Paracord 101:

Paracord is a lightweight nylon cord with a braided outer sheath and inner core strands. It started as parachute line and is now a go-to material for DIY crafts and outdoor projects because it’s strong for its size, easy to knot, and available in hundreds of colors. On this page you’ll find a short primer, the products we recommend for getting started, a detailed guide, and answers to common questions.

Paracord 101: What it is, popular crafts, and real‑world uses

What is paracord

Paracord is a kernmantle nylon cord: a braided outer sheath around several inner strands. The most common size is 550 cord, a versatile choice for crafts and general outdoor use.

Why makers and outdoor users like it

  • Strong for its size and weight
  • Knots and weaves cleanly
  • Hundreds of colors and patterns
  • Easy to cut and seal the ends with heat

Popular sizes and variants

  • 550 cord - go-to for bracelets and most crafts
  • Micro cord and 95 cord - thin 1 to 2 mm line for accents, beading, and detail work
  • 750 cord - slightly thicker decorative cord for belts and wide weaves
  • Reflective or Glow in the dark cord - visibility at night

Starter crafts

  • Cobra bracelet - a flat weave that teaches the basics
  • Keychain or zipper pull - small, quick, and useful
  • Dog leash - combine cord with swivel snaps and a comfortable handle
  • Handle wrap - add grip to tools, bottles, and camera rigs
  • Belt or strap - try a wide weave like King Cobra to create a sturdy belt or strap

Industries that use paracord

  • Outdoor and camping brands
  • Emergency preparedness and first aid kits
  • Film, TV, and prop departments
  • Military-style gear and tactical accessories
  • Product design, prototyping, and maker spaces
  • Education and STEM clubs for projects

Real-world uses beyond crafts

Paracord is handy for hanging tarps or bear bags, bundling items, replacing zipper pulls, lashing to hardware, and quick repairs during trips and events.

Choosing the right cord

  • Bracelets and most crafts - 550 cord
  • Fine detail - micro cord
  • Outdoor guy lines and utility - reflective 550 cord or reflective 95 cord
  • Stiff, wide weaves - 750 cord

Safety notes

Paracord is not a life-safety rope. Do not use it for climbing, towing, or lifting people. Treat the listed breaking strength as a lab number and use a conservative working load.

Care and longevity

Wash with mild soapy water, rinse grit, let it air dry, and avoid long exposure to intense sun. Nylon may stretch slightly when wet. Store in a cool, dry place.

Getting started

For your first project, grab one or two hanks of 550 cord plus a side release buckle or split rings. Follow a Cobra bracelet tutorial, then make a matching keychain.

6 products

FAQ

What is paracord made of?
Paracord is nylon with a braided outer sheath and several inner strands. That construction gives strength, flexibility, and good knotting.
What does "550" mean?
It's shorthand for a typical minimum breaking strength around 550 lb. Working loads should be much lower. Paracord is not a life-safety rope.
What types of paracord should I consider?
All-nylon options include 550 cord for general crafts, micro and 95 cord for fine detail, 750 cord for wide decorative weaves, and reflective nylon cord for visibility.
What crafts can you make with paracord?
Bracelets, keychains, lanyards, zipper pulls, dog leashes, belts, watchbands, handle wraps, and more. The Cobra weave is a common first project.
What industries use paracord?
Outdoor and camping brands, emergency prep kits, film and prop departments, tactical gear makers, product designers for prototyping, and general repair kits.
Can I use paracord for climbing or lifting?
No. Paracord is not rated for life safety, climbing, towing, or lifting people or heavy loads.
Is paracord waterproof?
Nylon can absorb a little water and may stretch slightly when wet. Let it air dry and it returns close to normal length.
What size paracord should I start with?
Start with 550 paracord for bracelets and most crafts, micro cord for fine work, and 750 cord for heavy decorative projects.
How do I stop paracord ends from fraying?
Cut the cord cleanly, then carefully melt the cut end to fuse the fibers. A hot knife makes a clean, sealed cut.