Cord End

Definition and Overview

A cord end is hardware used to finish the ends of cords, round cords, flat cords, and tapes used on clothing and bags. By covering the tip, it improves appearance, helps prevent fraying, and keeps the end from slipping out of an eyelet hole or loop.

There are types that insert the cord into a tubular body, types that clamp the end of a tape, and types used in combination with a knot. It is secured by a method suited to its structure, such as crimping, caulking, sewing, or adhesive bonding.

Materials and Structure

Materials include metal, die-cast metal, and resin, each with different texture, weight, durability, and processing methods. Metal versions tend to create a sharp look, while resin versions may be suitable for reducing weight and matching colors.

Some metal versions have plated or painted surfaces. For round cords, the inner part is generally circular or nearly so; for flat cords and tapes, versions with a wide insertion opening are common. Some structures also have claws or caulking sections for fixing the end.

• Metal/die-cast: A material that makes it easy to create a sense of weight and decorative appeal.
• Resin: A lightweight material that makes it easier to offer shape and color options through molding.
• For round cords: Fit is mainly checked by inner diameter.
• For flat cords/tapes: Check the inner width of the insertion opening and the thickness.

How to Express Size

The size of a cord end is checked not only by the outer length and width, but also by the inside dimensions of the part that holds the cord or tape. For round cords, compare the inner diameter with the actual measured cord diameter; for flat cords and tapes, compare the inner width of the insertion opening with the tape width to be used.

The actual passage dimension of cords and tapes changes depending on thickness, weave density, and folded-back ends. Even if a size seems acceptable on paper, it may not fit once the thickness of the crimped area or adhesive is included, so prototype verification with the actual item is important.

Main Applications

Used at the ends of hood and hem drawcords, waist cords, spindles, and bag drawstrings. While also serving as an end finish, it can function as a design accent for the product.

In outerwear, sports and outdoor apparel, workwear, kids' clothing, and bags, the cord is repeatedly pulled during wear and opening/closing. Selection should take into account the load on the application point and the visual balance with other hardware and textiles.

How to Choose and Points of Caution

First decide the type of cord or tape to be used, the inside dimensions, and the fixing method. For locations subject to pulling loads, evaluate not only the cord end itself, but also the strength of the cord, pull-out resistance of the fixed section, and the combination with eyelets or cord stoppers.

Metal versions may change the drape and wearing feel depending on weight. Also, depending on conditions of use such as moisture, sweat, washing, and friction, rust, plated-surface wear, or discoloration may occur. If necessary, conduct wash tests and friction tests.

For children's products or products that undergo needle detection, confirm the fixing specification is difficult to detach and whether needle detector compatibility is required. Products containing metal must be checked in advance for compatibility with the operating conditions of the needle detector, and should be handled as part of foreign-matter contamination prevention measures.

Differences from Similar Terms

A cord stopper is hardware used to adjust the length and tightening of a cord. In contrast, a cord end is mainly hardware for finishing the end of a cord, and the two may be used together on a drawcord.

An eyelet washer is reinforcing hardware installed in textile, leather, or similar materials to allow a cord to pass through. A cord end is attached to the end of the cord after it passes through the eyelet, so the attachment position and role are different.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much larger should the inner dimension of a cord end be than the cord thickness?

Check not only the actual measured cord diameter, but also the bulge of the weave, fray prevention at the end, and the thickness of folded-back sections or adhesive during fixing. Too much clearance can cause wobbling or pull-out, so the basic approach is to prototype the threading and fixing with the actual cord to be used.

Can a cord end and a cord stopper be used together?

Yes. The cord stopper adjusts the tightening position of the cord, while the cord end suppresses fraying and pull-out at the tip. However, make sure the stopper opening, eyelet diameter, and cord end outer shape do not interfere with each other.

What should be noted when using a metal cord end in products that will be washed?

Assume rust, discoloration, and wear of the surface finish caused by moisture, detergent, sweat, and friction, and check for contamination of the textile as well. Loosening at the attachment part and textile damage from edges may also occur, so it is desirable to perform washing and friction tests on the finished product.