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I use 1mm fabric covered elastic stretch cord! I used to use 1mm clear elastic stretch but once I used fabric covered at someone else's place I discovered it was easier for me! (it's easier to see and also hold, even if my fingertips are sweating a bit)

@ded_AxiEE: that works rly well too

elastic jewelry cord from either michael’s or Joanns is what I use personally

stretch cord or durable elastic

The best string I've ever used always has no brand, is clear, about 3 feet long, and comes packed in tiny bead kits in a twist tie. This is because God thinks he's funny. My string of choice is that 1mm rainbow cloth-covered stuff from Amazon, but I keep clear string around for things like tying toys to cuffs so it doesn't show. Some fancy beads have very small holes that require a thinner string. Stuff like charms and keychains often looks better in clear string or black plastic string. The trick to using it seems to be keeping the string taut and tying a good square knot at the finish with a hard YANK. (Square knots are easy to learn and super useful for all beading, especially if you have to add cord to a project.) Some people recommend melting the knot of plastic string with a lighter to seal it, but I haven't tried this because THERE IS FIRE. (I'm not afraid of fire, but I drop stuff a lot.)