The shoelaces on the runner’s sneakers. The cords on the jogger’s hoodie. The ribbons on the gift package for her. The lanyards you wear that stand out from the rest…All these have one thing in common, that is, the thin, linear fabrics on them. What we commonly call as “shoelaces”. Have you ever had a deep thought on the mysteries behind this tiny string? Why not join us on this tour of knowledge?

Generally speaking, we categorize braidings into three groups:

1. Cords & Shoelaces
2. Stab Stiches
3. Grosgrain Tapes & Ribbons

“Cords & Shoelaces”, as the name implies, normally appears as the accessories to shoes and clothing. In terms of braiding techniques, this form of textile strings is composed in a winding fashion. That is, the pattern on shoelaces may look like a series of “X” crosses. The texture and structure of shoelaces also seem fluffier than that of stab stiches or grosgrain tapes. Cords & Shoelaces can be considered the prototype to braiding technologies.

“Stab Stitches” and “Grosgrain Tapes & Ribbons” are linear strings mostly used in making lanyards and medal belts. These two types of knitted fabrics are softer and flatter on the surface than that of shoelaces. This makes them better options when we want to print our own Logos or slogans on the piece of fabric.

The way stab stiches are made is by twisting different griege yarns together, just like how we knit a scarf or sweater. The holes between the yarns are more visible than other types of braiding, thus resulting in higher level of transmittance.

Grosgrain tapes and ribbons, on the other hand, are more intricate in pattern. One can hardly see through the knitted fabric as the yarns are tightly fixed into one piece. Hence, this type of braiding is the most tenacious one among the three.

Now, you must know a great deal more about shoelaces and other types of braiding. Why not take a look around and see if you can tell what’s that string over there?

Read in Japanese:

• 織紐の遺伝コード