Best Stretchy Cord for Bracelets In 2023 (Updated)

Do you have an interest in making beaded jewelry pieces?

If your answer is yes, you must assemble some crucial materials before any project begins.

You need beads, a collapsible-eye needle and of course, elastic threads. Stretch cords for beadwork are designed for elastic ornaments. They are perfect for jewelry makers of all levels and play a crucial role in the making of beaded ornaments.

These stretchy ornaments are timeless, aesthetically appealing, and stylish. For this reason, they have swiftly found their way into the hearts of millions of people across the world, including red carpet models and renowned celebrities.

Elastic beading strings make an excellent addition to all sorts of beading projects. Irrespective of whether you are a professional jeweler or a hobbyist, the right cord will make it easier for you to make quality and long-lasting pieces.

With a whole world of elastic cords for beadwork, how do you choose the best product for your projects?

In this guide, we analyze the 10 best stretchy cord for bracelets to make it easier for you to choose a product that suits your needs.

Things to Consider Before Buying Stretchy Cords for Bracelets

There are three crucial aspects you must consider when choosing elastic cords for your beadwork projects. The right thread will not break prematurely and will also enhance the overall flair of your jewelry pieces.

Cord Size

The durability of a cord is determined mainly by its size. This is perhaps the most vital aspect you should consider when choosing what to buy. You need a cord that can hold up to your beads without snapping.

Bead Hole Size

As a rule of thumb, you must select your beads before selecting your cord. The ideal elastic string needs to pass through the beads without much hassle. In case you intend to use a needle, make sure your thread will fit through your beads when doubled over.

Bead Size

The majorities of beads are size 8 or 11. They allow you to comfortably use a 0.5mm elastic string with the help of a collapsible-eye needle. When working on heavier and bigger beads such as those made of gemstone, the sturdiness of the elastic thread is an aspect you cannot afford to underestimate.

Cord Color

Not all stretchy cords are white or clear in color. In the majorities of beading projects, it is enough to use a neutral color thread. However, considering the color of the thread is crucial if you want it to be visible or a part of the design of an accessory.

Reviews of The Best Stretchy Cord for Bracelets

With so many options of elastic threads for beadwork projects, how do you choose the right product for your needs? In this post, we discuss the most reliable brands in today's markets.

1. Paxcoo 1mm Stretch Bead Cord 

First on our best elastic for bracelets review is the Paxcoo 1mm. It is made from top-quality polyester material, making it ideal for bead weaving and various other jewelry craft projects.

The diameter of the hole on your beads will play a key role in dictating the layer of strings you need. You can use a bead wire or a collapsible-eye needle to fold the elastic string and thread your bracelets, necklaces or finger rings.

Because the thread is relatively thin, tying the knot and hiding it is stress-free. You can tie a double knot if you are using two strands and then reinforce it with superglue or nail polish. Slide the knot into one of the bead holes to give your bracelet a smooth, seamless finish.

Even though the thread looks thin, you can bet on its ability to hold stable connections when making your jewelry pieces. Its elasticity allows it to stretch as you put your bracelet through the hand and then immediately snap back into its original shape.

Also, since the product is designed uniquely for stretch jewelry, this elastic thread is durable and easy to knot. It is an excellent addition to adult and kids jewelry-making projects. In this case, using a clasp is not mandatory, and you can just thread your beads, tie the end and voila! You are done!

When working with gemstones, seed beads, and glass beads, this is one of the best threads you can use.

Highlighted Features:

  • Made from elastic polyester-spandex.
  • 0.7 Thickness x 1.0mm Width.
  • Flat-shaped cord.
  • 100 m/328 ft length.
  • Clear white color.

2. Bingcute 1.0MM Beading Elastic Cord

This is a flexible and stretchy thread that is excellent for all manner of craft projects, including doll construction.

If you are looking for a best stretchy cord for bracelets that you can use to make long-standing jewelry pieces, this is it. The thread neither cracks nor hardens over time, making it an excellent match for creating high-end handcrafted bracelets and necklaces.

