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Metal Cord Locks and Drawstring Stoppers

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What Is a Metal Cord Lock?

A metal cord lock or drawstring stopper is an adjustable component used to control the movement of a cord, lace, string or compatible round elastic. Pressing the operating button aligns or releases the internal passages so that the cord can move. Releasing the button allows the mechanism to apply pressure and help retain the selected adjustment.

The verified base-body material used throughout this category is zinc alloy, also known as zamak. Zinc alloy allows compact functional mechanisms and multiple decorative body shapes to be produced.

A metal cord lock does not finish the cut end of a drawstring. Use cord ends and drawstring tips for the terminal sections. Both components may be used together within the same cord assembly.

Which Metal Cord Lock Should Be Selected?

Application Requirement Model to Consider Specification to Check
Adjust one cord through a shared passage Single-hole metal cord lock Actual and lightly compressed cord diameter
Keep two ends in separate channels Double-hole metal cord lock Internal size and routing direction of each channel
Release two ends with one movement Single-button double-hole model Compatibility of both channels with the selected cord
Use a flat or oval-profile drawstring Rectangular-entry metal cord lock Drawstring width and thickness
Use a small compact component Mini, small flat or small-dot model Outside body size, button area and operating comfort
Create a rounded decorative detail Ball, mine, semicircular, cube or model-specific shape Body dimensions, weight and visual scale
Route or operate the cord from a different direction Side-bridge or directional model Cord route and access to the operating button
Coordinate the lock with other metal hardware Zinc-alloy model with a selected finish Finish appearance, availability and surface contact

Single-Hole and Double-Hole Metal Cord Locks

A single-hole metal cord lock provides one shared passage and is normally used with one cord. Two fine ends may only be used together where their combined compressed size is compatible with the opening.

A double-hole metal cord lock keeps two cord ends in separate passages. It may help maintain parallel cord routing on hood, waistband and bag applications.

A double-hole model is not automatically stronger than a single-hole model. Holding performance depends on cord size, surface friction, spring pressure and internal passage geometry rather than the number of holes alone.

Cord-Lock Structure Cord Arrangement Selection Note
Single hole One shared passage For one cord or compatible fine ends using one route
Double hole Two independent passages For keeping two cord ends separate and parallel
Single-button double hole Both passages are released by one button For adjusting two cord ends simultaneously
Bridge or directional model Cord and button direction vary by construction Installed orientation must be tested on the finished product

Top-Push and Side-Bridge Models

On a top-push metal cord lock, the movable button is positioned on the upper section of the body. Pressing it aligns the passages, allowing the cord to be repositioned before the button is released.

On a side-bridge model, an additional bridge or loop changes the cord route and installed orientation. Check how the cord enters the body and whether the operating button remains easy to reach.

Button operation should be evaluated with the actual cord installed. A mechanism that is too stiff may be difficult to use, while a mechanism that is too light may not provide the required holding performance.

How Does a Metal Cord Lock Hold the Cord?

On a spring-loaded metal cord lock, the cord passes through openings in the body and moving button. When the button is released, the openings move away from full alignment and the cord is pressed between internal surfaces.

Holding performance depends on:

  • Actual cord thickness relative to the passage
  • Normal and compressed cord diameter
  • Cord surface friction
  • Soft, filled, rigid or elastic cord construction
  • Spring pressure and button travel
  • Round or rectangular internal passage geometry
  • Direction and level of the applied pulling force

How to Measure Cord Compatibility

The millimetre or inch value stated in a product title refers to the nominal internal passage. Cords carrying the same nominal diameter may behave differently because of braid density, filling and surface construction.

Measurement Why It Matters How to Check It
Outside round-cord diameter Determines whether the cord can pass through the channel. Measure several points with a caliper without flattening the cord.
Lightly compressed diameter Shows how much a soft cord narrows under spring pressure. Record it together with the normal measurement.
Flat-drawstring width Must correspond with the horizontal passage dimension. Measure the widest section.
Flat-drawstring thickness Affects passage height and complete button closure. Include folded or joined sections.
Cord surface A very smooth cord may slip after locking. Complete a pull test in the actual operating direction.
Cord rigidity A rigid cord may prevent complete mechanism closure. Confirm free button movement with the cord installed.

