Gimp string is a craft cord. Most often, it refers to flat or round plastic lacing used to weave keychains, bracelets, and lanyards. On our site you’ll also see “gimp” used for two other, distinct items: decorative gimp braid trim for sewing/upholstery, and coiled metallic “French wire” (bullion) for embroidery and jewelry.

• Plastic lacing: Smooth cord in solids, glitter, or laser finishes; sold in kits, rolls, or pre-cut lengths.
• Gimp braid trim: Decorative ribbon-style braid for edging garments, costumes, and home décor.
• French wire gimp: Flexible coil wire (often about 1 mm) for protecting thread near jewelry findings or for couching in embroidery.

Choosing the right type depends on your project and the finish you want.

Many crafters use project-focused names today. If you’re searching, these terms can help you find the right supplies:

• Plastic lacing cord or craft lace for the flat/round cord used in boondoggle projects.
• Lanyard string when you’re making keychains or ID lanyards.
• Boondoggle cord or scoubidou in kids’ craft sets.
• Gimp braid trim for the decorative sewing ribbon.
• French wire or bullion wire for the coiled metallic wire used in jewelry and embroidery.

On Walmart.com, browsing categories like Ribbons, Trim & Embellishments or Beading & Jewelry Making can help you narrow by material, width, and color. Since product names vary, checking photos and measurements is a reliable way to confirm the style you need.

They’re related terms, but they don’t always mean the same thing.

• Gimp (plastic lacing): The cord itself—usually a flat or round plastic lace—used for weaving.
• Lanyard: The finished item (like a keychain or neck strap) or the general craft of weaving with that cord.
• Other “gimp” types: Gimp braid trim (sewing) and French wire/bullion (embroidery/jewelry) are different materials that share the word “gimp.”

When shopping, choose by material and use:

• For woven keychains/bracelets: plastic lacing in assorted colors.
• For garment or décor edging: gimp braid trim by the yard.
• For jewelry and embroidery finishes: French wire coils in a suitable gauge.

Checking width, yardage, and finish can help match supplies to your project.

The name comes from the material and craft tradition. These bracelets are woven from plastic “gimp” lacing using simple stitches (like box, spiral, or cobra styles). Over time, camp projects and craft kits popularized calling the finished piece a “gimp bracelet.”

• Also known as: Boondoggle bracelets or scoubidou.
• Typical features: Bright colors, flat or round lace, and repeatable weave patterns.
• Where you’ll see it: Assorted color sets, glitter or metallic-look cords, and multi-roll kits are common for groups and classes.

Names can vary by region and craft community, so searching “lanyard string bracelet” or “plastic lacing bracelet” can surface similar projects and supplies.

For most starter keychains and bracelets, a medium-width plastic lacing is a versatile pick.

• Plastic lacing: Cords around 3/32 in wide (or a similar round diameter) balance easy handling with a tidy look. Wider, flat lace may be simpler for beginners; thinner lace can create tighter, finer weaves.
• Project scale: Chunky key fobs or bold bracelets may benefit from wider lace; smaller charms or detailed patterns may work better with thinner lace.
• Other “gimp” types: For jewelry finishing, French wire around 1 mm (often listed as 18 gauge) can suit many stringing materials; select gauge based on your thread or cord.

Review the product’s width and yardage, and consider assorted-color kits if you’re practicing different stitches.