Pre-Made Loops are very expensive! They are the best answer for people who are impatient, or who don't have the time or ability to tie their own loops. I on the other hand have forced myself to learn how to tie a loop, and I haven't regretted it in the slightest! Usually I sit down for about an hour (when needed) and tie 10-15 loops, which lasts me a while.
I've been promoting the Silk Worm Invisible Elastic Thread ever since I bought a spool of it almost a year ago. GREAT stuff!!!
The black can be stripped down into either 3 or 4 thinner strands (can't remember how many now, as it's been a while since I've made my own loops in black)
The clear one is the most invisible available, but it also reflects light the easiest (ie: you have to be more picky and careful about your performing invironment)
The new opaque one is rediculous!!! It's got all the benefits of being as invisible as the clear, yet it's much less reflective....think of it as being the new and improved solution to loops. I swear by them, and don't use anything else.
One spool goes for under $20, and you can make HUNDREDS, if not THOUSANDS of loops from it. I have made a good 40 or so loops from my black and clear spools, and it looks as though they are still brand new!
Great stuff!