Cording can add a beautiful effect to many designs, especially if it is made correctly. Although it may look difficult to make Cording, it really is quite simple if you follow these steps.
Step 1
Thread your needle with the number of strands listed in the key, and slide the needle to the middle of the strands. Tape one end of the strands to the edge of a counter or table.Step 2
Hold the other end of the strands with your hands and begin to twist the strands. You will need to twist the strands about 80 to 100 times. If the strands are not twisted enough, your Cording will look loose and uneven and will unwind as you stitch with it.Step 3
Grab the needle with one hand. Take your other hand and bring the end of the strands you are holding over to the taped end (while still holding onto the needle).Step 4
Pull the taped strands out from underneath the tape and put the loose ends together.Step 5
Release the needle and allow the strands to twist.Step 6
While holding the loose ends together, run your fingers along the length of the Cording to make the twists look smooth and even.Step 7
Knot the loose ends together to keep them from untwisting. This is important! If you don't knot the ends together, the Cording will unravel as you stitch.Step 8
To stitch with the Cording, come up through the fabric and lay the Cording in position (usually there will be lines on the chart to show where the Cording should lay).Step 9
Using another needle, tack the Cording in place with one strand of matching thread. Space the tacking stitches approximately 1" apart or where the angle of the Cording changes.Step 10
To end the Cording, go down through the fabric and knot the Cording close to the back of the fabric. Trim the excess.Step 11
If you are not going to be stitching with the Cording (for example, if you are making Cording to use as an ornament hanger), you will not need to thread a needle onto the strands before you start. Instead of grabbing the needle with your hand, you will just grab the middle of the strands.Step 12
This shows the Cording on a finished piece.Tips for Better Cording:
- Twist those strands! A good estimate is about 80 to 100 times, but that amount may vary depending upon the length and number of strands you are using (for example, the shorter the length or the greater the number of strands = fewer twists).
- Make sure to knot the loose ends together before you try to work with your Cording.
- When tacking the Cording in place, be careful not to pull the tacking stitches too tightly.