Scoubidou is a type of plastic cord which is utilized in the knotwork craft of the same name. Also known as scoobies, gimps, or gymps, scoubidous have been utilized in crafts since the 1950s, when a collective mania for knotting crafts swept many nations around the world. This craft is commonly practiced by children, although adults may engage in it as well, and the basic equipment is available through craft stores and specialty suppliers. The cord is large and bulky enough that people with decreased fine motor skills can often enjoy scoubidou, although their projects may not turn out perfectly, and this craft can be used as a physical therapy technique to help people develop better skills for fine tasks.

Originally, scoubidou was done with flat strips of brightly colored plastic, but the modern craft usually involves hollow rounded pieces of plastic. The plastic is highly elastic and very sturdy, allowing people to knot and mold it in a variety of ways, and the resulting crafts are usually very sturdy unless they are poorly knotted, in which case the scoubidou strands can start to unravel.

A number of things including keychains, decorative pieces, flip flops, and friendship bracelets can be made with scoubidous. Crafters usually use several different strands of plastic, interlocking and knotting them to create a rich pattern of colors and shapes, and a variety of knots can be used to create various special effects. Some companies also make different scoubidou finishes, providing glitter and glow in the dark scoubidous for crafters who feel like getting more adventurous with their projects.

Learning how to make scoubidou is very easy. There are a number of books and websites which provide basic instructions so that people can learn the different knots involved and experiment with different patterns and craft ideas. Community and craft centers also sometimes offer classes for people who would like a chance to learn from an instructor, with these classes usually being tailored to children who are interested in crafts. Once people learn the basics, they can start inventing their own knots and designs to create unique projects.

In addition to the plastic lacing, scoubidou crafting can also include beading and other decorative elements. Craft stores sometimes sell starter kits which include a basic assortment of crafting supplies and a booklet which provides a basic overview of the techniques. Such kits can be ordered through online retailers who provide craft supplies, and it is also possible to order in bulk from these retailers and to make custom orders for particular colors or finishes.