Think of ribbons and trim as the perfect piece of jewelry for your furniture.
It’s that final, thoughtful detail that transforms a beautiful room into a breathtaking one. It’s the secret language of high-end, bespoke interior design. And here in Atlanta, it’s a language we speak fluently.
The Designer’s Secret to Bespoke Interiors
In the world of luxury interiors, the details aren't just details—they're the entire story. A perfectly placed trim elevates a simple piece into a work of art, giving it personality, texture, and a couture finish that feels completely custom.
Forget any notion that trim is an old-fashioned afterthought. In the hands of a skilled designer, it’s a seriously powerful tool. A simple grosgrain ribbon can add a sharp, graphic line to a modern sofa. A complex braid introduces subtle texture to a neutral armchair. It’s how you take a stunning Wesley Hall sofa and make it uniquely yours. Or give a classic Lee Industries chair an unexpected, personal edge.
This is the kind of craftsmanship discerning homeowners from Buckhead to Roswell value—and it's what we live for at Lewis and Sheron.
From Standard to Signature
The right application of ribbons and trim is what separates a well-decorated room from a truly designed space. It’s the difference between buying furniture off a floor and commissioning an heirloom.
Step inside our Buckhead showroom and you’ll understand why Lewis and Sheron has been Atlanta’s destination for exquisite furniture and fine fabrics for decades. From the handcrafted lines of Verellen and Wesley Hall to the curated textures of Lee Industries, every piece tells a story of quality, comfort, and design mastery.
Consider the impact:
- Defining Shape: Piping along the seams of a cushion creates a crisp, tailored silhouette, highlighting the piece's expert craftsmanship.
- Adding Color: A bold tape trim along the leading edge of a neutral drapery panel introduces a powerful pop of color without overwhelming the room.
- Creating Texture: A soft, brush fringe along the base of an ottoman adds a touch of playful elegance and irresistible tactile appeal.
This isn't about adding clutter. It's about intentional, curated additions that reflect a distinct point of view. It’s a language understood by clients from Roswell to Marietta and everywhere in between.
Why It Matters for Atlanta Homes
Atlanta's design scene is a dynamic blend of timeless tradition and fresh, modern energy. From the historic estates on West Paces Ferry to the contemporary new builds in Alpharetta and Milton, there's a shared appreciation for quality that lasts. Ribbons and trim are a key part of that narrative.
At its best, trim is a bespoke signature—the final flourish that confirms a piece was crafted with intention and artistry. It’s the detail that makes someone look closer and appreciate the mastery behind the design.
Our Atlanta fabric showroom is a treasure trove for this very purpose. It’s where interior designers in our Trade Program come to find exclusive textiles and the perfect finishing touches for their projects. They know that a piece from Verellen or Ambella Home deserves more than a standard finish. It deserves a detail that speaks to its quality.
This guide moves beyond simple definitions. We’re here to explore the why—why a delicate gimp is the perfect choice for a formal piece, or when to use a bold tape trim on a contemporary headboard. We'll show you how these small additions make the biggest impact.
This is the secret language of luxury furniture in Atlanta, and we're here to make you fluent.
A Visual Glossary of Essential Trims
Think of the world of trim as a language. Once you get the hang of the basic vocabulary, you can start crafting beautiful design sentences. This isn't about memorizing rules; it’s about understanding the personality of each element.
Here in our Buckhead showroom, we walk designers and homeowners through this language every day, helping them find the perfect accent for their custom upholstery projects.
Let's break down the key players—the foundational words in any designer's vocabulary. This simple visual guide shows how a single element, the right trim, can transform an everyday room into a masterpiece.
As you can see, trim is the essential bridge between a standard piece of furniture and a bespoke statement that truly defines a space.
Cord and Piping
Piping, or welt cord, is that crisp, clean line defining the shape of a cushion, arm, or back. Think of it as the perfect frame for your furniture.
It’s the subtle detail that gives a Verellen sofa its sharp, tailored silhouette or a Wesley Hall chair its classic, enduring form. It adds structure and a professional finish, highlighting the expert craftsmanship underneath. This small touch makes a huge difference. Using a contrasting color makes a bold statement, while a self-welt (using the same fabric) provides a subtle, sophisticated finish.
Gimp and Braid
Gimp and braid are the unsung heroes of custom upholstery. These flat, decorative trims are often used to cover seams and staples, but their role is far more glamorous. They are the elegant solution for a flawless finish, adding texture and color right where it's needed most.
