What Type of Stretch Cord Should I Use for My Project?

Consider type, thickness and color:

1. Round Elastic Cord.  Common brands are Stretch Magic and Powercord.  This is a single rubbery strand that comes in clear, black and pearl and common diameter sizes include  .5 mm, .7mm, .8mm, 1.0mm, 1.5mm and 1.8 mm.  It is strong and holds its shape well,  but it is harder to make the knot given its slippery nature, unless glued.  The knot is bulkier as well but can be hidden in a larger hole bead or charm bail used as the first or last bead on a project.  It is best secured with a double surgeon’s knot with a tab of G-H Hypo Cement that has a fine point applicator tip.  
2. Stretch Floss: This is made from multiple strands of woven elastic giving it a fibrous nature.  It is very stretchy and easy to make a small knot given its flat nature.  If it is not cut with sharp fabric or fiber scissors, it can fray, and while some say glue is not necessary to use, we always add a dab of G-S Hypo Cement.   Floss is less expensive than elastic cord and typically is available in .5mm and .7mm, suitable for small holed beads but it  can be doubled and strung with a needle, commonly done for the hidden knot method. Opelon is our brand of choice, available in white and black,  but there are others that come in more colors.
3. Elastic Core Polyester Cord.  This comes in a wide variety of colors and in diameters much thicker than Floss and Elastic Cord, such as 2-4mm.  It is often used for hair accessories or when stringing large hole beads and is a good choice when the cording is visible because of its expansive color choices.  However, it stretches out of shape with extended use so it is not a great choice for jewelry.