Have you ever finished a beautiful beaded bracelet, only to have the elastic snap after just a few wears? It’s frustrating! Choosing the right stretch cord is the secret weapon for jewelry makers. The wrong cord leads to weak knots and bracelets that fall apart too soon. Many people get confused by terms like “thickness” and “stretchability.”
Don’t let flimsy string ruin your creative projects! This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explore the best types of stretch cord available, helping you understand what makes a cord strong, durable, and comfortable for your wrist.
By the end of this post, you will know exactly which cord to buy for any bracelet project. Get ready to create stunning, long-lasting jewelry. Let’s dive into the essential details of selecting the perfect stretch cord for your next masterpiece!
Top Stretch Cord For Bracelets Recommendations
No. 1
Stretch Magic Elastic Beading Cord – Clear Color, 0.5mm in Diameter, 10-Meter (32 ft) - Easy to Knot, Strong & Stretchy String for Making Beaded Jewelry
- HIGHEST QUALITY: Stretch Magic is a strong, durable, non-fraying material, with great elasticity and resiliency. Consistent diameter throughout the entire spool. The perfect stretch cord for making jewelry that's easy to wear and remove!
- SPOOL OF CREATIVITY: Made of polyurethane, this clear elastic cord has a 0.5mm diameter and comes as a 10-meter (32.8 feet) spool. This cord can be used for jewelry making, arts projects and other DIY craft applications.
- EASY TO USE: This stretchy cord is perfect bracelet, necklace, beading and other jewelry projects. String with pearls, gemstones, glass beads, crystal, plastic, charms, and other embellishments.
- A SMOOTH FINISH: Free of latex, the elastic like string is easy to knot, creating an easy finish. For best results you may want to knot it a few times and seal it with a dab of super glue. The strength of Stretch Magic allows for a crimp finish if that's what you prefer.
- STRETCH MAGIC BY PEPPERELL: Established in 1917, they began as a factory to produce shoelaces, which led to candle wicking and braided products. In the 1970’s they moved into the craft market by manufacturing and marketing macramé cord, eventually acquiring plastic craft lace. With these strong product lines, they became the leader in design and manufacturer of general and specialized arts and crafts supplies.
No. 2
JULIMAIDONG 0.8mm Elastic Bracelet String Cord, Crystal Stretch Bead Cord for Bracelets Jewelry Making, Clear Stretchy Elastic String for Beading, Transparent Thread (0.8MM/200ft)
- ELASTIC CABLE QUANTITY MATCHING SALE:JULIMAIDONG Bracelet Elastic Cord comes with a roll of elastic cord in 60M/200ft length, perfect for bracelet making, jewelry making, beading, necklace making and other craft projects. And this roll of elastic cord is lightweight and portable, you can take it to school or party and bead with your friends.
- HIGH QUALITY ROUND ELASTIC CABLE: The elastic cord is about 0.8mm in diameter, 60 meters/200 feet length per roll. Easy to tie, strong yet fine, ensures firm beads and hides knots easily.
- ELASTIC WIRE FOR BRAZEL MAKING: This bracelet wire is made of elastic polyester spandex, crystal clear, both strong and beautiful. The bead cord is made of high quality polyester material, wear-resistant and suitable for long time use. Highly elastic and stretchable, not easy to break, no need to worry about jewelry breaking and losing your beloved beads. The elastic cord is suitable for beading projects.
- BEAD STRINGING WIRE FOR JEWELRY MAKING: The elastic wire is perfect for bracelets, necklaces, beads and other jewelry craft projects. Especially suitable for jewelry making with seed beads, gemstone beads, glass beads and other beads. Designed with transparent crystal color, it is beautiful and invisible and will not affect the color and pattern of the beads. Easy to tie knots, making jewelry making simpler.
- REASONS WORTH BUYING: This roll of elastic cord is great value for money, suitable for all kinds of crafts, not only durable but also beautiful. EASY TO USE: The crystal cord is easy to pass through the beads, no other tools are needed. Easy to tie knots, you can hide the knots in the holes of the beads to make the knots invisible and make the jewelry more exquisite.
No. 3
FIVEIZERO 2 Rolls Elastic Bracelet String Total 330 Feet,1.0mm,1.2mm,1.5mm Elastic Cord for Beading Stretchy String with Beading Needle for Bracelets, Sewing, Necklace, Jewelry Making and Crafts
- Elastic Bracelet String-- Bracelet making just got a whole lot more fun with our FIVEIZERO black and white elastic bracelet string! This 1mm White elastic cord for bracelets is like the superhero of crafting materials, with its remarkable stretchiness that can handle any wrist size and keep your creations snug and comfortable.
