If you've ever admired the intricate, looping embellishments on a piece of handmade jewelry or the elegant trim along a couture garment, chances are you were looking at soutache braid. At House of Soutache™, we've made it our mission to bring this timeless craft material to makers everywhere — and today, we're breaking down everything you need to know.

What Is Soutache Braid?

Soutache (pronounced soo-TASH) is a narrow, flat, decorative braid with a distinctive herringbone weave and a center groove that runs along its length. That groove is what makes it so special — it allows thread to pass through the center, making it easy to stitch, shape, and layer into intricate designs.

Originally used in military uniforms and high fashion in the 19th century, soutache has made a major comeback in the world of handmade jewelry, embroidery, and textile arts.

What Is Soutache Made Of?

Soutache cord comes in several materials, but rayon soutache is the most popular choice among crafters for good reason. Rayon has a beautiful natural sheen that catches the light, making finished pieces look polished and professional. It's also soft, flexible, and easy to work with — perfect for beginners and experienced makers alike.

At House of Soutache™, all of our cords are ⅛ inch rayon soutache braid, available in a wide range of colors — from classic White and Black to vibrant Fuchsia, Emerald, and Turquoise. Whether you're working on a subtle, neutral piece or a bold statement design, there's a color for every vision.

What Can You Make With Soutache Braid?

The versatility of soutache is one of the reasons crafters love it so much. Here are just a few of the most popular uses:

• Soutache jewelry — earrings, pendants, bracelets, and brooches featuring layered, sculpted braid designs
• Embroidery embellishment — adding texture and dimension to fabric, clothing, and accessories
• Costume and fashion trim — edging on jackets, bags, hats, and uniforms
• Home décor accents — decorative trim on pillows, curtains, and upholstery

How Do You Work With Soutache Cord?

Working with soutache is easier than it looks. The basic technique involves stitching through the center groove of the braid with a needle and thread, layering multiple cords together, and shaping them into curves and loops around beads or cabochons. The result is a richly textured, three-dimensional design that looks incredibly intricate but is very achievable with practice.

The key is starting with quality cord. Cheap or stiff braid is difficult to shape and won't hold curves cleanly. Our rayon soutache is specifically chosen for its flexibility and consistent width, so your stitches stay even and your designs come out beautifully every time.

How Much Soutache Do You Need?

For most jewelry projects, a few yards per color is enough to get started. That's why we sell our soutache cord by the yard — so you can try multiple colors without committing to a full spool. If you're a frequent maker or a professional designer, our 144-yard wholesale spools offer the best value and ensure you never run out mid-project.

Ready to Start Your Soutache Journey?

Whether you're picking up a needle for the first time or you're a seasoned maker looking for a reliable source of premium cord, House of Soutache™ has everything you need. Browse our full collection of rayon soutache braid in over 25 colors — available by the yard or by the spool.

Your next masterpiece starts here.