Cord Ends, Drawstring Tips and Cord Locks

Which Products Are Included in This Category?

This category combines two component groups that work at different points on a cord. Cord ends and drawstring tips are fitted at the cut end of the cord. Cord locks and drawstring stoppers are positioned along the cord and function as adjustable mechanisms.

These components are not direct alternatives. A hood, waistband, drawstring bag or footwear cord may use one cord lock together with two cord ends as part of the same assembly.

What Is the Difference Between a Cord End and a Cord Lock?

Main Product Groups

Cord Ends and Drawstring Tips

Cord ends and drawstring tips are used to finish the cut end of a drawstring, lace, rope or compatible elastic. Depending on the model, they may reduce fraying, cover a knot, create a grip area or provide a decorative terminal detail.

This group is divided into two main material categories:

• Metal cord ends: Models made from zinc alloy, brass, sheet metal, iron or another metal specified on the individual product page.
• Plastic cord ends: Lightweight interlocking, clamp-on, capped, bell-shaped or pear-shaped models.

Cord Locks and Drawstring Stoppers

Cord locks and drawstring stoppers are adjustable components with a push-button, spring-loaded or model-specific locking mechanism.

• Metal cord locks: Mainly zinc-alloy models offered with different finishes, hole arrangements and body shapes.
• Plastic cord locks: Plastic or acetal models available in different colours, single-hole or double-hole configurations and body shapes.

Which Component Should Be Selected?

Cord-End Fitting Methods

Not every cord end is installed in the same way. Confirm the required fitting method before selecting a product.

Cord-End Shapes Available in the Category

• Clamp-on and crimp-on cord ends
• Open-edge and closed-edge metal end caps
• Sew-on cord-end models
• Adhesive-fitted metal cord ends
• Interlocking plastic cord ends
• Capped plastic drawstring tips
• Cube, cylinder, bead, bell and pear-shaped models
• Patterned, plain, flat and elongated forms

A model name may describe only the outside shape. Always check the cord entry and fitting method separately.

Cord-Lock Structures Available in the Category

• Single-hole cord locks
• Double-hole cord locks
• Top-push spring-loaded models
• Side-bridge or side-operated models
• Flat, elongated and compact bodies
• Square, round, crescent and mine-shaped models
• Round and rectangular cord entries
• Metal, plastic and acetal bodies

How to Check Cord Size and Compatibility

The cord-entry measurement is the nominal opening through which the cord passes. It does not guarantee compatibility with every cord of the same stated diameter. Two cords may have the same outside measurement but differ in braid density, filler hardness, surface friction and compressibility.

Typical cord entries in this product group include round openings from approximately 2.5 mm / 0.10 in to 9.2 mm / 0.36 in, together with model-specific flat or rectangular entries such as 8 × 3 mm / 0.31 × 0.12 in and 10.5 × 3 mm / 0.41 × 0.12 in. The exact verified measurement on the individual product page must always be used.

Metal vs Plastic Components

A metallic appearance or plated finish does not mean that a component is made from stainless steel. Check the verified base material, finish and intended usage conditions on each product page.

Real-World Applications

• Hoodie and jacket drawstrings
• Tracksuit, shorts, trouser and waistband cords
• Bag, backpack, pouch and drawstring-sack cords
• Shoe, boot and trainer laces
• Adjustment cords on hats, headwear and neck warmers
• Sportswear and everyday garment accessories
• Craft, jewellery and decorative cord applications
• Adjustment systems using compatible round elastic

Not every component is suitable for every application. Make the final selection according to the verified dimensions, material and fitting instructions on the individual product page.

Incorrect Selection and Assembly Warnings

• A cord end and a cord lock do not perform the same function. Select a cord end to finish the cord and a cord lock to adjust it.
• An opening that is too small may prevent insertion or damage the cord surface.
• An opening that is too large may prevent the cord end from gripping or the cord lock from holding securely.
• Measure both width and thickness when working with flat cords.
• Measure soft and elastic cords in both their normal and lightly compressed states.
• Determine whether the cord end will be crimped, bonded, sewn, passed through or retained by a knot before ordering.
• A finished cord end may not pass through the cord lock; the lock often needs to be installed first.
• Excessive crimping pressure may flatten the cord or deform the metal component.
• Finish colour alone does not verify the base material or corrosion resistance.
• Complete a sample installation with the actual cord before mass production or wholesale ordering.

Compatible and Complementary Categories

• Cord ends and drawstring tips
• Cord locks and drawstring stoppers
• Metal cord ends
• Plastic cord ends
• Metal cord locks
• Plastic cord locks

Frequently Asked Questions About Cord Ends and Cord Locks

Are cord ends and cord locks the same product?

No. A cord end is a fixed component used to finish the end of a drawstring. A cord lock moves along the cord and helps adjust its working length or gathering.

Can a cord end and cord lock be used together?

Yes. A hoodie, waistband, bag or footwear cord may use a cord lock as the adjustment mechanism and cord ends as finishing components at both ends.

How do I choose the correct cord-end size?

Measure the outside cord diameter or, for a flat cord, both the width and thickness. Compare these measurements with the product entry and fitting method.

How do I choose the correct cord-lock size?

Measure both the normal and lightly compressed cord diameter. The cord should pass through the channel but should not slip freely after the locking mechanism is released.

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

A single-hole model has one shared passage. A double-hole model keeps two cord ends in separate channels. Select according to the cord route on the finished product.

How is a metal cord end fitted?

The method depends on the model. Metal cord ends may be crimped, bonded, sewn, passed through or retained with a knot. Follow the verified fitting information on the individual product page.

How is a plastic cord end fitted?

Some plastic models use interlocking inner and outer sections, while others retain a knot or use a capped structure. Not every plastic cord end uses the same fitting system.

Should the cord lock or cord end be installed first?

If the finished cord end is larger than the cord-lock passage, thread the lock onto the cord first and fit the cord end afterwards.

Are all metal components stainless?

No. The category includes zinc alloy, brass, sheet metal, iron and different plated finishes. Verify the exact base material on the individual product page.

Why is sample testing necessary?

Cords with the same nominal size may differ in hardness, braid, filling and surface friction. A sample test confirms entry fit, cord-lock grip, cord-end fitting and appearance on the finished product.

Last updated: 21 July 2026

Business and brand: E-Düğme – Istanbul, Türkiye

Technical verification note: Refer to the verified individual product page for exact dimensions, base material, surface finish, pack quantity and fitting method.