Article:
All the trimmings
By Shelley Anderson
June 2007
Decorative trim has been used in home décor for literally centuries, having been used both as purely decorative and as a functional element in design. This time tested strategy is back as a way to add “wow” to traditional and modern interiors.
A simple, solid color pillow comes alive when a multicolored lip cord or brush fringe is used in the seam. A simple pair of drapery panels become a custom detail in your home with the addition of bullion or tassel fringe to the leading edge.
Decorative trims aren’t just made from yarns and threads any more. Incredible glass and semiprecious beads are strung on a base tape called a “lip.” These can be inserted in the seams of pillows, table runners, placemats—your imagination is the limit to the uses.
Traditional and transitional interiors are synonymous with decorative trim. These decorating styles have used fringes and tiebacks continuously for decades. To update this a bit, try using some of the beaded trims on pillows and draperies.
Don’t forget your shower curtain. Add a whimsical tieback to your simple decorative panel. Replace the fabric ties on chair pads with tassel chair ties. Key tassels look beautiful hanging from the handles of an armoire, from a door key, or try one hanging on the on/off switch of your table lamp.
Contemporary-styled interiors benefit from the use of contrast trimming to accentuate the angular, clean lines of furniture. Picture your chocolate-brown sofa trimmed on all seams with aqua blue lip cord made from leather. Mid-century modern décor will delight in retro-inspired pom-pom fringe.
Here are a few definitions to help get you on your way to adding all the trimmings to your home:
- Bullion fringe: A thick, looped fringe usually found on the bottom of sofas, placed over the skirt. This trim looks best when hanging straight down, but don’t be afraid to use it on the sides of pillows or curtains for a very opulent look.
- Gimp: A trim attached with thread or hot glue. This trim you will see on upholstered furniture where the tacks need to be hidden.
- Lip cord: A twisted trim that includes a lip, the part that is sewn into a seam. This trim works well in pillow seams, at the top and bottom of cornice window treatments and in the seam of a duvet cover.
- Tiebacks: Cords with tassels attached. Tiebacks, as their name suggests, are used to tie back drapery panels, but another use is on the back of an upholstered dining or hostess chair.
- Brush fringe: A thick, luxurious trim that can be used in the same places as lip cord, including seat cushions on chairs and sofas.
- Tassel fringe: A trim consisting of hanging tassels. This trim can be one to six inches long. It is a great trim to use to add movement to draperies and pillows.
Shelley Anderson has been creating interiors in the greater Seattle area since 1990.You may contact her at (206) 719-6814 or email her at
shelley.anderson@shelleyandersoninteriors.com.