Ask the Experts Cording Q&A

Help! I'm trying to find cording that will knot well, is sturdy and visually appealing (like macramé) as much as the beads. I am making a Shekere, which is a percussion type instrument made from gourds. I will also need to know what size beads will fit with the diameter of the cord you recommend. Thank you so much!

- Roberta

Shekeres are generally made with 1mm or smaller nylon twine, but can also be made with colored nylon cord, polyester cord or colored hemp. Cotton can stretch over time, so it is generally not recommended.

Plastic and metal beads such as pony beads work well and make soft sounds, and the holes in these beads are generally at least 1mm in diameter. Glass beads make a brighter, louder sound but break easily, so are not generally recommended.