Which cord, thread or elastic should you choose?
The choice of cord determines whether the jewellery hangs nicely, withstands daily wear – and if it can even be assembled with your chosen beads. This guide covers the types we stock, what they are suitable for, and how to match thickness with the bead hole.
How to choose correctly
Multiple thicknesses of the same types: So you can hit the bead hole instead of forcing a thread that's too thick.
No Minimum Order: Buy a single unit and test it in your design before ordering in bulk.
See items in store: Nybrovej 83, 2820 Gentofte. If you are unsure about a material, feel free to visit and feel it.
Match the thickness with the bead hole
Basic rule: the thread diameter must be smaller than the bead hole – and for elastic and knotted bracelets, there must be room for the thread to pass through the hole twice. Genuine stones often have small, irregular holes, while glass and wooden beads typically have larger holes.
If in doubt, choose a thinner thread and increase the number of passes instead.
Weight and drape
Heavy stones will pull a soft thread out of shape. Choose wire for strands with stones and glass, and save soft silk for light beads where you want a soft drape. If the necklace is to sit close to the neck, a thin thread with knots between the beads helps.
The finishing determines durability
- Beading Wire: secure with a crimp bead, flatten with crimping pliers, and hide under a crimp cover.
- Elastic Cord: use a surgeon's knot, add a drop of glue, then pull the knot into a bead.
- Waxed Polyester Cord: several knots or an end cap with glue.
- Silk Cord: use a calotte over the knot, which then closes around the jump ring of the clasp.
Elastic cord doesn't last forever
Elastic is the easiest solution, but also the first to break. Inform your customers about this, and consider beading wire with a clasp if the bracelet contains valuable stones or silver components you wouldn't want to lose.
FAQ
Which thread should I use for beaded bracelets with stones?
Beading wire (tiger tail) with crimp beads and a clasp is the most durable choice because the steel core supports the weight. If the bracelet needs to slip over the hand, use elastic cord instead.
How thick should the elastic cord be?
Choose the thickest elastic cord that can pass through the bead hole twice. For Miyuki and small glass beads, use the thinnest; for larger stone and wooden beads, you can use a thicker gauge.
Should I glue the knot?
For elastic and knotted cords: yes, a small drop of jewellery glue makes the knot significantly more secure. For beading wire, crimp beads are used instead of knots.
Can I use the same thread for weaving and stringing?
No. Weaving requires a very thin, durable beading thread that can pass through the same bead multiple times, while stringing requires a stiffer beading wire that holds its shape.