How to implement MySQL SET concept with over 64 members?

How to implement MySQL SET concept with over 64 members?

What is the best way to replicate the behaviour of a MySQL SET col type,
with over 64 members?
I need to do what I would naturally do with a MySQL SET with around 85
different options. (The limit is 64.) What would be the best way to
implement this?
I've looked at this question, which suggests a JOIN, but my members are
only 6-char strings, is the most efficient way really to create an entire
new, 1-column table of these members (I'll call it table 2), and then a
third table of 2 cols linking an id from table 1 (where I would have
created my SET column) and table 2?