- Endless Creativity Unleashed--Unleash your imagination and dive into the world of jewelry making and crafts with this versatile elastic cord. From elegant bracelets to stylish necklaces, this stretchy string is your ticket to endless creative possibilities. Let your creativity run wild and design unique pieces that reflect your personality.
- Let's Get Crafty--Crafting should never be a hassle, and with our elastic cord for beading, it's a breeze! No need for complicated tools or special skills. Simply thread your favorite beads, charms, and pendants onto this elastic string for bracelets, sewing, necklace, jewelry making and crafts, tie it off, and voila! You've got a fabulous piece of jewelry that will turn heads and spark conversations.
- Decorate your accessories--Tired of plain and dull accessories? Say hello to the FIVEIZERO black and white elastic bracelet string! Its vibrant black color adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your creations. Whether you're attending a party, weddings,a music festival, and other occasions, or just adding some flair to your everyday style, this elastic cord is your go-to fashion companion.
- Wide Applications--Perfect elastic string for bracelets making, friendship bracelet, Kandi bracelet, necklace, anklets, earrings and DIY craft projects such as bead weaving, knotting, jewelry making, etc. Suitable clear string for hanging decorations, nice elastic thread for sewing buttons and other handmade jobs and ideal gift for your family, friends and so on.
No. 4
Paxcoo 1mm Elastic Bracelet String Cord Stretch Bead Cord for Jewelry Making and Bracelet Making White
- VALUE PACK OF ELASTIC CORD: Paxcoo bracelet string comes with a roll of 100 m/ 328 ft elastic cord, ideal for bracelet making, jewelry making, beading, necklace making and other art craft projects
- FLAT ELASTIC STRING: The elastic string is approx. 1 mm in width and 0.7 mm in thickness. 100 m / 328 ft per roll. It is easy to tie knots and the knot is strong and small to make your beads secure and you can hide the knot easily
- ELASTIC FOR BRACELET MAKING: This bracelet string is made of elastic polyester spandex and it is crystal looking, which is sturdy for use and beautiful looking. The stretchy thread is great for beading projects
- BEAD STRING FOR JEWELRY MAKING: The elastic cord is perfect for bracelet, necklace, bead weaving and other jewelry craft projects. Especially fit for using with seed beads, gemstone beads, glass beads and other beads for jewelry making
No. 5
Stretchy String for Bracelets, 3 Rolls 1 mm 495 Feet Sturdy Elastic String Cord for Jewelry Making, Necklaces, Beading and Crafts (1.0mm (Black&Wihte&Rainbow))
- 【Elastic String】 black &white &Rainbow three classic colors,perfect for beading, bracelets, necklaces, jewelry making and sewing beading, DIY crafting, drawstring bags, bracelets, pony bead jewelry.
- 【Strong and Stretchy】 stretchy string is very stretchy, In the range of allowable tensile elastic deformation, can easily restore the original length without deformation.
- 【Size and Length】elastic string cord is about 1mm thick, 165 feet per roll, Three rolls total 495 feet. Easy to stretch and tie when you use it,sturdy enough to secure your bracelets and other DIY crafts.
- 【Premium Material】【Premium Material】stretchy string made from nylon polyester fabric material and braided rubber; Durable, sturdy, and long-lasting elasticity,easy to cut and tie into secure knots.
- 【Multi-Purpose】 -This elastic rope is suitable for jewelry making, Elastic string for bracelets , beading, DIY crafting, drawstring bags, bracelets, pony bead jewelry,other projects that require elasticity.
No. 6
6 Rolls FIVEIZERO Elastic Bracelet String Cord, 0.4mm, 0.5mm, 0.6mm, 0.7mm, 0.8mm, 1mm Crystal Clear Stretchy Elastic Bead String for Bracelets, Jewelry Making and Clay Pony Seed Stone Beads Beading
- 【Clear Stretchy String for Bracelets】Includes 1 x 0.4/0.5/0.6/0.7/0.8/1mm round transparent crystal elastic string cord. Ideal bead string for clay beads, pony beads bracelet making, friendship bracelet beads, seed beads, crystal beads, letter alphabet beads, number beads, glass beads, kandi beads, clear beads and more.
