Wholesale Cords and Drawstrings for Clothing

Round and flat cords for hoods, trousers, backpacks, bags and packaging – in a range of thicknesses, materials and colours. Direct from the manufacturer, in stock and made to order.

Cords for clothing – function and style in one

Cords for clothing do a practical job – they tighten, tie and adjust – but at the same time they are a visible element that shapes the look of the product. The drawstring in a sweatshirt hood, the waist of joggers or the opening of a backpack is often the first thing the customer touches. That is why the choice of material, thickness and colour matters both for function and for how the brand is perceived.

Polkom, a manufacturer and wholesaler of garment accessories, supplies cords to manufacturers of clothing, sports equipment, bags and packaging across the EU – from stock or made to order.

Types of cord

Round cords

Braided round cords with a circular cross-section – for backpacks, bags, hoods, track pants and packaging. They thread easily through eyelets and cord stoppers and glide smoothly.

Flat cords

Flat (tape-style) cords – for sweatshirt hoods and the waists of joggers and shorts. They lie flat, do not twist and look cleaner on the garment.

Cords with a core

Cords with an inner core are denser and hold their shape – suitable for bags, outdoor equipment and products under heavier load.

Applications

  • hoods on sweatshirts, jackets and anoraks;
  • waists of joggers, shorts, nightwear and swimwear;
  • adjustable hems on jackets and windbreakers;
  • backpacks, gym bags and drawstring pouches;
  • gift and promotional packaging;
  • hanger loops, hang tags and accessories.

Materials and thicknesses

  • polyester – strong, colourfast, suitable for sportswear and bags;
  • cotton – soft, with a natural look, for casualwear and childrenswear;
  • polypropylene – light and moisture-resistant, for packaging and technical applications;
  • blended and elastic versions – when some stretch is needed.

Thicknesses range from thin cords of around 2–3 mm for packaging and pouches to dense cords of 8–10 mm and more for backpacks and outdoor products. When choosing, match the thickness to the eyelet or buttonhole opening the cord will pass through and to the load – for backpacks and bags that carry weight, a polyester cord with a core is better. If you send us the eyelet size, we will suggest a suitable diameter.

Colours, cord ends and complete sets

Cords are available in solid, marl and multicolour versions, and on request we dye to Pantone to match the fabric. For a finished look, the cord is usually combined with metal or plastic cord ends, cord stoppers and eyelets. You will find these in the accessories section and can order them together with the cords – we will check that the diameters are compatible.

If you are looking for an elastic cord for loops or face masks, see our elastics.

Why Polkom

  • round and flat cords in various materials and thicknesses;
  • Pantone colour matching and fast sampling;
  • complete sets with cord ends, cord stoppers and eyelets;
  • delivery across the EU.

How to order cords

Send us the type (round or flat), thickness, material, colour, cut length (if needed) and approximate quantity. We prepare a sample before the run. Minimum quantities depend on the article – send an enquiry via the contact page. Browse the rest of our haberdashery too.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What cord is suitable for a sweatshirt hood?
For hoods, a flat cord about 10–15 mm wide or a round cord 5–8 mm in diameter, in polyester or cotton, is most often used. A flat cord lies neatly and looks clean, while a round one slides easily through the eyelets. Choose the diameter to suit the eyelet opening and combine it with a matching cord end.
Do you offer cords with cord ends?
Yes. Cords can be combined with metal or plastic cord ends, as well as cord stoppers and eyelets from our accessories section. You can order them in a single enquiry, and we will check that the diameters match. For pre-cut cords with cord ends, state the length you need.
Can the cord match the colour of the fabric?
Yes. In addition to the standard colours in stock, we dye cords to Pantone or to a fabric sample. Marl and multicolour versions are also available to emphasise a sporty or casual style. Before the run you receive a sample for approval, and minimum quantities depend on the article – send an enquiry.
Which cord material is the most durable?
Polyester cords are the most resistant to wear, washing and fading and are preferred for sportswear, backpacks and bags. Polypropylene is light and does not absorb moisture, so it suits packaging and technical products. Cotton is softer but also less resistant to intensive use.
Custom offer

Looking for a specific model, colour or size?

Send us an inquiry with a description or photo – you will receive an offer, samples and a production lead time.