Jewellery making with silk cords: SILK CORDS (FAQ)

Silk cords are becoming especially trendy recently, so you may want to make it a new venture for your business! With many styles of silk cords available, for example; habotai, sari and round silk cords with inserts, there are so many possibilities. We offer all of these types of silk cords, so we can be your one-stop-shop for all things silk. In this blog we answer some of the typical questions you may have if you are just starting out with using silk as a material for your jewellery-making adventure.

What can silk cords be used for?

Silk cord has been used as a stringing material in jewellery-making for centuries. No other beading cord offers the softness that natural silk provides. Jewellery designs made with 100% silk drape beautifully and the cord itself can become a feature with knotting techniques.

Are silk cords strong?

Whilst silk is wonderfully soft and smooth, it is also incredibly strong and has very little stretch. Because of this it is a classic stringing material, perfect for knotting and creating natural drape by following the needs of your project.

What is special about silk?

Silk is a natural fibre known for its lustre, shine, strength, and durability, and it has a long trading history across the world. Silk is the epitome of luxury due to its high cost to produce, soft feel, and elegant appearance, and thus, it is a popular textile in high-end and couture fashion design.

How is the packaging of silk cords?

Our silk cords are divided into groups of 10 cords, each piece is 1 meter long. We can also produce silk in long lengths too. The silk cords can be customized to your specific needs.

How to treat silk cords?

Try to keep your silk cord dry as much as possible. If the cord becomes wet, air-dry in the shade. If the cord becomes dirty you can hand wash it in warm water with a gentle, natural soap. Never use bleaches or harsh cleaners as this will destroy the silk.

Does silk damage easily?

Yes. Silk is a very delicate type of material. It is commonly used to make clothing and, unlike other materials such as cotton, which is much more forgiving when it comes to laundering and fabric care, silk is particularly susceptible to stains and damage from heat and light.

Is silk water resistant?

One of the limitations and drawbacks to the practical use of silk as a structural material is its water sensitivity. Namely, silk protein-based materials are highly sensitive to water.

What are two advantages of silk?

Silk is highly absorbent and dries fast. It absorbs moisture up to 30% of its own weight and remains dry to the touch. At the same time, silk thread simply increases in size, and good air circulation promotes rapid evaporation of excessive moisture. Silk fabric absorbs perspiration while letting the skin breathe.

What are the kinds of silk offered by the company?

We produce silk ribbons in different sizes and widths. The material is hand dyed so colours can be customized as well. The types of silk we offer are habotai silk, chiffon silk, sari silk, satin silk etc amongst others. Send us an email on info@sunenterprises.eu if you need more information or if you desire customization. We can also offer silk filled with inserts and available in various sizes from 3mm, 4mm, 6mm, 8mm as well. Silk with inserts are very popular for jewellery making.

Can silk dry in the sun?

Do not dry silk in direct sunlight. Exposing silk to long bursts of sunlight can cause the colours to fade or even damage your silk goods.

What temperature can silk handle?

Choose a gentle wash cycle and temperature. Machine washing silk in cool water to cold water is ideal. Temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit (29 Celsius) can damage silk significantly. It is best to wash all silk products in cold water.

Is silk vegan friendly?

Silk is a natural protein fibre composed mainly of fibroin produced by the silkworm larvae to form a cocoon. In its strictest term, it is a by-product of the animal and not vegan.

What was silk first used for?

Silk was used for musical instruments, fishing-lines, bowstrings, bonds of all kinds, and even rag paper, the word's first luxury paper. Eventually even the common people were able to wear garments of silk. During the Han Dynasty, silk ceased to be a mere industrial material and became an absolute value in itself.

Sun Enterprises is a leading manufacturer and wholesaler of round leather cords, silk and jewelry components, including (stainless steel) locks. We have all these locks mentioned above in our range in all kinds of different sizes, colors and styles. We also offer the option to personalize your locks. We do this by means of lasering on mainly magnetic locks. Logos, texts and images are no problem for us. Are you interested in our lock collection or are you looking for a specific model?

Check out our website www.sunenterprises.eu. Do you have personal wishes? Then contact us! We are happy to help you to realize that perfect design of yours. Our open warehouse in Almere is also always open for a visit for both issues.


We look forward to seeing your creations!


The Sun Enterprises Team