The Beadsmith Artificial Sinew – Waxed Polyester Cord, Natural Color, 5-Ply, 4 oz, 131 yds / 394 ft

Real Animal Sinew has been used for hundreds of years as an excellent material for sewing and binding. The fibrous band of tendon tissue is strong and durable, often used as sewing thread. With the onslaught of the industrial age, man-made fibers were created, and Artificial Sinew was born.

Also known as Imitation Sinew, this cord is made of polyester that is coated in wax. It is flat and ribbon-like in shape, uniform in texture and can easily be split into thinner strips, to work on a variety of crafts. The Beadsmith sells sinew four sizes and an array of colors, ideal for a medley of projects.

Natural sinew is often made from deer or buffalo, and originally used by Native Americans to create clothing and accessories. Artificial sinew is ideal for tasks that require a strong, flat, waxy cord. The cord is designed for traditional Indian arts such as wrapping arrowheads and knife handles, basket weaving, making dream catchers, creating medicine pouches, sewing moccasins, making pine needle rims and more.

This filament is extremely durable, with an average 50-70 pound tensile strength, making it ideal for jewelry makers who like working with heavy glass and ceramic beads. Leather smiths use sinew when producing and repairing bags, shoes and clothing, as well as hand sewers who do needle work such as journal making and bookbinding.