How to Size Cotton Cords

Waxed cotton cords can act as a leather cord substitute and are stronger.

Cotton cord can be used as a leather cord substitute, but determining the size can be tricky for types such as the waxed cotton cord. Most manufacturers measure the cotton cord width by the millimeter, while measuring the length in either yards or meters. The width is what determines the size of the cord, but some types can be difficult to gauge as the width can vary throughout the length of the cord.

Things You'll Need

• Cotton cord
• Ruler

Instructions

1. Measure the cord's end using your ruler and note how many millimeters thick the cord is. This is the measurement used to size cotton cords. If the cord is not circular, measure the widest part of the cord's end.

2. Determine if the cord is the same width throughout. Waxed cotton cord can sometimes vary in width throughout the length of the cord.

3. Measure the widest part of the cord if the width varies throughout. Compare this to the cord end measurement, and round to the nearest 0.5 millimeter. Most cords range from 0.5 millimeters to 3 millimeters in size.

4. Research the brand or manufacturer of a cotton cord if you are considering purchasing a cord online without seeing the product in person. Sometimes manufacturers mislabel the size of their cord, sending you one that can be twice as wide as the manufacturer advertised. To ensure you get what you pay for, you can also email or call the retailer or manufacturer to ensure the cord will be what you want.

References

• Land of Odds: Waxed Cotton Cord
• Beads Manufacturer: Leather Cords