UNIVERSAL CORDAGE

Cordage (17) which may be used for any of the commonly marketed lengths of retractile cords comprises an array of a plurality of conductors (11-11) each insulated with a suitable plastic material. The array of conductors is enclosed in inner and outer jackets (52, 54). The inner jacket comprises a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic material, for example, and has a thickness of about 0.4 mm inch. Covering the inner jacket is an outer jacket comprising a polyvinyl chloride plastic material having a thickness of about 0.13 mm inch and having a colorant constituent. The PVC composition of the inner layer is such that it is a less expensive composition than that of the outer layer. Enclosing the outer jacket is a layer (56) which comprises a top coating material. The top coating material provides the cordage with enhanced retractibility and prevents discoloration as well as plasticizer migration from the outer jacket.