Plastic gimp is a flat or round synthetic string used in crafts, also called boondoggle, craft lace, lanyard, or scoubidou
What is gimp called?
In crafts, gimp is primarily called boondoggle, craft lace, lanyard, or scoubidou
These terms all describe the same flat or round plastic string you’d use for braiding, knotting, or weaving. Boondoggle started as a Boy Scout term for woven lanyards, while scoubidou comes from French, meaning “to doodle.” Lanyard specifically points to its use in keychains and straps. The different names? Just regional quirks and generational slang.
What are the plastic string called?
The plastic strings used in braiding crafts are commonly called gimp, gimp thread, or scoubidou
You’ll usually find them as flat plastic strips in rolls, anywhere from 1mm to 5mm wide. They come in every color imaginable and bend easily for tight knots. In the U.S., they’re often labeled “gimp thread,” while “scoubidou” dominates in Europe and Canada. Stores sell them as “craft lace” or even “paracord alternatives.”
What are Scoobies made of?
Scoobies are made of colored plastic strands, typically flat plastic lanyard material or round paracord-like plastic threads
These strands are usually polyethylene or vinyl, lightweight and tough enough for constant handling. Some high-end versions add UV-resistant plastic to keep colors from fading in sunlight. Most come pre-cut into 3–6 foot lengths—super convenient for quick projects. Their bendy nature makes them perfect for friendship bracelets, zipper pulls, and decorative keychains.
What do you call those plastic string braiding crafts?
These crafts are called lanyards, boondoggles, or scoubidous
“Lanyard” highlights the practical side—think keychains or badge holders. “Boondoggle” nods to Scout traditions of making useful things from simple materials. “Scoubidou” is the French-inspired name for the same knotting and weaving style. Each term carries its own history and cultural vibe.
Why is it called gimp string?
Gimp string is named for its origin as a decorative trim with a stiff core, from the Old French “guimpe,” meaning “headband” or “veil”
The word started describing woven trims with wire cores in upholstery and fashion, then shifted to plastic craft strings. “Gimp” stuck because of its shiny, structured look. The 1990s and 2000s crafting boom made the term mainstream. Now it’s everywhere in DIY and school projects.
What can I make with gimp?
You can make bracelets, keychains, lanyards, bookmarks, zipper pulls, and decorative straps
More ambitious projects? Try belts, bag charms, or woven wall hangings. Gimp’s great for beginners—cheap, easy to knot, and forgiving. Teachers love it for fine motor skill drills in elementary schools. Many starter kits include pre-cut strands and guides for patterns like the Chinese Staircase or Cobra weave.
Why are Subarus called Scooby?
Subarus are nicknamed “Scooby” because enthusiasts affectionately shorten the model names like WRX and STI into a catchy, playful term
The nickname fits the car’s rally spirit and its reputation as a quirky, reliable ride. “Scooby-Doo” just sounds right for a vehicle with goofy charm and off-road grit. Fans use it everywhere—in forums, on stickers, even license plates. It’s a fun twist on performance car naming.
What does Scoony mean?
In British slang, “scoony” is a humorous or affectionate term meaning “a bit” or “slightly,” often used to soften statements
Say “I’m scoony tired,” and you’re basically saying “I’m a bit worn out.” The word likely comes from Scottish or Northern English dialects. It’s super informal and rarely shows up in formal writing. Its playful tone matches nicknames like “Scooby.”
What does a Scooby mean?
A “Scooby” is a playful term for a mystery or clue, derived from the cartoon dog Scooby-Doo who solves mysteries
Drop “That’s a Scooby!” and you’re basically saying “That’s a clue!” It’s a lighthearted way to refer to anything that helps crack a problem. The term thrives in the UK and among fans of the classic cartoon. It’s one of those nostalgic phrases that’s stuck around since the 1970s.
Edited and fact-checked by the TechFactsHub editorial team.
