Fabric Trimmings

 

Popular Trimming Types

Trimmings come in endless styles, each designed to give your project a polished finish or decorative edge. Our range covers everything from delicate lace to functional elastics, ensuring there’s a trim to suit every garment, accessory, or decor project.

Lace Trims for Sewing

A timeless choice, lace trims add delicate detail and sophistication. From guipure lace with bold motifs to fine cotton lace trims and venise lace with a scalloped edge, lace is the perfect fabric trim for bridal wear, evening gowns, and romantic blouses. Ruffle lace and corded lace bring texture and dimension, while narrow or broad lace borders can be used for hems or sleeves.

Ribbons & Ribbon Accents

Ribbons add colour and texture to everything from dresses to crafts. Use satin ribbon for a glossy finish, grosgrain ribbon for structure, or organza ribbon for a soft, sheer detail. Ribbon accents can be stitched as decorative edging, tied into bows for accessories, or layered as decorative borders.

Piping & Cords

For structure and definition, piping cords and fabric piping highlight seams, collars, and cuffs. They’re popular in both fashion and interiors, especially for upholstery trimmings where strength and neatness matter. Piping adds contrast to cushions or tailored jackets, turning a simple seam into a design feature.

Fringe Trims

Fringe trims bring movement and fun to garments and décor alike. From flapper-inspired dresses to cushions with playful tassels, fringe adds texture and personality. Upholstery fringe trims are often used on curtains and lampshades to achieve a luxury finish.

Applique & Decorative Motifs

Appliqué lace and embroidery motifs can be used as fabric patches to let you customise garments or craft projects. From floral applique lace for evening wear to bold decorative patches for casual jackets or bags, these sewing embellishments are a creative way to personalise your designs.

Elastic & Functional Trims

Not all trimmings are decorative, some are practical. Waistband elastic, hem tape, bias binding, and quilt binding are staples for sewing projects. These trims provide stretch and clean seam finishes, helping garments retain shape while remaining easy to wear.

Embellishments & Decorative Details

Add sparkle and texture with sequins and beaded trims. Whether used sparingly on hems or lavishly across bodices, embellished trimmings are the go-to for costumes and festive craft projects. These decorative appliqué details turn fabric into something spectacular.

 

Choosing the Right Trimmings

Selecting the right trim depends on your fabric, project type, and design goals. Here’s what to consider:

• Fabric Compatibility: Lightweight fabrics suit narrow lace or ribbon detail, while heavier woven fabrics pair well with fringe trims or piping cords.
  
  

• Function vs. Decoration: Decide whether your trim is purely decorative (sequins, lace borders) or functional (bias binding, waistband elastic).
  
  

• Texture & Style: Match cotton lace trims with natural fibres for a cohesive look, or use shiny polyester blends for contrast.
  
  

• Durability: Upholstery projects call for strong trimmings like piping and fringe, while delicate lace borders are better suited to garments.
  
  

• Colour & Finish: Trims come in neutral whites, bold shades, patterns, or metallic finishes. Samples are invaluable for ensuring colours and textures match your base fabric.
  
  
  
  

Trimmings by the Metre & Samples

At Cheap Fabrics, we sell fabric trims by the metre, so you only buy the amount you need. Whether you’re finishing a single hem or embellishing multiple garments, ordering by the metre keeps your project cost-effective and sustainable.

To make your decision easier, samples are available for most trims. Ordering a small piece lets you:

• Feel the quality and texture in hand
  

• Compare colours in natural and indoor lighting
  

• Check scale and proportion against your base fabric
  
  

This way, you can approach your project with confidence, knowing your trims will match perfectly.

Why Shop Trimmings at Cheap Fabrics?

• Huge variety of trimmings, from lace and piping to fringe, ribbons, and applique motifs
  

• Competitive pricing to make quality trims and lace accessible for all makers
  

• Samples available for most trims, so you can buy with confidence
  

• Fast UK delivery with reliable service
  

• A trusted supplier, backed by decades of textile expertise
  
  

Shop online with confidence and add the perfect finishing touches to your project today. View our material bulk buy range for larger purchases.

FAQs

Q: What are trimmings used for?

A: Trimmings are finishing details like lace, cords, piping, or ribbon used to enhance garments, crafts, upholstery, and soft furnishings. They can be both decorative and functional.

Q: Can I buy trimmings by the metre?

A: Yes, all our trimmings are sold by the metre, so you only buy what you need.

Q: Do you sell lace trims for sewing?

A: Absolutely. Our range includes cotton lace trims, venise lace, guipure lace, and more for dressmaking and bridal projects.

Q: Can I order samples of trims?

A: Yes! Samples are available for many of our trimmings, making it easy to match colours and textures before committing.

Q: Do you deliver trimmings UK-wide?
A: Yes, we offer fast and reliable UK delivery on all orders.