Alexei Volkov
The small plastic caps at the end of shoelaces are called aglets. They are important for keeping laces from fraying and making them easier to thread through eyelets. If your shoelaces have frayed, you can replace the aglets instead of tossing them. This can be done by cutting off the frayed part of the shoelace, inserting the shoelace into a replacement aglet, and heating the aglet until it fits snugly around the lace. You can also use glue to attach the aglet, but it is important to let it dry completely before use.
How to replace plastic on shoe laces
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Aglet material | Metal, plastic, or rubber |
| Aglet style | Metallic, gold, silver, bronze, or colourful plastic |
| Tools | Heat gun, lighter, or hairdryer; glue; Exacto knife; sewing machine; tape |
| Steps | Cut off frayed part of shoelace; insert lace into tubing; heat tubing until it fits snugly; allow to dry; cut lace end cleanly; glue inside aglet; press and allow to dry |
| Cost | $5-10 |
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What You'll Learn
Cutting off the frayed part of the shoelace
If your shoelaces are frayed, there are several ways to fix them. One simple method is to cut off the frayed part of the shoelace. This can be done by cutting off the frayed end of the lace, ensuring that you remove as little as possible while still providing a solid structure for the replacement plastic. This step is important as it creates a clean edge for the new plastic tubing to be inserted. It is also important to ensure that the fresh end of the shoelace is clean and dry before proceeding with the repair.
After cutting off the frayed part, you can apply a small amount of Fray Check, a clear liquid adhesive designed to prevent fraying, to the end of the lace and let it dry. This adhesive dries clear and flexible, preserving the shoelace's flexibility. Alternatively, you can use a clear nail polish or strong glue (such as fabric glue or superglue) to coat the cut end of the shoelace. This method not only stops fraying but also reinforces the tip, making it sturdy and durable. If you use an adhesive, be sure to shape and smooth the end of the shoelace with your fingers or a small tool before it dries to create a smooth, rounded tip that will make threading through shoelace eyelets easier.
For a more decorative touch, you can try braiding the ends of your shoelaces after cutting off the frayed section. Divide the lace into two or three strands and create a simple braid, securing the end with a small knot or a dab of superglue. This method adds a distinctive touch to your footwear while also solving the issue of fraying.
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Using shrink tubing and heat
Fixing your shoelaces with shrink tubing and heat is a simple and inexpensive process. Before you begin, ensure you have the right materials to hand. You can purchase heat shrink tubing online or from a local hobby, craft, or hardware store. You will also need a heat source, such as a heat gun, candle, lighter, or match.
First, cut off the frayed part of the shoelace, removing as little as possible while still giving the end a solid structure to insert into the tubing. Clean up any remaining frayed threads or torn pieces. If your shoelace still has its old aglet, it may be easier to slide the tubing over the top of it. For extra security, you can spread super glue inside the tubing or dip the end of the lace in glue before inserting it. You could also slip a tiny piece of wire or rigid plastic inside the tubing with the lace for added strength.
Next, slide the tubing over the shoelace until it is about halfway down. Cut the leftover tube where it meets the lace. Check the overall length against an intact lace tip or trim it to your desired length, usually around 15 to 20mm (or 1/2 to 3/4 inch).
Now you are ready to apply heat to the tubing. Hold a heat gun about 3 to 6 inches from the tube and move it back and forth until the tubing has shrunk. You can also use a candle, lighter, or match, taking care not to hold the lace in the open flame for too long. Rotate the lace regularly to ensure the tubing shrinks evenly on all sides.
Once the tubing has cooled, you can trim the tip flush if needed. And that's it! You've just rehabbed your old laces, giving them a new lease of life.
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Using glue
If the plastic tip of your shoelace, known as an aglet, has broken off and the lace has frayed, you can repair it using super glue or Krazy Glue®. First, cut off the frayed tip of the lace with sharp scissors or an X-Acto knife, ensuring the cut is straight. If you are reusing old laces, clean the ends to remove any dirt or residue that may prevent the glue from adhering properly.
Apply a small amount of glue to the tip of the shoelace. You can also use glue to secure a new aglet in place. If you are using a pre-made aglet, it may come with a mounting screw. Hold the screw against the end of the shoelace, then slide the aglet onto the screw. If you are not using a screw, pinch the end of the lace so it is compressed enough to fit inside the aglet, then slide the aglet down until it is flush with the end of the shoelace.
If your shoelace still has its old aglet, you can use glue to secure a shrink tube over the top. Spread some super glue inside the shrink tube, then slide it over the old aglet. You can also slip pieces of stiff wire between the tube and the shoelace to make the aglet stronger. If you don't have a shrink tube, you can wrap a small piece of thread around the glued tip of the shoelace, then coat it in toothpaste to seal everything together.
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Using dental floss and a lighter
To replace the plastic on your shoelaces using dental floss and a lighter, follow these steps:
First, cut off the frayed part of the shoelace. Be careful to remove only as much as necessary, leaving enough of the solid structure to insert into the clear shrink tubing. You can find heat shrink tubing at home centres or online. An Amazon set with six sizes, two of which are suitable for shoelaces, costs less than $10.
Next, wrap the end of the shoelace tightly with dental floss. You can also use thread, preferably cotton, as it soaks up glue better and provides a stronger grip. Secure the thread by dabbing a small amount of craft glue onto the frayed end. Then, wrap the thread tightly around the tip of the shoelace, moving from the intact section towards the frayed end. The tighter you wind the thread, the thinner the end will be.
Once the end of the shoelace is wrapped in thread and secured with glue, it's time to apply heat. Hold a lighter below the wrapped section and carefully wave it back and forth while slowly twisting the lace. Be careful not to hold the lace in the open flame for too long, as you only want to melt the very end of the lace.
After heating, allow the lace to cool completely before handling it further. If you're unhappy with the results, you can easily start over by slicing through the new plastic tip with a craft knife and trying again.
By following these steps, you can quickly and inexpensively repair your frayed shoelaces using dental floss, thread, glue, and a lighter.
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Using scotch tape
If the plastic aglet on your shoelace is damaged, you can use scotch tape to repair it. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:
First, remove the old aglet if it is loose or broken. If it is still attached and you want to avoid damaging your work surface, place a cutting pad underneath. Then, carefully use an Exacto knife to cut the aglet open and remove it.
Next, measure about one inch of scotch tape, with the width of the tape being similar to that of the previous aglet. Place the tape underneath the shoelace end, ensuring that the sticky side is facing up. Now, roll the shoelace end forward, allowing the tape to wrap around it until the end is fully covered. You can also try burning the tips of the shoelace with a lighter first, allowing them to melt and harden, before applying the tape.
Scorch tape tends to stick well to the fibres of shoelaces, so your new makeshift aglet should remain intact for a long period. However, if it comes undone, simply repeat the process.
Additionally, you can use other types of tape such as duct tape, clear packing tape, or any tape you have available. If you are using duct tape, ensure that it is plastic duct tape, as this type is more durable.
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Frequently asked questions
The plastic caps at the end of shoelaces are called aglets.
Aglets are important for both the function and aesthetics of your shoes. They stop laces from fraying, keeping them neat, and making it easier to thread them through eyelets.
You can choose from a variety of materials for your replacement aglets, including metal, plastic, or rubber.
First, cut off the frayed part of the shoelace. Insert the shoelace into the replacement aglet and heat it with a hairdryer or lighter until it fits snugly. Allow it to cool completely before handling the plastic.