The ends don't fray, and this makes it remarkably easy to thread your beads. As long as the cord can support the size of your beads and smoothly go through their hole-size, simple projects such as making the wrist and ankle bracelets will only take a matter of minutes.

To ensure that the cord does not stretch out and mess with the shape of your jewelry pieces, stretch it before threading the beads. This is a simple tip that will save you from needless frustration.

Irrespective of your application, getting the end knots secured firmly is easy. Use a double or square knot and consider using cement glue to keep the ties held in place. Both knot types are recommended although the double tie is the ideal one for Kandi cuffs.

Using one cord roll, you can make between 50-60 standard size bracelets. The quality of the elastic is quite sturdy and excellent for making kids bracelets.

Children love to play with their pieces of jewelry and stretch them. In this case, you don’t have to worry about them snapping. The stretchy cord is just as reliable as a ponytail holder.

Highlighted Features:

  • Excellent for all craft projects.
  • 100-yd roll.
  • Thickness is 1mm.
  • Easy to use hence ideal for kids craft.

3. Outus 1 mm Elastic Beading Cord 

This thread is ideal for making elastic necklaces and bracelets. It is made from polypropylene fabric cord, which makes it sturdy and reliable. You can use it for both small and medium beading projects.

What makes this the best string for bracelets is the fact that it can also be useful in other applications. You can use it to create pony beads, decorative items, toys, and various other craft projects.

The entire thread measures 100 meters in length and 1mm in diameter. It comes with a well-made plastic roll that you can use conveniently to keep your beading threads organized.

If you are in search of an elastic beading cord that holds up well to sweat and repeated use, then this is the right product to consider. The rainbow-colored cord is a bonus that is not just beautiful, but it will also encourage your kids to engage more in craft projects.

The black cord is an excellent addition to any craft project. It stretches out perfectly (not too much or too little), and this makes it easy to use.

Moreover, this stretchy cord will come in handy when scrapbooking. You can use it to hang things and then tie a knot to secure them in place. The elasticity of the string allows some level of movement, and this makes the journals a bit nicer.

It is not foreign for rubber cords to lose their shape over time. However, there are proven ways to ensure that your crafts do not prematurely lose their shape. Stretch out the string before getting started on any application.

Highlighted Features:

  • Excellent for making elastic jewelry pieces.
  • Elastic cord has a fabric cover.
  • The material is rubber.
  • Measures 100meters and 1mm diameter.
  • Easy to use and ideal for DIY crafts.

4. Paxcoo 0.8mm Elastic String

This stretchy cord is made from elastic-plastic rubber that makes it both flexible and reliable. Even though it is 0.8mm and ultra-lightweight, its strength is incredible. If you try breaking it with your bare fingers, you risk wounding your skin.

The thread is slip-free and using glue to secure the knots is not mandatory. However, you should be extra keen when making the end-ties. Consider using the surgeon's knots or constrictor knots if you prefer not to use an adhesive.

To address concerns allied with the thread stretching out after use, stretch it at least ten times before threading the beads. Pulling it an additional ten times before tying the knot will mitigate any chance of the cord going slack prematurely. This practice helps to keep the beads tight and properly structured.

A perk that cannot be emphasized enough is that this thread does not break easily. It is thick enough to awe you during a breaking point test. You should, however, use jewelry glue instead of super glue. The latter is known to make the thread course and easily breakable.

Whether you are using glass beads, gemstones, or seed beads among other types of beads, this is an ideal stretchy cord to purchase. It is an excellent match for a wide range of beadwork applications. In fact, it is a brilliant addition to any craft project.

Highlighted Features:

  • Round in shape.
  • Made from elastic-plastic rubber.
  • Measures 0.8mm in diameter and 120 m in length.
  • Crystal color.

5. Outkitkit 1mm Elastic String 

For jewelers in search of a robust stretchy cord, the Outkitkit is a product we highly recommend. It is made of synthetic fiber, elastic line spandex, and Crystal TPU line, making it a perfect fit for craft projects such as beading.

This versatile and easy to use thread has superb stretching strength and can hold up well even when using bigger and heavier beads. It has a width of 1mm, which is the standard thread size used during beaded jewelry production.