Verified Cord-Entry Sizes

The following passages are shown in the live category filters. Imperial values are approximate reference conversions. Use the individual product page for final approval.

Cord Entry General Selection Area Compatibility Check
3 mm / 0.12 in Fine cords and compact accessories Confirm that the cord does not slip after locking.
3.5 mm / 0.14 in Fine to medium-fine round cords Check braid density and compressed diameter.
4 mm / 0.16 in Hoods, garments and small-bag drawstrings Check surface construction and complete mechanism closure.
4.5 mm / 0.18 in Standard garment, bag and footwear cords Check friction after locking.
5 mm / 0.20 in Medium-weight cords and laces Confirm free movement before locking.
5.5 mm / 0.22 in Filled or more substantial cords Confirm that cord rigidity does not overload the spring.
6 mm / 0.24 in Thick cords and compatible round elastic Test button movement and actual holding performance.
6 × 3 mm / 0.24 × 0.12 in and 6 × 3.5 mm / 0.24 × 0.14 in Fine flat or oval-profile drawstrings Measure width and thickness separately.
7 × 3 mm / 0.28 × 0.12 in Flat drawstrings and semicircular body models Confirm that the drawstring does not rotate inside the passage.
8 × 4 mm / 0.31 × 0.16 in and 8 × 4.5 mm / 0.31 × 0.18 in Wider flat drawstrings Check free movement and secure locking.
10 × 3.5 mm / 0.39 × 0.14 in Wide but relatively thin flat drawstrings Consider both width and thickness.

This table is a general selection guide and does not guarantee compatibility. Manufacturing tolerance, braid, filling, surface finish and compressibility can change the result.

Metal Cord-Lock Body Shapes

Body Shape General Feature Selection Note
Mini or small model Compact body for limited spaces and smaller accessories Confirm that the button remains easy to operate.
Flat model May create less projection from the product surface. Check installed direction and fabric-contact area.
Ball or round model Rounded and visible decorative body Do not confuse outside diameter with cord-entry diameter.
Mine-shaped model Rounded or elongated model-specific body Check whether the product uses one or two passages.
Semicircular or crescent model Directional form that may be suitable for flat cords Verify whether the passage is round or rectangular.
Cube model Angular and modern outside appearance Test edges and surfaces against delicate textiles.
Looped or bridge model Additional routing or attachment section Select according to the required cord route and loop function.

Finish and Surface Options

Depending on the model, metal cord locks may be offered in nickel, black nickel, gold, antique brass, gunmetal or black oxide, copper, tin oxide, glossy paint, matte paint and soft-touch finishes.

Not every finish is available for every model or order quantity. The cord-lock finish may be coordinated with eyelets, cord ends, zipper hardware, buckles and other metal trims.

The finish name does not identify the base metal or prove corrosion resistance. Nickel, gold, antique brass and gunmetal normally describe surface appearance.

A zinc-alloy cord lock must not be assumed to be stainless steel, saltwater resistant or suitable for continuous wet exposure.

Metal and Plastic Cord Locks Compared

Feature Metal Cord Lock Plastic Cord Lock
Main body Zinc alloy Plastic, acetal or another polymer stated on the product page
Weight May create a heavier and more visible hardware detail. Adds less weight to lightweight fabrics and hoods.
Appearance Plated, painted and decorative metal surfaces may be available. Coloured, transparent and model-specific plastic surfaces may be available.
Primary selection reason Metal appearance and coordination with other hardware Low weight, colour matching and everyday operation
Delicate-fabric check Weight, edges and metal-surface contact should be tested. Mould lines, edges and body contact should be checked.

For lower-weight alternatives, review the plastic cord locks category.

Metal Cord Locks and Cord Ends Are Different Components

Feature Metal Cord Lock Cord End / Drawstring Tip
Main function Adjusts cord length or gathering. Finishes the cut end of a cord.
Position Moves along the cord. Remains at the terminal section.
Adjustment Can be released and repositioned. Normally remains fixed after fitting.
Combined use A metal cord lock may provide adjustment while cord ends finish the terminal sections.

