Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Easy Friendship Bracelets

My daughter had to make what seemed like a million friendship bracelets to sell on market day at school. They had to be quick and easy because we only had a few days notice. So we used the twist method, added a bead and voila!

Here is how you can make your own.
(click on any image to see a larger version)

Supplies:

Scissors
Craft or embroidery thread in various colors
Super Glue
A large eye needle
Medium sized beads with a large hole (one for each bracelet)
A ruler

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Thread

Cut a 26 inch length of 3 to 5 colors of thread. We made a medium child's size bracelet you should adjust this length if you want to make the bracelet larger or smaller.

Step 2: Tie a Knot

Tie all the strands together with a square knot at one end. Leave a 3 to 4 inch tail to make it easier to thread the bead later.

Step 3: Twist

Have someone hold the knotted end while you twist the threads together.

If you are doing it by yourself you can pin the knotted end to your pants, a beading board, or even hold it with your toe.

Keep twisting until it is tight.

Step 4: Fold and Tie

Place your finger in the center of the thread and fold it in half.

Pull the sides straight and remove your finger. The two sides of the bracelet will twist together.

Tie the unknotted end to the knotted end. Make sure your bracelet doesn't untwist while you are doing this. You may need someone to help you. Make sure the knot is tight.

Step 5: Add the Bead

You should now have two sets of tails at the knotted end of the bracelet. Take one set and thread it through the eye of the needle.

Slip the bead on the needle and over the threads. If you can't get the bead over an entire set of threads do as many as you can and let the extra hang down with the other set.

Remove the needle and tie the two sets of tails together securing the bead. You may want to double knot it.

Put a dab of super glue on the knot to keep it from coming undone. When the glue is dry trim the ends.



All Finished


Your bracelet is done! To wear it simply slip the bead through the twist at the opposite end.

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