Silk is a popular thread option when it comes to stringing, and it accompanies pearl beads and stone beads quite beautifully. When it comes to jewelry making, silk is a superior choice compared to nylon because it’s highly durable and friendly even to the most sensitive skin.
What are the best silk cords for necklaces? You should get a durable silk cord that has a diameter suitable for your intended beads. Jewelry supply brands like Griffin and Beadsmith offer great options in a wide range of colors and sizes.
In this article, let’s take a look at what you will need to know when buying silk cords for necklaces and the best options for your next creation!
Buying Guide
Although buying silk cords may seem straightforward, there is actually a lot more to consider! That’s why we have prepared this helpful buying guide to help you with all the things you need to know about buying silk cords for necklaces.
Thickness
When it comes to choosing a cord for your beads, the first step is to find the size that fits the smallest bead hole.
Of course, you’ll want the cord to fit through the bead, but finding the size that fits perfectly with the smallest bead will allow you to keep the beads in their position and prevent them from moving and slipping.
If you know what type of bead you are using, check out the size of the bead hole. This number will help you identify the right size silk cord.
Silk cords actually come in a few different sizes, identified by numbers and letters. If this is confusing, you can use the size in inches or millimeters and match it with the size of your bead.
Here is a helpful guide for cord sizing:
| Name | Actual Size |
| 0 | 0.005” / 0.13mm |
| 00 | 0.006” / 0.15 mm |
| A | 0.007” / 0.18mm |
| B | 0.008” / 0.2mm |
| C | 0.0108” / 0.27mm |
| D | 0.012” / 0.3mm |
| E | 0.0128” / 0.33mm |
| F | 0.0137” / 0.35mm |
| FF | 0.015” / 0.38mm |
| FFF | 0.0165” / 0.42mm |
| #2 | 0.18” / 0.45mm |
| #4 | 0.24” / 0.6mm |
| #6 | 0.28” / 0.7mm |
Stretch
Silk cords usually don’t stretch, which allows the cord to knot evenly. However, this also limits the type of design that you can do with silk cords.
If you would like some stretch to the cord, you should opt for another material, such as nylon cords, which are similarly durable.
Construction
Most silk cords have durable three-ply construction, also known as ‘triple twisted.’ This construction means three big groups of fibers are twisted tightly together (similar to the construction of the robe), which allows the silk cord to hold knots brilliantly.
However, silk cords can be prone to fraying because of this construction – you’ll notice that the plies will start to separate as soon as you cut them. There are techniques that you can use to prevent fraying, but it can be a bit difficult for beginners who are new to silk cords.
Color
Silk cords are not your basic jewelry cords – they are usually available in a wide range of colors that can accommodate many different designs!
If you want the cord to be a design feature in your necklace, then make sure to check out the color options available for your particular choice of silk cord.
Spool Vs. Card
Silk cords come in a big spool or as small cards. The big spools will usually give you about 200 yards (or more) of the same colored silk cord, while small cards will only have 2-5 meters of cord, but you can opt for a variety pack with tons of color options.
What to get is really up to you! If you know what you like and want lots of it, then buying a big spool of silk cord will last you a really long time. If you want to experiment with sizes and colors, then getting a pack of smaller cards can really give you a wide variety of silk cord colors and sizes.
Best Silk Cords For Necklaces
Now that you know about the ins and outs of silk cords let’s take a look at some great options below.
| Rank | Product | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | The Beadsmith Pure Silk Cord | Sizes 0, 00, D - FFF available |
| 2. | Beadalon 106A-120 Silk Thread, Variety Pack | Pack includes sizes #2, #4, #6 |
| 3. | Griffin 100% Silk Bead Cord Thread Sampler Pack | Size #4 |
| 4. | Griffin Silk Beading Cord | Size #4 |
| 5. | Bead Buddy 0.6mm Black Silk Cord Thread | Size #4 |
| 6. | SSCC Grey Silk Spool | Sizes E - FFF available |
| 7. | Simply Silk Beading Thread Cord | Size FF |
1. The Beadsmith Pure Silk Cord
The Beadsmith Pure Silk Cord is a twisted three-ply cord with a soft sheen and is extremely supple. It is also very strong and durable, making it ideal for jewelry making.
