Founded in 1888, Samson Cordage Works has been making the finest ropes for over 125 years. Some of their first products were sash cord for double-hung windows and the trademark red spot on their sash cord assures you of the quality.
Its nylon core adds strength and reduces stretch, while its cotton exterior provides chemical, weather, and heat resistance. The result is a long lasting cord designed specifically for almost any size wood window.
My company has used this rope for our window restoration projects, both commercial and residential, for years with fantastic results.
Specifications
- Size: #8
- Diameter: 1/4 in
- Length: Available in 100 ft hanks.
- Working Load Limit: 150 lb
- Max Load: 1000 lb
- Material: Cotton
- Core Material: Nylon
- Color: White with spots
- Resistance: Chemical, Weather, Heat
- Type: Solid Braided Cord
Frequently asked questions
What is sash cord used for?
Sash cord is the rope that runs over the pulleys in a double-hung window and connects the sash to the counterweights, so each sash glides and holds its position. This is genuine Samson Spot Cord, made specifically for wood windows.
What size is this sash cord?
It is #8 size with a 1/4 inch diameter. The working load limit is 150 lb and the maximum load is 1000 lb. It is sold in 100-foot hanks.
What is the best material for a sash cord?
This cord uses a cotton exterior over a nylon core. The nylon core adds strength and reduces stretch, while the cotton exterior gives chemical, weather, and heat resistance. That holds up better than hardware-store rope that stretches and frays in a season.
Is this sash cord strong?
Yes. It carries a 150 lb working load limit and a 1000 lb maximum load. The nylon core inside the cotton braid is what gives it the strength while keeping stretch low.
Who makes Samson sash cord?
It is made by Samson Cordage Works, which has been making rope since 1888. The trademark red spot on the cord is the mark of their quality. Look for the red spot.
Re-cording a window? These guides from The Craftsman Blog cover choosing the cord, measuring it, and installing it.
Watch the tutorial
What’s the Best Window Sash Cord?
When it comes to sash cord, there are clear winners and clear losers. Scott explains what makes a good rope and names his favorites. Samson Spot Cord sits right at the top of that list.
Read the full tutorial →Related tutorials

From The Craftsman Blog
What Kind of Sash Rope Should I Use?
Cotton braided rope in a #8 size is the sweet spot for most windows, and Scott explains why. His favorite is Samson Spot Cord for its strength and feel. Read this before you re-rope.
Read the tutorial →
From The Craftsman Blog
The Easiest Way to Measure Sash Cord
Here's a clever, tape-measure-free way to get your sash cord length right the first time. Scott learned it from another window pro and it just works. Worth knowing before you cut your Samson cord.
Read the tutorial →