- 【Premium Elastic Bracelet String】Made of heavy-duty elastic plastic rubber material with superior abrasion and aging resistance to protect against fraying and yellowing from daily use (e.g. sunlight exposure, wet, etc.). No stringy or splinter problems, only a sturdy, fresh and bright appearance for our beading thread even after years of use.
- 【Uniform Tension Distribution】Our round bracelet elastic strings offer consistent tension distribution when stretched compared to flat elastic string, helping maintain the shape and structure of your beaded creations without over-sagging. Decent elasticity allows for easy wearing and removal of bracelets, anklets, etc, resuming its original length despite numerous stretches or knots with no thinning or losing shape.
- 【Easy to Tie Knots & Hide】Our clear elastic beading string boasts crystal clarity, smoothly threads through beads, ties sturdy knots and discreetly hides in beads - no needles or glues needed. Whether you're crafting with colorful glass/clay beads for bracelets making or delicate crystal beads for jewelry making, our transparent necklace bracelets making string blends in seamlessly for enhanced overall aesthetics of your beaded jewelry.
- 【Wide Applications】Perfect clear elastic string for bracelets making, friendship bracelet, Kandi bracelet, necklace, anklets, earrings and DIY craft projects such as bead weaving, knotting, jewelry making, etc. Suitable clear string for hanging decorations, nice elastic thread for sewing buttons and other handmade jobs and ideal gift for your family, friends and so on.
No. 7
Stretchy String for Bracelets, 4 Rolls 1 mm Sturdy Elastic String Elastic Cord for Jewelry Making, Necklaces, Beading (2 Black+ 2 White)
- WIDELY APPLICATIONS : Elastic string for bracelets , beading, DIY crafting, drawstring bags, bracelets, pony bead jewelry, hair ties and party hat straps.
- EXCELLENT ELASTICITY : Elastic string is very stretchy, In the range of allowable tensile elastic deformation, can easily restore the original length without deformation.
- EASY TO WORK WITH : The Elastic cord is easy to cut and tie, flexible and relatively easy to knot while you are working with it. Don't need to make many knots to secure it.
- PREMIUM MATERIAL : Elastic Thread made from nylon polyester fabric material and braided rubber; Durable, sturdy, and long-lasting elasticity; Soft; flexible.
- ADEQUATE LENGTH : You will receive 2 rolls black elastic cords and 2 rolls white elastic cords, 1 mm in thickness 55 yard/roll, enough length for jewelry making, wire bead making, bracelet making, necklace making. If these elastic Cord do not meet your expectation please contact us and we are willing to listen to your voice.
No. 8
Stretch Magic Elastic Beading Cord – Clear Color, 0.7mm in Diameter, 25-Meter (82 ft) - Easy to Knot, Strong & Stretchy String for Making Beaded Jewelry
- HIGHEST QUALITY: Stretch Magic is a strong, durable, non-fraying material, with great elasticity and resiliency. Consistent diameter throughout the entire spool. The perfect stretch cord for making jewelry that's easy to wear and remove!
- SPOOL OF CREATIVITY: Made of polyurethane, this clear elastic cord has a 0.7mm diameter and comes as a 25-meter (82 feet) spool. This cord can be used for jewelry making, arts projects and other DIY craft applications.
- EASY TO USE: This stretchy cord is perfect bracelet, necklace, beading and other jewelry projects. String with pearls, gemstones, glass beads, crystal, plastic, charms, and other embellishments.
- A SMOOTH FINISH: Free of latex, the elastic like string is easy to knot, creating an easy finish. For best results you may want to knot it a few times and seal it with a dab of super glue. The strength of Stretch Magic allows for a crimp finish if that's what you prefer.
- STRETCH MAGIC BY PEPPERELL: Established in 1917, they began as a factory to produce shoelaces, which led to candle wicking and braided products. In the 1970’s they moved into the craft market by manufacturing and marketing macramé cord, eventually acquiring plastic craft lace. With these strong product lines, they became the leader in design and manufacturer of general and specialized arts and crafts supplies.
Choosing the Best Stretch Cord for Your Bracelet Projects
Making your own jewelry is fun! Stretch cord is a must-have for easy, no-clasp bracelets. This guide helps you pick the best cord so your creations last a long time. We look at what matters most when you buy.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, focus on these important things. They make a big difference in how your bracelet feels and lasts.
