Have you ever noticed the small plastic or metal tips at the ends of your hoodie strings or backpack cords? These little accessories have a name—Drawstring cord end or aglets , and they’re more important than you might think!
In this guide, you’ll learn:
What aglets are and why they matter
Different types of drawstring cord ends
How to replace a missing or broken cord tip
Where to buy the best replacements
Why Do Drawstrings Need Cord Ends?
Aglets aren’t just for looks—they serve several key purposes:
✅ Prevent Fraying – Without a cord end, drawstrings unravel over time, making them harder to thread.
✅ Easy Threading – The stiff tip helps guide cords through fabric channels (like hoodies or backpacks).
✅ Durability – Protects the cord from wear and tear, especially with frequent adjustments.
Fun Fact: The word “aglet” comes from the Old French “aguillette,” meaning “little needle.”
Types of Drawstring Cord Ends
Not all aglets are the same! Here are the most common types:
1. Plastic Aglets
Pros: Affordable, lightweight, comes in colors.
Cons: Less durable than metal.
Best for: Hoodies, casual bags.
2. Metal Cord Tips
Pros: Stylish, long-lasting, premium look.
Cons: Heavier, can rust if not coated.
Best for: Shoelaces, backpacks, outdoor gear.
3. Silicone Stoppers
Pros: Flexible, grippy (prevents slippage).
Cons: Less common for threading.
Best for: Gym bags, adjustable cords.
4. DIY Alternatives
Heat-shrink tubing – Slides on and shrinks with heat.
Super glue + wax – Dip frayed ends in glue for a quick fix.
Beads or knots – Decorative but less secure.
How to Replace a Missing or Broken Cord End (Step-by-Step)
Method 1: Using Replacement Aglets (Best for permanent fix)
Trim the frayed end of the cord.
Slide the aglet onto the cord.
Crimp with pliers (for metal/plastic) or heat (for shrink tubes).
Method 2: Quick DIY Fixes
Lighter trick: Melt synthetic cords slightly to seal fraying.
Glue method: Coat the tip with super glue, let dry.
Pro Tip: For hoodies, thread the drawstring before adding new aglets!
Where to Buy Drawstring Cord Tips
Looking for replacements? Here’s what to consider:
Bulk packs (50+ pieces) for crafters or repair businesses.
Material (plastic for affordability, metal for durability).
Size (match your cord’s thickness—usually 3mm–5mm).
FAQ Section
Q: Can I reuse old aglets?
A: Rarely—they often break during removal. Better to replace them.
Q: What’s the cheapest way to fix a frayed drawstring?
A: Use a lighter to melt synthetic cords or dab glue on the tip.
Q: Are aglets only for clothing?
A: Nope! They’re also used for shoelaces, paracord bracelets, and camping gear.