It depends on your beads and the look you want. Here are common options:

• Elastic cord: Great for stretch bracelets and kids’ crafts. Choose a diameter that fits your bead holes snugly.
• Nylon-coated beading wire: A flexible wire for heavier beads and everyday wear. It’s sturdy and holds shape well.
• Nylon or polyester thread: Ideal for seed beads and bead weaving; knots easily and drapes nicely.
• Monofilament (clear): Creates a “floating” look; works for lightweight beads.
• Satin or nylon cord: Best for macramé, knotting styles, and large-hole beads.

Consider bead weight, hole size, desired stretch, and visibility. You’ll find a wide range of cords and diameters online with pickup or delivery options.

Bead stringing is the process of arranging and threading beads onto a cord to create jewelry or decor. The material can be elastic cord, nylon-coated beading wire, clear monofilament, or beading thread, depending on your project.

• Plan: Lay out your design and measure your wrist or necklace length.
• String: Add beads in order, using a needle if needed for small holes.
• Finish: Secure with knots (for elastic or thread) or crimps and a clasp (for beading wire). Hide knots in a larger bead or cover.

This differs from bead weaving, which stitches beads together with a needle and thread to form patterns and fabric-like designs.

In jewelry and crafts, a string of beads is often called a strand. You might also see terms like bead strand (loose beads pre-strung for display) and finished strand (a ready-to-wear necklace or bracelet). For decor, especially longer lengths, people sometimes say beaded garland.

On product pages, “strand” usually means beads grouped on temporary cord for easy selection and measuring, while “cord” or “beading wire” refers to the actual stringing material. If you’re shopping, check whether you’re viewing loose bead strands for crafting or finished jewelry to wear.

Match cord diameter to bead hole size and your technique:

• Seed beads (tiny): ~0.2–0.3 mm beading thread or fine braided thread. Use needles.
• Small to medium beads (4–8 mm): ~0.5–0.7 mm elastic for stretch bracelets, or thin beading wire for clasped pieces.
• Larger-hole beads (clay, wood): ~0.8–1.0 mm elastic or cord for a fuller look.
• Macramé/statement knots: ~1.5–2.0 mm satin or nylon cord.

If you plan to pass the cord through twice or add knots between beads, size down slightly so it fits. When in doubt, test with a single bead first. You’ll find multiple diameters available online with pickup and delivery options.

These tips can help improve durability, though results vary by use:

1. Pre-stretch the cord: Gently stretch before stringing to reduce slack later.
2. Choose the right size: Use the thickest elastic that fits comfortably through your bead holes.
3. Tie a secure knot: A surgeon’s knot (two overhands with an extra wrap) or a square knot can hold well.
4. Optional adhesive: A tiny drop of clear-drying jewelry glue on the knot can add hold; let it cure fully.
5. Hide the knot: Pull it into a larger bead for protection.
6. Wear with care: Roll bracelets on/off and avoid chemicals, heat, and prolonged sun.

These steps can extend wear without complicating your design.