1. Stretch and Memory
- Stretch: Good cord stretches far but snaps back easily. Test it gently. If it stretches too much and stays loose, it is weak.
- Memory: This means the cord remembers its original shape. High-quality cord keeps its round shape and doesn’t look flat after wearing.
2. Thickness (Diameter)
Cord comes in different sizes, usually measured in millimeters (mm).
- 0.5mm to 0.7mm: Best for small, light beads, like seed beads.
- 0.8mm to 1.0mm: The most common size. Works well for medium to heavy gemstone beads.
- Over 1.0mm: Use this for very large or heavy beads. It is very strong but harder to thread.
3. Durability and Longevity
You want a cord that resists breaking. Look at how it handles daily wear. A strong cord resists snapping when tugged or stretched repeatedly.
Important Materials Matter
The material determines the cord’s strength, feel, and how long it lasts against water and sweat.
Elastic Types
- Clear Elastic Cord (Polyurethane or Elastic Thread): This is the most popular choice. Polyurethane (PU) is very strong and resists breaking better than cheaper plastic elastic. Look for “high-stretch” PU.
- Silicone Cord: Sometimes used, but it can sometimes feel stickier or stretch out permanently more easily than good PU cord.
Core Construction
Some cords have many tiny strands woven together inside. More strands usually mean a stronger, smoother cord. A single, thick strand might break more easily if it has a weak spot.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality is not just about the material; it is about how it is made and how you treat it.
Quality Boosters
- Coating: Some high-quality cords have a special clear coating. This coating protects the inner elastic from friction and moisture, making it last longer and look shinier.
- Testing: Brands that test their cords for breaking strength usually offer better products.
Quality Reducers
- Cheap Plastic: Very inexpensive, shiny, plastic-looking cord often breaks quickly. It might feel stiff at first.
- Water Damage: Exposure to chlorine (like in pools) or strong soaps slowly eats away at the elastic fibers, reducing quality fast.
User Experience and Use Cases
How easy is the cord to work with? This affects your crafting time.
Threading and Knotting
Thicker cords (0.8mm and up) are easier to thread onto a needle or directly onto beads with large holes. When you tie the knot, good stretch cord holds the knot tightly. You should be able to cinch the knot down securely without the cord slipping back.
Best Uses
- Everyday Wear Bracelets: Use medium to thick PU cord for jewelry that people wear often.
- Children’s Jewelry: Use a slightly thicker, very strong cord, as kids tend to pull on things more often.
- Necklaces (Short Pendants): While less common, a very thick, strong cord can hold light pendants if you do not want a metal chain.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Stretch Cord
Q: How do I tie the strongest knot for stretch cord?
A: Use a square knot, followed by a surgeon’s knot, or simply tie three or four tight overhand knots in a row. Always glue the final knot with a tiny drop of super glue or jeweler’s adhesive for extra security.
Q: How long should my piece of cord be before I string the beads?
A: Measure your wrist size, then cut the cord about 10 to 12 inches longer than that. This extra length gives you plenty of room to work the beads on and tie those secure knots.
Q: Can I use hot glue on stretch cord?
A: Yes, a tiny dot of super glue or specialized jewelry glue works best. Hot glue might melt the elastic or not bond well, leading to a weak spot.
Q: What causes stretch cord to break over time?
A: Mostly friction from the beads rubbing together, exposure to sweat and lotions, and repeated stretching when putting the bracelet on and taking it off.
Q: Is clear cord stronger than colored cord?
A: Usually, yes, clear polyurethane (PU) cord is the standard for strength. Color is just dye added; it doesn’t usually change the strength unless the coloring process damages the fibers.
Q: What is the best way to store unused stretch cord?
A: Keep it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Heat and UV light break down elastic materials quickly.
Q: Can I use stretch cord for heavy stone beads?
A: Yes, but you must use the thickest strong cord available, like 1.0mm or 1.2mm PU. Always check the weight capacity.
Q: How do I stop the cord from fraying when I cut it?
A: You can carefully wrap a tiny piece of tape around the end you are about to cut, or gently melt the very tip of the cut end with a lighter flame (be very careful not to burn yourself or the whole spool).
Q: What size hole do beads need for 0.8mm cord?
A: Beads should have a hole diameter of at least 1.0mm to allow the 0.8mm cord to pass through easily without too much scraping.
Q: How long should a properly strung bracelet last?
A: With good quality PU cord and careful knotting, a well-made bracelet should last several years of regular wear before needing restringing.