You can use it for small, medium, and DIY beadwork projects, as long as you have a good idea about the knotting techniques to use.

To make it easier to tie the end knot, consider using a double strand. If this is not possible, tie a double knot at the end of the thread.

Do not be fooled by the appearance of this ultra-thin string. Its strength, as well as its elasticity, often comes a surprise to many. Another perk that is also worth mentioning is that this thread does not tangle. This is a property that makes it remarkably easy to use even for kids craft projects.

The 75mm threading needles come as a bonus. Whether you are making bracelets and necklaces from scratch or you want to repair your old, worn-out jewelry pieces, you will find this bead cord to be quite handy.

Highlighted Features:

  • Elastic string (2 Roll).
  • 1mm width x 100m length per roll.
  • 2 root threading needles (75mm width).
  • Made of synthetic fiber, elastic line spandex, and Crystal TPU line.

6. PandaHall Elite 10 Rolls 0.8mm

Another product that is on our review for all the right reasons is the PandaHall Elite. You are guaranteed excellent value for your money because you get 10 rolls of quality 10m stretchy strings.

These polyester threads come in a range of colors, and this makes them a superb choice for a variety of craft projects. The strings are durable and long-lasting and can be used for decorative applications, DIY jewelry making, and for assembling beaded accessories.

Irrespective of the project you have at hand, nothing is as important as creating a sturdy foundation for your designs. This crystal transparent cord is soft and acts like a rubber band. It is beyond debate that this is a property that makes it user-friendly, even for first-timers in bead working projects.

When using the thread, you will notice that tying the knot is quite easy. You can use your hands to create strong and long-standing knots at the end of your craft pieces, or you can choose to use a bead wire. Another option you may find enticing is to use two cords to reinforce the strength of your bracelets and make it easier to tie knots.

The beading thread is 0.8mm/0.03inch thick approximately. This, coupled with the fact that it is made of polyester spandex, makes it ideal for kids craft projects. You can use it with all sorts of beads, including gemstone beads, seed beads, and glass beads.

Highlighted Features:

  • 10 crystal string rolls.
  • Measurements: 10m length, 0.8mm thickness.
  • Material is polyester spandex.
  • Comes in multiple colors.

7. Pepperell Stretch Magic Jewelry Cord

If you are a fan of crafts and beading, using stretch magic cords will leave you enjoying a long list of benefits. Threads from Pepperell are well known for their resilience and user-friendliness.

This elastic string for bracelets is transparent and therefore works well with all sorts of beads, irrespective of their color or design. It has a diameter of 0.7mm, which is the standard thread thickness for a necklace, ring, and bracelet projects.

Because the string is ultra-thin, you can double it over if you are using bigger or heavier beads. In this case, tying a tight knot at the end will assist in ensuring that the design of your jewelry pieces remains intact even after years of use.

When using your cord, do not forget the fact that it can shred. This means you should not pull it too hard, and it is also better to use beads that have a smooth finish. On the bright side, the string ties easily and the knot stays in place, even if an adhesive is not used.

For the best outcome, use the overhand knot. This is the most common and most straightforward knot technique for bracelets. In case you prefer using an adhesive, you can use either jeweler's glue or regular super glue. Both options work perfectly.

Moreover, this stretchy beading string is round in shape and can be used to thread together nearly all types of beads. It is 100 meters in length, meaning you can make at least 50 adult bracelets using a single roll.

Highlighted Features:

  • Stretch magic cord.
  • 0.7mm diameter and 100 meters in length.
  • Clear/Transparent color.
  • Stretchy, strong and flexible.

8. LUTER 0.8mm Clear Bead Cord 

For budding jewelers, nothing can discourage you from making beadwork a hobby than to use a substandard stretchy cord. To give your designs a solid foundation and have confidence showing your creativity, you need a thread that is as sturdy and reliable as the Luter 0.8mm.

This beading string does not break, crumble or tangle. In fact, it still retains its shape after extended periods of use. This offers you the perfect addition to your beading projects that can bring both function and outstanding aesthetics to your jewelry pieces.