Real-World Applications

  • Hoodie, coat and jacket adjustment cords
  • Tracksuit, shorts and sportswear waist drawstrings
  • Bag, backpack, pouch and drawstring-sack closures
  • Shoe, boot and trainer laces
  • Adjustment cords on hats, headwear and neck warmers
  • Compatible camping-bag and outdoor-textile cords
  • Curtain, cover and home-textile gathering systems
  • Compatible round-elastic adjustment systems

Not every metal cord lock is suitable for every application. Final selection must be based on the verified passage, body dimensions, hole arrangement, finish and pack information on the individual product page.

How Is a Metal Cord Lock Installed?

  1. Measure the normal and lightly compressed cord dimensions.
  2. Check whether the model has one or two passages.
  3. Press the operating button to align the body and button openings.
  4. Thread the cord through the correct passage and direction.
  5. On a double-hole model, place the two ends in separate passages.
  6. Release the button so that the mechanism engages the cord.
  7. Pull in the actual operating direction to test slipping.
  8. Fit any terminal cord ends after completing the cord-lock installation.

Standard push-button metal cord locks are normally installed by hand and do not require a press or setting die for threading onto the cord. A separate tool may be required for a terminal cord end.

Incorrect Selection and Use Warnings

  • A cord that is too narrow may slip after locking.
  • A cord that is too thick may not pass through or may prevent complete button closure.
  • Measure both width and thickness when using a flat drawstring.
  • Check the compressed diameter of soft and filled cords.
  • A very smooth cord may slip despite having a suitable nominal size.
  • Single- or double-hole construction does not determine holding strength by itself.
  • A heavy metal body may pull or distort lightweight fabric.
  • Test angular body shapes against delicate fabric surfaces.
  • A fitted cord end may not pass through the cord-lock channel or eyelet.
  • Finish appearance does not prove stainless or outdoor suitability.
  • Small-part and detachment risks must be assessed separately for children’s products.
  • Complete a sample test with the actual cord and finished product before wholesale ordering or mass production.

Related Categories

Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Cord Locks

What is a metal cord lock and what does it do?

A metal cord lock is a push-button adjuster used to control cord length or gathering and help retain the cord at the selected position.

What material are the metal cord locks made from?

The verified main body material throughout this category is zinc alloy, also known as zamak. The surface finish is a separate specification.

How do I select the correct metal cord-lock size?

Measure the outside and lightly compressed diameter of round cord. For flat drawstrings, measure width and thickness separately and compare them with the verified passage.

Is matching the nominal cord and opening size sufficient?

No. Braid density, filler hardness, surface friction and compressibility can change passage and holding performance.

What is the difference between single-hole and double-hole metal cord locks?

A single-hole model has one shared passage. A double-hole model keeps two cord ends in separate passages. The number of holes does not determine holding strength by itself.

Why does the metal cord lock fail to hold the cord?

The cord may be too narrow, too smooth or too rigid for the selected mechanism. Spring pressure and passage geometry also affect compatibility.

Does a metal cord lock require a press or setting die?

Standard push-button metal cord locks are normally installed by hand. Press the button to align the passage and thread the cord through it. A separate tool may be required for a terminal cord end.

Can a metal cord lock be used with round elastic?

It may be used when the passage and mechanism are compatible. Because elastic changes diameter under compression and tension, test it with the actual material.

Should the metal cord lock or cord end be installed first?

If the completed cord end is larger than the lock passage, thread the metal cord lock first and fit the cord end after completing the cord route.

Are metal cord locks stainless?

Not all metal cord locks are stainless. The products in this category use zinc-alloy bodies. Verify the finish and intended conditions of use on the individual product page.

Does the finish colour identify the base metal?

No. Nickel, gold, antique brass and gunmetal normally describe the surface appearance. The base-body material must be checked separately.

Is sample testing required before wholesale production?

Yes. A sample confirms cord passage, holding performance, button movement, component weight, finish and appearance on the finished product.

Last updated: 21 July 2026

Business and brand: E-Düğme – Istanbul, Türkiye

Technical verification note: Refer to the individual product page for exact metric and imperial passage dimensions, outside body size, hole arrangement, finish, pack quantity and mechanism structure.

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