Imagine a delicate, shimmering gimp tracing the wooden frame of a vintage chair, adding old-world charm. Or picture a modern, geometric braid along the base of an Ambella ottoman, introducing a cool graphic element. They are problem-solvers that double as jewelry. For a perfect example, take a look at our classic decorative gimp options to see how a small detail can complete a look.
Fringe and Tassels
If piping is the structure, fringe is all about movement. It’s the playful, dramatic, and utterly luxurious element that adds personality and flair. From the thick, opulent ropes of bullion fringe on a traditional sofa skirt to the light, airy brush fringe on a throw pillow, this trim is all about texture and motion.
Fringe doesn’t just sit there; it performs. It catches the light, sways with movement, and invites you to touch it. It’s a multi-sensory detail that elevates furniture from purely functional to wonderfully expressive.
Tassels serve a similar purpose. They're the exclamation points of design, often used on pillow corners, drapery tie-backs, or as a focal point on a furniture key. For a deep dive into decorative accessories that define bespoke interiors, check out this ultimate guide to curtain tiebacks.
Ribbon and Tape Trims
Ribbon and tape trims are where color and pattern truly come out to play. These are the workhorses for creating bold, graphic statements on everything from the leading edge of a drapery panel to the border of a pillow. They offer a fantastic way to introduce a second or third color into a scheme, tying the whole room together.
Whether it's a simple grosgrain ribbon along the base of a Lee Industries chair or an intricately embroidered tape on a headboard, these trims provide endless creative possibilities for a truly custom piece.
Choosing the Right Texture and Finish
The material of your ribbons and trim is every bit as important as its style. It’s the key ingredient that dictates the look, feel, and durability of the finished piece. Getting this right is what separates a nice project from the truly exquisite custom upholstery you see in Atlanta's finest homes, from East Cobb to Forsyth County.
Imagine the earthy, organic feel of a linen tape tracing the edges of a relaxed sofa. It’s a perfect fit for a sophisticated yet comfortable home, creating a look that’s understated, confident, and deeply textural.
Now contrast that with the quiet luster of a silk gimp outlining a formal dining chair. That subtle sheen catches the light, adding a whisper of elegance that elevates the entire room. This tactile difference is everything. It’s where quality speaks for itself.
Matching Materials to Your Lifestyle
Aesthetics are vital, but so is performance. The trim you fall in love with has to stand up to the way you actually live. For a high-traffic sofa in a busy family room, durability is non-negotiable.
This is where smart material selection shines:
- Natural Fibers (Cotton, Linen): Timeless, breathable, and sturdy. They take dye beautifully and are ideal for everything from casual slipcovers to sharply tailored upholstery.
- Luxe Fibers (Silk, Velvet): Nothing says opulence like silk or velvet. Their rich textures are perfect for formal spaces or accent pieces that won't see heavy daily use.
- Performance Synthetics (Polyester, Blends): Today’s high-quality options offer incredible resistance to fading, staining, and wear—a brilliant choice for pieces that need to work hard and still look absolutely stunning.
The goal is to create harmony. A plush velvet trim on a fine linen chair can create a beautiful textural contrast, while a smooth cotton tape on a performance fabric maintains a clean, modern line.
Texture and Sheen: The Final Polish
Beyond the base material, consider the finish. Does the trim have a matte, chalky surface or a high-gloss sheen? Is the weave smooth or slubby? These details add another layer of depth.
A matte grosgrain ribbon provides a sharp, graphic pop without distracting shine, making it a favorite for modern applications. A trim with a hint of metallic thread, on the other hand, introduces glamour. To see the big picture, it helps to understand how all the room's elements work together, including window treatments like drapes and curtains.
The right finish ensures your trim doesn’t just sit next to the primary fabric—it actively enhances it. It’s a dialogue between textures that makes the entire piece feel cohesive and intentionally designed.
In our Atlanta fabric showroom on Collier Rd, we see interior designers spend hours just feeling these textures. They know a photograph can't capture how a certain braid feels or how a silk cord reflects light. This hands-on process is key to creating luxury furniture that delights for years. Making the right choice also means considering the interplay between different fabrics; learn more about the role of drapery lining in our guide to custom drapes for a deeper dive.
The Art of Applying Trims Like a Pro
Knowing where and how to apply trim is what separates a pretty room from a polished, professional space. It's the master stroke that communicates intention and bespoke quality.
In our Atlanta fabric showroom, we see the best designers in the Southeast transform beautiful pieces into unforgettable ones with these very techniques. It’s about more than just rules; it’s about understanding balance, proportion, and impact. This is where the magic happens.
