Cording

Cording raises linear designs from the surface of the fabric. The cords are inserted inside channels stitched into doubled fabric. It brings elaborate interlaced compositions up from the surface with low relief modelling. There are three types of cording:

1. Hand-sewn Corded Quilting: Two layers of fabric cover the cords confining them within the stitched channels, a combination that embosses an interlacing design into the surface.
2. Machine-sewn Corded Quilting: Two layers of fabric covering cords confined within stitched channels, a combination that patterns the surface fabric with rounded ridges arranged in parallel rows.
3. Surface Cording: Parallel tubular casings, raised and stitched into the fabric like tucks, that round out over the foundation when filled with cord.

Cording was used in the 19th century for petticoats among other things. Corded petticoats were used as structured under garments until the hoop skirt was invented. The stiffening of the cotton, muslin or linen with horse hair and the cording helped to hold the petticoat away from the legs. Other petticoats were worn over this to create a stylish look in the 1840s.

Surface Cording from the Colette Patterns

Anne-Sofie Madsen, Danish Design School

KTZ

Jason Wu A/W 12