Cord Ends and Aglets: Functional and Decorative Metal Tips for Drawstrings

More Than Just Shoelace Tips: The World of Cord Ends

Cord ends (aglets) serve a dual purpose: they prevent cord fraying and add a decorative finishing touch. Modern fashion has transformed these small components into significant design elements, with luxury brands using custom metal tips as signature details.

Ata Buttons manufactures a complete range of aglets and cord ends in various shapes, materials, and finishes.

Types of Cord Ends

Classic Aglets

Standard aglets are cylindrical metal sheaths that crimp onto cord ends. Available in lengths from 15mm to 35mm, they are the most versatile cord end option.

Colored Aglets

Colored aglets are coated with enamel or powder coating in a wide range of colors. Perfect for matching brand colors or creating contrast details on drawstrings.

Cylinder Cord Ends

Alloyed cylinder cord ends are cast from zamak alloy, offering more weight and premium feel than stamped metal aglets. The cylindrical shape works with round and flat cords.

Pear-Shaped Cord Ends

Pear-shaped cord ends taper to a point, creating an elegant teardrop profile. Popular in luxury sportswear and high-fashion applications.

Round Cord Ends

Round (ball) cord ends feature a spherical tip that adds weight to the cord end, helping drawstrings hang properly. Common in premium hoodies and joggers.

Edged Cord Ends

Edged cord ends feature angular, geometric profiles that create a modern, architectural look. Available in several edge profiles for different aesthetic effects.

Metal Tips

Metal tips are the simplest cord end form — a small metal cap that crimps onto the cord end. Used when a minimal, barely-noticeable cord end is desired.

Spring Stoppers

While not technically cord ends, spring stoppers work alongside aglets to create adjustable drawstring systems. The spring mechanism inside locks the cord at any position, allowing the wearer to tighten or loosen hoods, waists, and hems.

Cord End Materials

Zamak (Zinc Alloy)

Cast zamak cord ends offer the widest range of shapes and the best surface detail for logo engraving. Heavier than stamped metal, they provide a premium weight and feel.

Brass

Brass cord ends resist corrosion better than zamak and accept a wider range of plating finishes. Preferred for outdoor and marine applications.

Iron/Steel

The most economical option for basic aglets. Must be plated to prevent rust. Suitable for interior applications and cost-sensitive projects.

Applications Beyond Fashion

• Outdoor gear - Tent guylines, backpack drawstrings, sleeping bag closures
• Marine - Rope ends, sail ties, dock lines
• Industrial - Safety cord ends, tool lanyards
• Craft and DIY - Jewelry making, macramé, decorative cording

Wholesale Cord Ends

Ata Buttons stocks a full range of standard and premium cord ends with fast lead times. Custom logo engraving is available on zamak models with minimum order quantities. Contact us for samples and bulk pricing.