Friendship bracelets surpass the
generation gap, ranging from simple patterns to sophisticated variations, and
are often exchanged as gifts. These handmade bracelets constructed of bright
colors create a wearable work of art. The bracelets usually consist of thread
and are easy to make, only requiring minimal supplies, such as beads, buttons,
charms, and scissors. In fact, the process is so easy that children as young as
7 can make simple friendships bracelets as long as they can process the ability
to cut thread and tie knots.
Bracelet Materials
There are several different types
of threads used for making simple friendship bracelets. One of the most popular
materials is embroidery floss. This cotton thread is made of six strands, and
since originally designed for cross-stitching and embroidery, it allows for
smooth knots. Not only does embroidery floss offer a lustered look to assembled
friendship bracelets, it also has limitless options for adding color to any bracelet.
Other binding materials used when
making friendship bracelets are pearl cotton, yarn, and craft and crochet
thread. Craft thread and pearl cotton are budget-friendly options they come in
packs rather than skeins. The only draw-back however, is that they tend to
break easier. Cotton knitting yarn is ideal for small hands and economical, but
produces a bulkier bracelet.
Bracelet Tools
To learn more about making a
variety of simple friendship bracelets, there are several DIY friendship
bracelet books available that provide step-by-step directions. In addition, for
those who want a quick and foolproof way to create a simple friendship
bracelet, there are specially made friendship bracelet wheels that do most of
the work for you. These wheels are available individually or in a friendship
bracelet maker kit.
Patterns and Colors
There are a variety of patterns
for simple friendship bracelets, and some of the easiest entail basic
knot-tying techniques. Consumers should educate themselves on the various
patterns, and then choose one that suits their liking. Experiment with
different color combinations, to achieve different looks. For example, a simple
friendship bracelet with a two-color striped pattern only requires two colors,
whereas a rainbow-striped pattern requires six different colors.
Steps to Making a Bracelet
First, cut three strands of the
friendship bracelet thread of the desired color, ensuring that each one is
6-inches long. Bring together the ends of each strand, folding them at the
middle, then carefully tie a knot there, making sure to leave a small loop to
fasten off the bracelet. Next, pin the knotted end to a pillow, fasten it to a
clipboard, or have another person hold the end and knot the bracelet.
Spread the strands apart, being
sure to keep them separated, working left to right. Take the first thread, the
one farthest left, and knot it around the second thread, the one farthest
right. Form the knot by looping over the second going left to right and then
underneath to exit out of the loop. Tighten each knot securely, before moving
on to the next knot on the same thread, forming a double knot.
Finishing Off
Still using the first thread,
form two knots on the third thread, repeating the same procedure until reaching
the sixth thread, the one farthest right. Now, set down the first thread at the
right side, then repeat going left to right, using the second thread forming
knots.
Reach the desired length and use
scissors, to neatly cut the excess thread, leaving some allowance for tying
around the wearer's wrist.
Click here to view Best 5 Friendship Bracelet Ideas