Even though the cord is merely 0.8mm thick, its strength is unmatched. It can swiftly get through tiny beads and also hold well when threading heavier ones. Better still, tying the knot is a breeze, and hiding it is equally stress-free.

The versatility of this bead cord makes it excellent for creating new jewelry pieces from scratch. You could also use it when repairing older bracelets, accessories, or craft items.

If you are a seasoned crafter, then the odds are that you are always in search of ways to complete your projects better and faster. This is a must-have bead string for all jewelers because it is quite easy to use and can be used for a wide range of applications.

Another perk that cannot go without mentioning is that the string is clear and it, therefore, makes the beads look as though they are floating!

Highlighted Features:

  • User-friendly elastic cord.
  • Sturdy, stretchy and long-lasting.
  • Stylish design (neither too thick nor too thin).
  • 100m length, 0.8mm thickness.

9. Stretch Magic 1mm Stretchy Cord

If the idea of using a beading needle does not sit well with you, it will make perfect sense for you to consider using this stretchy cord.

It does not crumble or tangle, and this is a property that makes it a top choice for most crafters, irrespective of the type of beads they are using. This stretchy string is excellent for making bracelets and other kinds of jewelry.

Because the string does not crumble, passing it through the hole of even small beads is a walk in the park. You can use it to create accessories using thinner beads and even those with thicker diameters.

Even though it measures 1mm in width, breaking it is nearly impossible. As long as you use a double knot and apply adhesive or clear nail polish at the end, you will have created a craft that can last for years on end.

This elastic string for beading is probably the best product in today's market. It is crafted using the most recent technologies in making bead cords and is highly preferred by seasoned jewelers and newbies alike for its ability to be knotted with ease.

Another added benefit of using this tread is that it does an excellent job when making illusion jewelry. Such pieces are trending this season and crafters can make priceless gifts for their loved ones or even create ornaments for their e-commerce stores.

Highlighted Features:

  • Stretch magic elastic beading cord.
  • 1mm thick and 5 meters long.
  • Made from spandex.
  • Easy to use and knot.
  • Not mandatory to use a beading needle.

10. PandaHall Clear Crystal Stretch cord

Last but not the least on our best elastic strings for beading is the PandaHall stretch cord. This crystal clear string is 0.88mm thick and 100 meters in length. It is the perfect addition for crafts that involve using lava beads, pony beads, glass beads, Kandi beads, and seed beads.

Crystal transparent strings have more than a few major bragging points. Among the most notable one is that they are excellent for making illusion bracelets; the kind that seems as if they are floating.

This elastic cord brings function and an unmatched curb appeal to all beading projects. Because it is only 0.88mm thick, hiding the knot inside one of the beads will be easy. Even if you want the thread for kids’ craft sessions, they will find it effortless to create beautiful, seamless DIY bracelets.

With a versatile beading thread, you can choose to explore your interests in different crafting projects. Apart from making jewelry pieces, this thread would also prove to be invaluable when making hanging ornaments and home décor pieces.

The crystal-look of this thread may leave you, assuming that it is not stable and resilient. This cannot be further from the truth. It is made from elastic polyester-spandex, and this means it is not only visually appealing but also sturdy and both fray and break-resistant.

You can tie the ends using various knotting techniques including the overhand knot, surgeon’s knot or square knot. Just see to it that the beads are firmly secured. To ensure that the knot does not undo itself prematurely, consider applying an adhesive before fixing it inside a bead.

Highlighted Features:

  • Crystal clear stretchy elastic.
  • Made from polyester spandex.
  • 0.88mm thick and 100 meters long.
  • User-friendly.

Types of Elastic Cord for Bracelets

You can find three main kinds of stretch cords, including stretch floss, clear bead string, and polyester. Dive in and let's analyze each type to understand its distinct features and benefits better.

Polyester String

This type of elastic cord comes in a variety of metallic, sparkles, and colors. Usually, it is used in applications where the aesthetics of the cord is a vital part of the design.

When making bracelets using larger beads, you can use this type of cord, although it may appear a little too bulky. You will need to be an actual pro to hide the knot appropriately.