This level of detail is more valued than ever. The global market for molding and decorative trims hit USD 8.5 billion in 2023, projected to reach nearly USD 13.9 billion by 2032. This growth reflects a worldwide appetite for custom, aesthetically pleasing interiors, proving these finishing touches are in high demand. You can see more insights on this market at dataintelo.com.
The Classics Executed Flawlessly
Some applications are timeless for a reason—they just work. Mastering these foundational techniques gives you the confidence to tackle any custom upholstery project, whether for a client in Roswell or for your own home in East Cobb.
Start with the essentials:
- Piping on Cushions: This is non-negotiable for a crisp, tailored look. A contrasting welt cord on a Wesley Hall sofa sharpens its silhouette. A self-welt offers a more subtle, high-end finish. Getting this right is a fundamental step, and you can explore more in our guide on the art of applying piping on cushions.
- Tape Trim on Drapery: Applying a bold tape trim to the leading edge of a curtain panel is one of the fastest ways to introduce color and pattern, tying the room's color story together with authority.
- Gimp on Exposed Wood Frames: On chairs where fabric meets a wood frame, a delicate gimp provides a seamless and elegant transition. It’s a small detail that speaks volumes about craftsmanship.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Applications
Once you’re comfortable with the classics, it’s time to play. This is where a designer’s eye truly shines, finding unexpected ways to use ribbons and trim to create unforgettable moments.
Think outside the box:
The most memorable designs often come from applying a familiar element in an unexpected way. A simple ribbon can become a powerful graphic statement when you move it from the edge to the center of a piece.
Consider adding a bold, wide tape trim not just to the base of a Lee Industries chair, but also up the arms for a modern, architectural feel. Or, use a delicate ribbon to create a border on a plain headboard, instantly turning it into a bespoke focal point.
Another sophisticated technique is adding tassel fringe to the skirt of an ottoman. This introduces playful movement and opulent texture, transforming a functional piece from Ambella into a luxurious accent. These creative applications are hallmarks of the high-end furniture seen across Buckhead and Milton, proving that a little imagination elevates design from good to extraordinary.
Creating Your Custom Look in Our Atlanta Showroom
This is where the theory stops and the fun begins.
Stepping into our Buckhead showroom isn't like typical furniture shopping; it's more like commissioning a piece of art for your home. It’s a hands-on, creative process where your vision takes shape, guided by people who live and breathe high-end design.
Forget about endless scrolling online. Here on Collier Rd, you can actually feel the quality firsthand. Bring it all—your paint chips, your fabric samples, your Pinterest boards. Think of this as the ultimate design playground for homeowners and trade professionals all across North Georgia.
From Concept to Custom Masterpiece
The journey from idea to finished piece is simpler—and frankly, more inspiring—than you might think. This experience is what makes Lewis & Sheron a true destination for luxury furniture in Atlanta.
Imagine the possibilities, right on our showroom floor:
- Selecting the Foundation: It starts with a timeless frame from one of our premium partners. Perhaps you're drawn to the clean lines of a Verellen sofa or the plush comfort of a Wesley Hall sectional.
- Pairing the Perfect Fabric: Next, we head into our massive Atlanta fabric showroom. Explore thousands of designer fabrics, from durable performance textiles to exquisite Belgian linens, until we find the one that just feels right.
- Choosing the Finishing Touch: This is the final, crucial detail. We’ll lay your fabric next to our extensive collection of ribbons and trim. Will it be a sharp, contrasting welt cord? A subtle, elegant gimp? Or a bold tape trim that makes a powerful statement?
A Designer’s Eye at Your Service
Navigating thousands of options can feel overwhelming, but you're not going it alone. Our in-house design consultants are experts at helping clients from Roswell to Marietta find that perfect combination. They have a deep understanding of proportion, color theory, and how different textures play off one another.
The most successful custom pieces are born from collaboration. It’s that fusion of your personal style with our deep knowledge of materials and craftsmanship that creates something truly exceptional and one-of-a-kind.
Whether you're a seasoned interior designer sourcing for a project in Milton or a homeowner in Alpharetta creating your dream living room, our team is here for you. We can help you visualize how a simple grosgrain ribbon can transform a set of Lee Industries chairs, or how a delicate fringe can add just the right personality to an Ambella ottoman.
For our professional partners, the Lewis and Sheron Trade Program offers exclusive access and support. We are an extension of your team, providing the fine fabrics and custom upholstery resources you need to execute flawless designs for Atlanta’s most discerning clients.
The Lewis and Sheron Experience
Ultimately, this is about more than just furniture. It’s about creating a home that reflects who you are. It’s about investing in quality pieces that tell a story of craftsmanship—and adding that thoughtful ribbon or trim is a declaration that the details matter.
