String material for jewelry and craft projects can range from a simple piece of nylon to a high-end piece of silk. The many different types of string material will ensure there is something for every project, but this can make it a little confusing to choose the right one. Let’s take a look at a few of the most popular string options for jewelry making:
Types of String for Jewelry Making
Nylon
Nylon is a highly versatile option that is practical for many different jewelry designs. It is a reliable option in woven bracelets and a useful choice for most general string-related situations. Nylon string is split into several different categories. One of the popular types is the Chinese knotting cord which is a type of braided nylon. This nylon is very strong and easily able to maintain its shape. Also, the KO beading thread is abrasion-resistant, strong, and easy to secure the ends tightly. Jewelry Making
Cotton
Cotton cord is a useful option for projects that can benefit from a distinctive look. This type of string material is created by combining several woven threads and applying a coating of wax to help minimize issues with fraying. It is great for stringing beads with a threaded hole in the region of 1 to 2 mm in thickness. Once the coating of wax is applied, the string is very clean and durable.
Elastic
Elastic cord is a useful option for making jewelry that needs a certain degree of flexibility, such as stretchy bracelets. The elastic nature of this string makes the jewelry very easy to remove. Once the jewelry beads are placed on the elastic, it is relatively easy to secure using a basic surgeon’s knot or similar. Also, for extra strength, the knot can easily be finished with a few drops of elastic-friendly glue. Jewelry Making
Polyethylene fiber
The use of polyethylene fiber is the right choice for pieces of jewelry that need a lot of strength. This material has the ability to give great all-around strength and is very easy to tie at the end of a project. It is a practical option for holding beads that aren’t smooth. Jewelry Making
Polyester cord
Polyester cord is a very strong and easy-to-use option for the macramé and Shamballa jewelry designs. It is a useful choice when working with beads that have a large thread hole. The string is very dependable and will not lose its shape or shrink when it comes into contact with moisture. Jewelry Making
Related Jewelry Blog
Festive Silver Jewelry Trends: Beautiful Styles for Every Celebration
Beautiful Styles for the Holiday Season Celebrations are special [...]
Nov
Christmas Silver Jewelry Trends 2026: Beautiful Styles for the Holiday Season
Christmas is one of the most exciting times of [...]
Nov
Cabochon vs Faceted Gemstones: What’s the Difference?
Gemstones are commonly cut as either cabochons or faceted [...]
Sep
Oval Cut Gemstones: A Guide to Their Elegant Shape
Oval cut gemstones are admired for their graceful proportions, [...]
Sep
Brooches Are Back: How to Wear This Classic Jewelry Piece
Brooches are making a stylish return. Once associated with [...]
Sep
Bangle vs Bracelet: What’s the Difference?
Bangles and bracelets are both worn around the wrist, [...]
Sep
Pendant Styles Explained: Popular Types and How to Choose
Choosing a pendant involves more than selecting a metal, [...]
Sep
Different Ring Settings: Prong, Bezel, Pavé, Channel and More
Choosing a ring involves more than selecting its metal [...]