Quick answer

Use heat shrink PVC tubes to restore frayed cord ends quickly and neatly. For a more permanent, decorative finish, pair them with metal cord ends.

When to choose heat shrink tubes vs. metal cord ends

Heat shrink tubes are ideal for a quick, low-profile repair on hoodies, sweatpants, or backpack drawstrings. They seal the frayed tip and prevent further damage without adding bulk. However, they are clear and purely functional—if you want a decorative or color-coordinated finish, metal cord ends in finishes like silver or antique brass offer a more polished look.

Metal cord ends require a clean, trimmed cord end and a secure crimp. They are more durable for high-use items like jackets or bags. The trade-off is that they add a small weight and may not suit every project. For a purely functional repair that stays invisible, heat shrink tubes are the simpler choice.

How to repair cord ends with heat shrink tubes

  1. Step 1: Trim the frayed end: Use sharp scissors to cut the cord end cleanly, removing all loose fibers. A straight cut works best—avoid angling the cut, as it can cause uneven shrinking. A jagged or angled cut may prevent the tube from sealing evenly.
  2. Step 2: Slide the heat shrink tube onto the cord: Push the tube about 1 cm past the trimmed end. Ensure the tube is centered over the frayed area, not just the tip. If the cord is thicker than 5 mm, the tube will not fit properly—measure first. Check that the tube slides on easily; if it resists, the cord diameter is too large.
  3. Step 3: Apply heat evenly: Use a heat gun or hair dryer on medium heat. Hold the nozzle 2–3 inches away and rotate the cord slowly until the tube shrinks tightly around the cord. Do not use a lighter or open flame—it can melt the PVC or burn the fabric. Stop heating as soon as the tube conforms to the cord; overheating can make the PVC brittle.
  4. Step 4: Let it cool and test: Allow the tube to cool for 10–15 seconds. Gently pull on the cord end to confirm it is secure. If the tube slides or feels loose, repeat the heating step or trim the cord shorter and try a new tube. A secure repair should not slip. If it does, the tube diameter may be too large.

Products for cord end repair

  • Heat Shrink PVC Tubes | Cord End Repair | Pack of 2: Pack of 2 clear PVC tubes with 5 mm inside diameter, designed to restore worn drawstrings. The 5 mm diameter fits most standard hoodie and sweatpant cords, and the clear finish keeps the repair nearly invisible.

    Heat Shrink PVC Tubes | Cord End Repair | Pack of 2

    Heat Shrink PVC Tubes | Cord End Repair | Pack of 2

  • Metal Cord Ends | 5 mm | Pack of 2: Pack of 2 metal cord ends that fit 5 mm cords, available in five finishes including silver and gold. Metal ends provide a secure, decorative finish that resists wear better than plastic for high-use items like bags and jackets.

    Metal Cord Ends | 5 mm | Pack of 2

    Metal Cord Ends | 5 mm | Pack of 2