This pure silk cord can be used to make bracelets, necklaces, and other types of jewelry. The three-ply construction and the 100% silk material make it durable enough to withstand scratching, stretching, and wear & tear.
One half-ounce spool will give you 140 yards of material. This type of cord is also available in a variety of colors and sizes, making it ideal for whatever project you’re imagining!
2. Beadalon 106A-120 Silk Thread, Variety Pack
Beadalon Silk Thread is a great choice for making dainty necklaces and other intricate beadwork projects.
The smooth, soft texture of this silk thread makes it easy to manipulate into any shape you like, and its high-quality construction ensures that your project will stand up to wear and tear from daily use.
This variety pack will give you five cards of silk cords in a variety of sizes, including #2, #4, and #6 cords. Each card will give you 2 meters of cords, which means you will have plenty of materials to make a necklace or bracelet in the size that you want.
3. Griffin 100% Silk Bead Cord Thread Sampler Pack
The Griffin 100% Silk Bead Cord Thread Sampler Pack is a great way to try out different looks for your necklace. The sampler pack contains 20 cards of silk cords in 20 different colors.
These cords are made with 100% high-quality silk fibers, and they are dyed using natural dyes. Each card has a stainless steel needle threader attached to it, so you can easily remove the cords without damaging them.
These cords are very strong and lightweight, so they will not weigh your jewelry down. They have a beautiful sheen that makes them stand out in any design.
The size #4 silk cords are perfect for making jewelry and other creative projects. The wide range of colors gives you lots of options to experiment with, and each card will give you 2 meters of material.
4. Griffin Silk Beading Cord
The Griffin Silk Beading Cord is a 100% natural silk cord. The thread comes with an attached needle that allows you to pass the cord through your beads without the cords bulking up, which makes it super easy to use.
This silk thread can be used in any jewelry-making project and will hold its shape well, even through wear and tear.
The size #4 cord is great for making bracelets or necklaces that have large beads or multiple smaller beads. You can also use this site if you’re looking for a bit more durability and strength in your jewelry projects.
This card will give you 2 meters of material, and you also have a choice of colors, so you can always find whatever cord that suits your imagination!
5. Bead Buddy 0.6mm Black Silk Cord Thread
The Bead Buddy 0.6mm (size #4) Black Silk Cord is a perfect thickness to work with pearls and beads, especially for making beautiful necklaces, bracelets, or anklets.
Crafted from the finest 100% silk cord, this product features a triple-twisted design for added strength and durability. The black color of this cord will compliment any jewelry item you’re making as well as any outfit you’re wearing.
This card gives you 2 meters of material, which is enough to make a few necklaces. The black silk cord comes with a needle attached to the cord, so it’s ready to go right out of the pack.
6. SSCC Grey Silk Spool
The SSCC Grey Silk Cord is a great silk cord for all your beading projects. This silk cord is made from 100% pure silk and is available in four sizes: E, F, FF, FFF.
The variety of sizes means this silk cord can be used in a variety of projects, to string beads or pearls for beautiful jewelry designs. It is also a good choice for making bracelets and necklaces.
This is a great silk cord with a nice feel. It is strong and durable but still soft to the touch. This silk cord comes in a 200-yard spool, so it’s great for streamlining your creations.
7. Simply Silk Beading Thread Cord
This silk cord from Simply Silk is a highly versatile and long-lasting option. It’s perfect for beading, especially in jewelry making.
This durable thread is 100% silk, which means it’s soft, silky, and smooth. It’s easy to work with and has a great drape. Thanks to the triple twisted construction, it’s also highly resistant to stretching or tearing.
This spool will give you 115 yards of pure silk threads for your jewelry-making project. The cord comes in size FF, which is a great size for beading and knotting.
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