This is the Lewis and Sheron experience. It’s where Atlanta’s design community—from East Paces Ferry to Forsyth County—comes to create spaces that are anything but ordinary. Your vision, paired with our unmatched collections, results in pieces you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Ready to begin? Visit us and let’s start creating.
Your Questions About Ribbons and Trim Answered
Here in our Buckhead showroom, we live and breathe the art of the detail. It’s that final touch—the perfect ribbon or trim—that so often elevates a project from simply "good" to absolutely stunning. Over the years, we've gotten some fantastic questions from homeowners and seasoned designers alike.
So, we've gathered the most common queries we hear right here, packed with practical advice to help you make confident choices for your next project, whether it's in Milton, Marietta, or just down the road in Atlanta.
How Do I Choose the Right Scale of Trim for My Furniture?
The golden rule is balance. The scale of your trim should always complement the scale of the furniture it's on. Think of it like pairing a necklace with an outfit—a delicate chain for a simple dress, a statement piece for a bold gown.
A large, plush sofa from a maker like Wesley Hall, for example, can carry a wider, more substantial tape trim or a thick decorative cord. It won't get lost. On the other hand, a delicate antique side chair or a slim-profile piece from Lee Industries would look overwhelmed by anything too heavy; it calls for a fine gimp or a thin, elegant ribbon instead.
A great rule of thumb is to match the trim's scale to the furniture's scale. The trim should enhance the piece, not overpower it. When in doubt, let the furniture lead the conversation.
If you’re ever stuck, the solution is simple. Bring a photo of your furniture into our Atlanta showroom. Our experts can lay out different options with you, helping you see how the proportions will work in real life. This hands-on approach takes all the guesswork out of the equation.
Can I Mix Different Types of Trims in the Same Room?
Absolutely. In fact, we highly encourage it. Layering different ribbons and trims is a true hallmark of sophisticated interior design. It’s how you build a space that feels collected and thoughtfully curated over time.
The key to pulling it off is creating harmony. You can do this in a couple of clever ways:
- Unity Through Color: Weave a consistent color palette through your different trims. Imagine using a specific shade of navy blue as a tape trim on your curtains, a cord on your sofa pillows, and a tassel fringe on a nearby ottoman.
- Unity Through Material: Stick with a similar material or texture. You might play with various velvet trims throughout the space—a flat velvet ribbon here, a velvet cord there. This approach adds a rich, tactile depth that feels incredibly cohesive and high-end.
This strategy is a favorite among professionals in our trade furniture program, as it adds incredible personality and a custom touch to homes from Roswell to West Paces Ferry.
How Does Trim Choice Affect a Modern vs. Traditional Look?
The style of the trim and how you apply it are the two main dials you can turn to steer a piece toward either a modern or traditional aesthetic.
For a classic, traditional look, lean into more ornate and historically-inspired options. Think of rich bullion fringe on a sofa skirt, detailed braids that trace the lines of a wood frame, or classic tassels on drapery tie-backs. The placement is timeless, enhancing the furniture’s established silhouette.
For a fresh, modern aesthetic, you do the opposite. You're aiming for clean lines and graphic impact.
- Choose bold, geometric tape trims.
- Use simple, flat ribbons in high-contrast colors.
- Opt for a sharp, contrasting welt cord to define a silhouette.
The application can also be more adventurous. A modern approach might involve applying a wide tape trim in an unexpected place, like creating a border on a headboard or running it vertically up the center of a chair. It’s all about using ribbons and trim to create a graphic statement.
Are Certain Trims More Durable for High-Traffic Areas?
Yes, and this is a critical point for any furniture that's meant to be lived on, not just looked at. For sofas in the family room or a kitchen banquette that sees daily use, durability has to be a top priority.
Look for trims made from robust materials that can handle daily life. Cotton, linen blends, and high-quality synthetics like polyester are excellent choices. They're built to withstand wear, friction, and cleaning. For a family with kids or pets, a trim made from a performance fabric can be a game-changer.
On the flip side, some materials need to be handled with care. Pure silk, intricate beadwork, or fragile metallic threads are gorgeous, but they are best reserved for decorative, low-contact applications. Use them on accent pillows, on the leading edge of formal drapery, or in other spots where they can be admired without being put to the test. This is how you ensure your beautiful designer fabrics and their trims stay pristine for years to come.
At Lewis and Sheron Textiles, our passion is helping you find the perfect details to complete your vision. From fine fabrics to custom upholstery, we are Atlanta’s go-to resource for creating timeless, beautiful interiors. Explore our collections and start your next project with us today at https://lsfabrics.com.