What Are Aglets? Complete Guide to Cord Ends and Metal Tips

Every time you thread a drawstring through a hoodie or tie your shoes, you interact with one of the smallest yet most important textile accessories: the aglet. These tiny metal or plastic pieces at the end of cords serve both a practical and aesthetic purpose.

What Exactly Is an Aglet?

An aglet (from the French word "aiguillette" meaning small needle) is a small sheath attached to the end of a cord, lace, or drawstring. Its primary function is to prevent the cord from fraying and to make it easier to thread through eyelets, grommets, or fabric channels.

Types of Cord Ends and Metal Tips

Classic Brass Aglets

Traditional brass aglets are the most widely used type. They are resistant to corrosion and provide a clean, professional finish. Special molds exist for different cord diameters, ensuring a perfect fit every time.

Alloyed Edged Cord Ends

Edged cord ends feature a distinctive design with defined edges that add a premium look. Made from zamak alloy, they are available with custom plating options and are popular in high-end fashion and sportswear.

Alloyed Cylinder Cord Ends

Cylinder-shaped cord ends offer a sleek, modern look. They wrap around the cord evenly, providing both protection against unraveling and an elegant appearance that works well with contemporary designs.

Alloyed Pear Shaped Cord Ends

Pear-shaped cord ends add a distinctive silhouette to drawstrings. Their wider bottom and tapered top create visual interest while serving the functional purpose of weight and cord management.

Alloyed Round Cord Ends

Round cord ends provide a classic, finished look. Their symmetrical shape works well with any garment style, from casual hoodies to premium outerwear.

Metal Tips

Metal tips go beyond cord ends - they are also used on pocket edges of trousers, on the edges of jackets and shirts, and to add visual interest to lace ends. Special molds allow for various shapes and sizes.

Material and Finish Options

Cord ends and aglets are available in multiple materials and finishes:

• Brass - Corrosion-resistant, classic appearance
• Zamak Alloy - Allows for intricate designs, cost-effective
• Colored Finishes - Custom color matching for brand-specific solutions

Popular plating options include nickel, gold, antique brass, black nickel, and matte finishes.

Applications Beyond Fashion

While most people associate aglets with clothing, they have numerous applications including camping and outdoor equipment, military gear, medical devices, industrial lacing, and custom packaging.

Choosing the Right Aglet

When selecting aglets for your product, consider the cord diameter, the garment style and target market, the finish that matches your other hardware, and the quantity needed for production runs. Ata Buttons offers the full range of aglets and cord ends with custom plating and branding options.

Aglet Types Comparison

Browse our full aglet and cord end collection with 10 different styles. For decorative applications, see our detailed cord ends guide.