FireLine thread is a relatively new material with the consistency of a heavy thread, and the strength of a coated cable wire, like soft flex. It comes in either smoke grey or what they call crystal (really translucent white) in colors. It comes in .006"diameter (similar to Size B Nymo) and .008" diameter (similar to Size D Nymo or C-Lon) and .009" diameter (similar to size F Nymo).

This super strong, flexible, prewaxed, braided bead thread incorporates new age technology. Beadworkers and beadstringers will find that this new product feels and works better than the finest bead thread yet is as strong as jewelry wire. Most beads, including Austrian crystal tapers and gemstone chip beads,  will not cut this product. It does not stretch, it knots easily, and will thread onto a #10 or #12 beading needle.

These products get their strength from the integrity of the nylon sheathing which prevents the twisted threads from unraveling.   As soon as that integrity is compromised, the twisted threads will fray and break very easily.    You can compromise this integrity by piercing the existing thread with your needle while weaving, or when the nylon sheathing comes into contact with a substance that will dissolve it, such as perfume oils and some body chemicals found in some people's sweat.  You don't have to wax these, but waxing will protect the nylon sheathing from the adverse affects from perfume oils, cosmetics and body chemistry. 

The shape of FireLine cable thread is round, and because of this, does not easily fit into the eye of a beading needle, which is shaped for the ribbon-like beading thread.    So you have to flatten the ends, either between your finger nails or a pliers.    Do not pull through your teeth to flatten; FireLine can cut into your teeth.

NOTE:  (9/2014, from our distributor)   In recent weeks, we have received several inquiries regarding BeadSmith® branded FireLine®. There are apparently some misconceptions and misinformation which are being circulated through via word-of-mouth and social media which we would like to address. We believe these rumors began as a result of a defective, improperly fused batch of FireLine® Crystal that was manufactured over 18 months ago. Most of the rolls from this batch have been either refunded or replaced.

One of the most important points to address is that FireLine® is not biodegradable. FireLine®has always been made with Dyneema® which is considered to be the world’s strongest fiber. Dyneema® is a primary component in items such as: personal armor (vests, shields, and helmets); cut-resistant gloves; and sails & riggings.

The following are some of the questions that have been posed to us along with our responses:

Is FireLine® still braided?
The FireLine® manufacturing process has not changed. FireLine® is braided and then fused to make it thin and strong with a smooth finish.

Does BeadSmith® make or own its own version of FireLine®? 
No, BeadSmith® distributes the original FireLine® that is manufactured for the fishing industry. The formula and manufacturing process has not changed

Does the EPA have biodegradable standards for fishing line?
No, according to The manufacturer of FireLine® there are no EPA standards that they are aware of.

Is BeadSmith® FireLine® the same as the FireLine® that I can find in the fishing department?
Yes and no. There are multiple varieties of FireLine® sold in the fishing industry. We only sell the original FireLine® which is braided and fused.