Can you use fishing line for kandi bracelets?

Fishing line isn’t recommended for kandi bracelets because it has no stretch and can dig into your wrist. Use elastic cord instead.

What Is the Best Type of String to Use for Kandi?

Q: What is the best string for kandi bracelets?

The best string for kandi bracelets is fabric-covered elastic cord between 0.8mm and 1.2mm thick. It's durable, stretchy, and holds knots securely.

Q: Why does my kandi bracelet keep breaking?

Kandi bracelets often break when made with cheap plastic or clear elastic cord. These types lose tension quickly and snap easily. Switch to a fabric-covered elastic cord for a stronger bracelet.

Trippy Stuff
Nov 6
3 min read

Updated for 2026 – tested, trusted, and trade-approved.

Quick Answer

Use fabric-covered elastic cord between 0.8mm and 1.2mm thick. It’s durable, comfy, and keeps your kandi from snapping mid-trade. Avoid clear or plastic elastic because they stretch out, weaken fast, and don’t hold knots.

Spools of colorful elastic cord used for making kandi bracelets, featuring fabric-covered string in white, black, and rainbow colors on a holographic background with text reading ‘What’s the best string for kandi?’

Why the Best String for Kandi Matters

If you’ve ever had a kandi bracelet explode on the dance floor, you know the heartbreak. The type of string you use affects how your kandi looks, feels, and lasts (especially under festival heat, water, and dance-floor chaos.)

Strings You Shouldn’t Use for Kandi

1. Plastic Stretch Cord (like Stretch Magic)

Shiny and easy to find… but brittle.
Loses elasticity over time, especially in heat or moisture.
Knots slip unless melted (and melted plastic = gross).

2. Clear Jewelry Elastic

Looks sleek but snaps easily after a few wears.
Prone to cracking and losing tension.
Not built for high-energy trades or stacking bracelets.

3. Beading Thread or Fishing Line

Zero stretch = uncomfortable fit.
Beads can crack under pressure.
Digs into your wrist instead of moving with it.

Why Fabric-Covered Elastic Wins

Fabric-covered elastic (sometimes called pony bead cord) is the undisputed kandi favorite it's strong, soft, and built for the long haul.

1. Strong but Stretchy

The woven fabric shell keeps it flexible while preventing overstretching or snapping. Perfect for stacking kandi or trading all weekend.

2. Knots That Actually Hold

The fabric texture grips itself, so knots stay secure even in heat, sweat, or water. No more loose beads mid-rave.

3. Feels Soft on the Skin

The outer fabric makes it comfy to wear so there's no digging or irritation even with heavy stacks.

4. Long-Lasting Elasticity

Unlike plastic cords that stretch out permanently, fabric-covered elastic bounces back again and again.

The Ideal Thickness for Kandi

Thickness	Best For	Notes
0.8mm	Detailed or lightweight kandi	Easy threading for small pony beads
1.0mm	Everyday bracelets	Perfect balance of flexibility and strength
1.2mm	Chunky beads or multi-strand designs	Feels sturdy without being stiff

Avoid thinner than 0.8mm because it will fray and break easily. Avoid thicker than 1.2mm, the beads won’t fit through smoothly.

Recommended Kandi Strings (Amazon Affiliate Links)

Here are some reliable cords I’ve used and loved:

KONMAY 1.0mm Stretchy Bracelet String Pack – soft, durable, easy to knot.
Black and White Elastic Cord (0.8mm) – perfect for smaller designs.
Black or White Elastic Cord (1.2mm) – sturdy enough for chunky kandi.

(Affiliate disclaimer: I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.)

Pro Tips for Kandi-Making Success

✅ Pre-stretch your cord before beading to help bracelets keep their shape.

✅ Tie double or triple knots for durability - add a dab of clear nail polish or E6000 to seal.

✅ Skip superglue, it can melt the elastic fibers.

✅ Store your cord away from sunlight or humidity to extend its life.

💬 Quick Comparison

String Type	Stretch	Durability	Knot Grip	Comfort	Verdict
Plastic Stretch Cord	High	Low	Poor	OK	❌ Snaps easily
Clear Elastic	Medium	Low	Weak	Fair	⚠️ Temporary use
Fabric-Covered Elastic	High	High	Secure	Soft	✅ Best choice

✨ Final Thoughts

When it comes to kandi, your string choice matters as much as your bead colors. Fabric-covered elastic cord (0.8 - 1.2mm) gives you the perfect combo of stretch, comfort, and durability so your kandi stays strong through every trade, dance, and memory.

Now go make something that spreads PLUR 💖And if your favorite bracelet already snapped once… you know what to do.

🤔 FAQ

What’s the best string for kandi bracelets?

Fabric-covered elastic cord between 0.8mm and 1.2mm thick. It’s strong, flexible, and holds knots well.

Can you use fishing line for kandi?

Not recommended - it doesn’t stretch and can dig into your wrist.

Why does my kandi bracelet keep breaking?

You’re probably using clear or plastic elastic. Switch to fabric-covered cord and double-knot your ties.

What’s the best way to tie kandi bracelets?

A triple knot + a dab of clear nail polish or E6000 = unbreakable.

Should I use black, white, or multi colored kandi string?

Color comes down to what you think is the most aesthetic or bead color combos.