In this article, we’ve compiled a selection of product styles that are commonly used for drawcord applications, based on the many inquiries we receive.
We also introduce recommended product codes, reference links, and compatible accessories such as cord stoppers and toggles. If you’re wondering which type of cord to choose or what hardware works best, we hope this guide serves as a helpful starting point for your design and sourcing decisions.
What Is a Drawcord?
A drawcord refers to any type of cord or string threaded through garments such as pants, outerwear, sleeves, hems, waistbands, or hoods. In some cases, drawcords are used together with stoppers, toggles, or cord locks/stoppers.
By adding a drawcord, designers can:
- Adjust the garment silhouette
- Prevent slipping or loosening
- Improve protection against wind and rain
- Enhance both functionality and design details
Below, we’ve organized commonly used drawcords by type and application, along with recommended product styles.
Round Elastic Cords (Elastic Drawcords)
These are most commonly used in outdoor and casual apparel, especially for sleeves and hems. Typical sizes range from 2.5–3.0 mm, often in a hard type for better hold.
3112-T Polyester Round Elastic (Hard Type)
- Material: Polyester / Rubber
- Sizes: 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm, 3.5mm
- Colors: 57
This is one of the most frequently used items on ApparelX, with many positive reviews.
It offers a balanced firmness, making it suitable for blousons, jackets, and rainwear.
With a wide color range—including patterns and fluorescent colors—this is a great first option when selecting elastic drawcords.
SIC-3141 Stretch Cord (Hard Type)
- Material: Polyester
- Sizes: 2mm, 2.5mm, 3mm
- Colors: 80
Another popular drawcord option.
Compared to 3112-T, this style offers an even wider color selection, which may help when matching specific design colors.
👉 Browse more round elastic cords on ApparelX
Flat Drawcords (Flat Cords)
Flat drawcords are commonly used for pant waistbands and hoodie hoods.
When searching, keywords such as flat cord, flat drawstring, or spindle tape are helpful.
A-400F Flat Spindle Cord (Approx. 8mm)
- Material: 100% Acrylic
- Size: Approx. 8mm
- Colors: 80
A standard flat drawcord with a generous color lineup, making it easy to specify for various designs.
23300 Cotton Knit Tape
- Material: 100% Cotton
- Sizes: 9mm, 15mm, 18mm, 9×9mm
- Colors: 18
A soft, cotton knit flat cord with a natural hand feel.
Pairs especially well with hoodies and knit garments.
SIC-3270 Bright Flat Cord (Tubular)
- Material: 100% Polyester
- Sizes: M (approx. 11mm), L (approx. 20mm)
- Colors: 11
A glossy, high-color flat cord ideal for designs that require a more polished or eye-catching finish.
3165 Cotton Flat Cord
- Material: 100% Cotton
- Sizes:
- SS (approx. 4.5mm)
- S (approx. 6mm)
- M (approx. 7mm)
- L (approx. 11mm)
- LL (approx. 15mm)
- Colors: 26
A soft cotton flat cord with a natural texture, suitable for casual and lifestyle apparel.
Round Cords (Non-Elastic)
These cords are highly versatile and often used for pant waists, sleeve hems, and hood strings.
Searching by cord or spindle cord works well.
22204 Acrylic Cord
- Material: 100% Acrylic
- Sizes:
- S (approx. 3.5mm)
- M (approx. 5mm)
- L (approx. 7mm)
- Colors: 101
A classic, standard cord with an extensive color range.
Also popular for drawstring bags.
3325 Polyester Core Cord
- Material: 100% Polyester
- Sizes: S (3mm), H (4mm), M (5mm), L (7mm)
- Colors: 25
Features an internal core for structure—firm but not overly stiff.
Recommended for hoodie drawstrings.
SIC-3234 Bright Spindle Cord (Approx. 5mm)
- Material: 100% Polyester
- Size: Approx. 5mm
- Colors: 22
A lame (metallic) spindle cord that adds a subtle accent.
Ideal for designers looking for something different without being too bold.
SIC-3049 Mélange Cord
- Material: 100% Polyester
- Sizes: S (3mm), M (5mm)
- Colors: 9
A mélange-style round cord with a textured look.
Great for those who want visual interest without excessive shine.
Flat Tapes (Drawcord Tapes)
Often used specifically for pant drawcords. Searching by tape is recommended.
6250 Cotton Herringbone Tape (0.5mm Thickness)
- Material: 100% Cotton
- Sizes:
6mm, 10mm, 13mm, 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, 30mm, 38mm, 50mm - Colors: 10
A classic cotton herringbone tape suitable for casual and workwear styles.
Adjustment Parts & Accessories
When length adjustment is needed, drawcords are often paired with cord stoppers or rings.
Silicone Stoppers
KNR7191 Silicone Pig Nose Cord Stopper
- Hole Size: 2.1mm
- Colors: 2
Frequently used with round elastic cords.
👉 For custom silicone colors, please refer to the related blog
👉 Browse more silicone parts on ApparelX
Cord Locks
CS3040N Cord Lock (2-Hole Type)
- Hole Size: 4mm (2 holes)
- Colors: 5
A convenient option for easy length adjustment.
👉 Browse more cord stoppers on ApparelX
Rings
BP5522 Cord Ring
- Inner Diameter: 10mm / 13mm / 15mm
- Colors: 6
👉 Browse more rings and O-rings on ApparelX
Eyelets (Grommets)
Eyelets are often used to reinforce the holes where cords pass through.
Standard Eyelets – SE Series
SE300
A standard eyelet with a slightly raised surface.
Flat Eyelets – SPF Series
SPF300
A flat-surface eyelet for a cleaner finish.
👉 Browse more eyelets and sizes on ApparelX
Finishing the Cord Ends
Depending on the design, cord ends can be:
- Knotted
- Sewn
- Heat-cut
- Finished with tips or aglets
We offer different ways to finish the tips so please send us an inquiry if you’re interested.
Summary
We often receive inquiries asking for recommended drawcord options, so we decided to compile this guide as a reference list.
Did you find a style that matches your design needs?
We hope this article helps with drawcord/drawstring selection and garment design inspiration.
Looking for apparel materials?
Visit ApparelX, a B2B sourcing platform for apparel trims and materials.
👉 Browse ribbons, tapes, and cords on ApparelX
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