Types of Wire and Cord

Elastic Wire Flexible and adjustable. It is often used for bracelets and only requires knot’s and/or a touch of glue to finish.

Memory Wire A pre-coiled stainless-steel wire that retains its shape. Very popular for bracelets, necklaces, rings, and even wine charm markers. Use with memory wire cutters.

Tiger Tail A commonly used bead stringing material. It has multiple wire strands and is covered with a nylon coating.

Craft Wire Soft and flexible for use in Jewelry and craft projects.

Leather Cord Always a popular stringing material as there is minimal finishing required. You can even simply add a pendant or centerpiece, tie a knot and go.

Suede Cord A soft material, very popular in necklace and bracelet making projects. ’Faux’ suede is quite durable and less costly than suede leather.

Silk Wire/Cord Used for beads with smaller holes such as freshwater pearls and beads under 5mm. Comes in a wide spectrum of colors.

Nylon Wire/Cord An all-purpose beading cord. You can use Beeswax to coat the cord to keep it from fraying and tangling when it is repeatedly threaded through beads with sharp edges. Comes in a wide spectrum of colors. A go to for seed beaders and weavers. Using light colors against a dark bead will lighten that bead color, and the reverse. For example: White cord with Garnet beads will add to the luminosity of the bead.

Organza/Silk Ribbon Comes in a wide variety of colors. Can add a touch of class to your project. Can also be used for ribbon embroidery and ribbon necklaces.

Cotton Wax Cord Resistant to abrasion, durable, and pliable. This kind of cord also hangs very nicely. Comes in various thicknesses and colors, and is suitable for weaving or stitching.