If you are interested in an entry-level DIY project, make sure you settle for a polyester string brand that has a durable and stretchy filament.

Stretch Floss

The stretch floss elastic strings also come in a wide array of colors. However, the available number of sizes is limited. The most widely available sizes are 0.5mm and 0.7mm, which are mainly ideal for smaller beads.

This type of stretchy cord is made of several strings that are braided together to make the thread reasonably elastic. Users have an easier time tying the knot, compared to when using single-strand cords.

Also, the overall crafting of this string type makes it soft and excellent for gentle use. The majorities of stretch floss threads are abrasion-resistant although they fray as they wear out until only a single string is left.

In terms of durability, stretch floss cords of the cords assure you of using your bead, handcrafted accessories for many years.

Clear Bead Cord

Clear bead strings are considered the best stretchy cord for bracelets. They are round elastic strings with one thread. Their strength is unmatched, and you can get the treads in a range of sizes, making it easy for you to choose an ideal match for your beadwork project.

Some practice is needed for newbies to master how to tie inconspicuous knots.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I knot the stretchy cord for bracelets?

Various techniques can be used for making a knot, and the ideal one will depend on the thread you are using as well as your specific application. However, the simplest way to tie a firm knot is to cross over the two ends of your string at least two times.

Pull either end of the thread to affirm that your beads are close together. After this, trim the ends for a smooth finish, apply some jewelry glue to keep the tie in place and slide it under one of the beads to hide it.

2. Why does my elastic cord keep breaking?

The overall quality of different beading threads can differ a lot. However, the biggest culprit for making the cord to break prematurely is using the wrong adhesive.

Even though super glue works perfectly well with most strings, it makes others turn hard and break easily. Try using E6000 jewelry glue to mitigate this problem.

3. What is the ideal elastic thread to use for bracelets?

There are a variety of key aspects you must consider when choosing the best elastic for bracelets. For instance, you ought to take note of the weight of your beads and the diameter of their hole.

In case you are using seed beads, 5 mm stretchy cords from a reliable brand will work great. Most crafters, however, use 7 mm or 1 mm threads for making bracelets.

4. How do I measure beads?

Beads are commonly measured in millimeters (mm) with the help of a caliper. When using the device, slide the tips open and place your bead against either side. Get the tip closed down tightly before reading the measurements. If you are using a digital caliper, it will do the reading for you.

5. What are the ideal knots for making bracelets?

The topic of knot techniques for bead working is broad and extensive. When making bracelets, there are seven most common knots you can use. They include the surgeon's knot, square knot, half-hitch knot, lark's head knot, sliding knot, pretzel knot, and the overhand knot.

6. How do I cut my stretchy cord to make a clean cut?

When using extra stretchy beading threads, it is challenging to make a clean cut using meat scissors or wire cutters. To address this concern, invest in designer flush cutters or designer beading scissors.

7. How do I tuck the elastic cord inside a bead?

If you are a beadwork newbie, it takes patience and practice to master the simple art of sliding the knot inside a bead. For you to have an easier time doing this, always ensure that the size of the cord you use can slide easily into the bead hole and leave reasonable room for the knot.

In case the knot cannot fit into the hole in the bead, you have the option of using a crimp cover. This will conceal the knot and give your jewelry a sleek finished look.

Final Word

Beaded elastic bracelets are budget-friendly and easy to make but you need to identify which one best stretchy cord for bracelets. Hope our reviews help you to find out right one for you needs.

Whether you are a professional jeweler or a hobbyist, the key to making long-lasting handcrafted bracelets is to choose the right string.

Keep in mind that your thread is the foundation of your jewelry pieces, accessories, and craft items.

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Camden A Smith

Alarmed my friends who make jewellery like me rave about stretch magic but I think it’s atrocious. I used 4 and 6 mmeter beads and I am very good at tying knots in prepping the braclet. Once you tie two double knots in there it’s impossible to hide that not because formula metre in 6 mmeter beads just don’t have large holes so I would not recommend stretch magic for that at all I would just wire the bracelet.

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