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July 13's NYT Strands puzzle theme is “Completely fabricated,” featuring fabric-related words.
The spangram “Textiles” runs vertically, linking all theme words.
Words like Silk, Cotton, and Polyester complete the themed grid.
Welcome to another fresh puzzle drop for NYT Strands on July 13, 2025. Today’s edition delivers a rich pattern of clues, all stitched together under one textured theme. Puzzle Number 497 launches a new search grid loaded with fabric-inspired challenges.
For those tuned in to daily codes and clever themes, this one knits together knowledge, wordplay, and sharp visual thinking.
The clue for today stands out, Completely fabricated. That’s not a riddle in disguise; it directly points toward materials that thread through wardrobes and textiles. The theme aligns every word with types of fabric used across clothing, upholstery, and fashion essentials.
The spangram, the special word crossing the entire board vertically or horizontally, sets the stage. Today, it runs vertically. The word that captures the puzzle’s essence is Textiles. This spangram weaves the theme together and unlocks every other hidden word across the board.
Each letter in this 6x8 grid plays a role. Every twist and turn leads toward a solution. Letters connect in every direction: up, down, diagonal, and even snake-like bends. The words don’t sit still. That’s the beauty of NYT Strands.
This Sunday puzzle wraps around both natural and synthetic fibers. It doesn’t just test vocabulary; it also pulls from real-world knowledge. This includes fabric names often seen on labels and tags. Each one fits the theme and contributes to the final game pattern.
Silk
Wool
Linen
Cotton
Rayon
Spandex
Polyester
Textiles
Every word completes a piece of the grid. Each one matches the day’s concept, forming a complete set once everything clicks into place.
NYT Strands offers more than theme matching. Players gain clues by finding extra words not related to the theme. These serve as stepping stones. For every three such discoveries, the game lights up a hint word related to the theme. One letter at a time reveals until the full word glows in place.
This mechanic adds rhythm to the solution. It also keeps each round longer than a quick NYT Game like Wordle or Mini Crossword. Expect at least ten focused minutes to work it through.
Today’s grid consists of some very familiar words for the fashion-minded. The balancing of challenge is not too much but shines at times, so achievements feel all the more rewarding. The ingenious clue "Completely fabricated" gives an elegant twist to something that appeared otherwise plain enough.
NYT Strands Puzzle Number 497 stitches precision with playful word play. From Silk to Spandex, all words point to closets with lists of materials. Today's spangram, Textiles, joins them to one common theme.
The set of answers is complete, and so is the board, every letter accounted for. The next batch appears tomorrow, ready to pounce again with fresh clues and sharp turns. Until then, the threads go on rest.
