise and guipure lace alongside ric rac, fringing, piping cord, braid and woven labels.

Whether you're edging a neckline, adding piping to a cushion or trimming a hem, there's something here to finish it neatly. Most trims are sold by the metre, so buy the length your project needs.

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The right trim adds detail, colour and a professional finish to dressmaking, craft and soft-furnishing projects. This collection covers a wide spread of trimmings, from delicate lace to practical piping cord, so it helps to know the main families and how each is used.

Types of trim in this collection

  • Lace edging: decorative lace, including broderie anglaise and guipure, for necklines, sleeves, hems and lingerie.
  • Stretch lace: elasticated lace for comfortable edges on jersey and underwear.
  • Ric rac and braid: woven zig-zag and flat braids for decorative borders and trims.
  • Piping and flanged cord: inserted into seams for a crisp, defined edge on garments and cushions.
  • Fringing and labels: fringe trims for movement and woven sew-in labels to finish handmade pieces.

How to use trims

Lace edging can be topstitched to a hem or neckline, or set between two pieces of fabric as an insertion. Piping cord is sandwiched in a seam with the flange hidden inside, which is easiest with a zipper or piping foot. Stretch lace works best on knit fabrics where it can move with the garment. Ric rac and braid can be stitched on top as a surface decoration or caught into a seam so only the points show.

Choosing and caring for trims

Check the width and fibre on each product page so the trim suits your fabric and the way you'll wash the finished item. Cotton laces and trims can usually be washed with the garment, while some decorative trims are more delicate, so follow the care guidance on the product page. Buy a little extra to allow for corners, seams and joins.

What is the difference between broderie anglaise and guipure lace?

Broderie anglaise is a cotton trim with cutwork eyelets and embroidered edges, light and crisp with a traditional look. Guipure lace has no net background; the motifs are joined directly to each other, giving a heavier, more sculptural finish. Both work as edgings, but guipure makes more of a statement.

How do you sew lace trim onto fabric?

Lace edging is usually pinned in place and topstitched close to the edge, either on top of a hem or neckline, or set between two layers as an insertion. Take it slowly around curves and corners. A sample run on a fabric offcut helps you get the stitch placement right before working on the garment.

Is the lace in this collection stretchy?

Some of it is. The collection includes both non-stretch lace, best for woven fabrics and fixed edges, and stretch lace, which is elasticated and designed for jersey, underwear and anywhere the trim needs to move. Check the product page to see which type a particular lace is.

How do you attach piping cord?

Piping is placed along the seam line with the covered cord facing inwards and the flat flange tucked into the seam allowance, then stitched in place, ideally with a zipper or piping foot so you can sew close to the cord. When the seam is turned right side out, the piping sits neatly along the edge.

Can you wash and iron lace and trims?

Cotton laces and trims can usually be washed and pressed along with the garment, but some decorative and metallic trims are more delicate. Check the fibre and care guidance on the individual product page, and press with a cool iron and a cloth if you're unsure.

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