What is the Piping Foot
The piping foot has a groove on the underside that holds the piping cord in place while you sew. It allows you to create piping and attach it to the fabric edge in one operation. The groove keeps the cord centered and prevents it from shifting, producing consistent, professional piping.
PHOTO: Piping foot showing the groove on the underside and the needle slot.
Which Machine It Fits
Single needle lockstitch machines. Common models: Juki DDL-8700, Brother S-7200. Available in different groove sizes: 3mm, 5mm, and larger for upholstery. Left and right versions for different piping positions. Hinged versions are available for easier fabric handling over thick areas.
PHOTO: Piping foot mounted on a Juki DDL-8700, close-up of the cord groove and needle.
Key Features
Groove on the underside for the cord. Different groove diameters (3mm, 5mm). Left and right versions. Hinged version for thick fabric. Creates consistent piping width. Works on bags, cushions, garments, and home textiles.
PHOTO: Close-up of the 3mm groove and how the cord sits inside it.
Practical Example 1 — Bag Edge Piping
On a canvas tote bag, 3mm piping is attached to the top edge. The operator places the piping cord in the groove, sandwiches it between the bag fabric and a facing strip, and sews. The groove holds the cord centered, producing a straight, even piping line.
PHOTO: Piping being attached to a canvas bag edge with the piping foot, cord in the groove.
Practical Example 2 — Cushion Cover Piping
On a cushion cover, piping runs around all four edges. The piping foot holds the cord while the operator sews the front and back panels together. The corners are pivoted carefully, and the piping stays consistent.
PHOTO: Cushion cover piping with the piping foot, showing the corner pivot.
Practical Example 3 — Garment Decorative Piping
On a dress or jacket, decorative piping is inserted in a seam. The piping foot keeps the cord aligned with the seam line. The result is a clean, professional decorative line.
PHOTO: Decorative piping in a garment seam with the piping foot.
Practical Example 4 — Making Piping
To make piping, cut a bias strip, wrap it around the cord, and sew close to the cord using the piping foot. The foot's groove holds the cord while the bias strip is stitched. The finished piping is then attached to the garment in a second pass.
PHOTO: Making piping with the piping foot, bias strip wrapping the cord.
Why Use It Instead of Standard Foot
A standard foot cannot hold the cord in place. The cord shifts, and the piping becomes uneven. The piping foot's groove keeps the cord centered, producing consistent piping every time. It also allows one-pass attachment, saving time.
Common Mistakes
Using the wrong groove size for the cord. Not placing the cord fully into the groove. Sewing too fast and losing the cord. Not pivoting carefully at corners. Using a left foot when a right foot is needed.
When to Use It
Use the piping foot for any operation that involves piping: bag edges, cushion covers, garment seams, upholstery, and decorative edges. It is essential for any factory producing piped products.