I got this message form a former forum member that has probably forgotten more than most of us know.

Hi Danny,

A small point about your recent reply concerning stringing materials. Tigertail is actually a cable of stainless steel, coated in clear plastic. There are typically seven lines twisted together, but there may be sizes with more of fewer lines. The lines are not braided (!).

In the 1960s, braided metal lines were available, and often used by American Indians for stringing Navajo silver beads, squash-blossom necklaces, and the like. But I think this is mostly not used any longer. In the '70s they turned to Tigertail. By now, I expect they are using SoftFlex.

SoftFlex is very similar to Tigertail--being steel lines corded (twisted) together, and coated in plastic. They now make a range of products, including colored wires and gold-plated wires. SoftFlex is considered superior to Tigertail, because it is (supposedly) more flexible, and doesn't become permanently "chinked" when the necklace is bent. Since the time this was introduced into the marketplace, it has been difficult to find Tigertail.

All my best ......... Danny