What is upholstery edge roll and why do I need it?

In the world of upholstery, attention to detail is paramount, and every element plays a crucial role in achieving a polished and refined final product. One such essential component in furniture crafting is the edging roll. This discreet yet indispensable upholstery supply serves a purpose in enhancing both the comfort and durability of furniture. 

Edging roll is a specialised upholstery material designed to cushion the wooden edges of furniture frames before the final upholstery is applied. Its primary function is to provide support, smooth out sharp edges, and create a seamless transition between the frame and the upholstery fabric. Edge roll can also be attached to edging wires using hog rings or stitches. 

Edging roll is typically a flexible, cylindrical foam or fiber-filled tube that is strategically placed along the very edges of the wooden frame to ensure a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Edging roll can be crafted from a variety of materials, each offering unique characteristics to suit different furniture styles and preferences. Common materials include:

Firm foam: Firm by pliable, foam edging rolls provide excellent cushioning and conformability, ensuring a comfortable and snug fit around the wooden frame. This comes in a variety of sizes and profiles. 

Fibre: Fiber-filled edging rolls offer a more traditional feel, combining softness with resilience. These rolls are often made from natural fibers such as coir fibre, wrapped in hessian, or a blend of synthetic materials.

Polyester Wadding: Edging rolls filled with wadding provide a balance of softness and support. They are known for their durability and ability to maintain their shape over time.

Cotton: Cotton edging rolls are favored for their natural, breathable qualities. They are often chosen for their eco-friendly and hypoallergenic characteristics, and for high end furniture.

Piping Cord: Edge rolls can also be substitued with soft filled piping cords, particularly the chunky ones. These soft piping cords are easy to squeeze into shape and stapled onto the frame.

How Edging Roll is used on a wooden frame

Before applying the edging roll, the wooden frame is carefully inspected and prepared. Any rough or sharp edges are smoothed out to create a clean surface.

The edging roll is measured and cut to fit the specific dimensions of the furniture frame. It is essential to ensure a precise fit to achieve optimal results. There is normally small gaps between the end of the edge roll and the frame to accomodate fabrics and stuffings.

The edging roll is attached to the wooden frame using tacks or staples. Sometimes glue is used. The goal is to secure it firmly in place while maintaining a consistent, even distribution along the edges. It is important the edge roll runs along the frame at the same position and angle.