Weaving strings creates a strong, thin cord for jewelers or other crafts. Learning to braid some cords is also a great way to test out new types of braids, before braiding hair, cords or ribbons.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Braid with Three Ropes
Step 1. Purchase spools of string
If you want the braid to be a single color, cut three pieces of the same string. If you want a multicolored braid, cut three pieces of different colored cords.
Make sure you cut the string the exact same length each time. A length of 30 cm is a good starting point for weaving ropes
Step 2. Gather the ends of the strings
Pull them so they are flat.
Step 3. Tie a knot 2 centimeters from one end
Cut a 7 cm piece of ribbon and then secure the knotted end to the table.
Press the tape firmly to the surface of the table, so it will stay put while you pull the strings
Step 4. Separate the three pieces of string on the table
Pick up the right string with your right thumb and index finger. Pick up the left string with your left thumb and forefinger.
Step 5. Pick up the third and middle string with your right middle finger
As you weave, you will pass the middle string between the middle fingers of the left and right hands.
Step 6. Turn the right string towards the center, over the middle string
The wrist will turn counterclockwise.
Step 7. Grab the new middle string with your left middle finger
Twist the left string onto the center string. The wrist will rotate clockwise.
Step 8. Repeat this movement, changing the right string and the left string with the middle string until you reach the end of the strings
Step 9. Turn tightly so the weave is solid
With practice, you will learn to control the tension of the braid.
Step 10. Knot the end
Method 2 of 3: Four-String Braid (Flat)
Step 1. Line up four equal pieces of string
Tie a knot 5 centimeters from one end and then pin it to the table.
Step 2. Separate the four pieces of string
Step 3. Grab the outer pieces of string between your thumb and forefinger on either side
Step 4. Grab the inner string pieces with your middle fingers on either side
Step 5. Turn the left outer string into the left inner string
These will change places.
Step 6. Take the right outer string and place it between the left outer string and the left inner string
Step 7. Continue weaving the left outer string onto the left inner string
Then, twist the right outer string between the two left strings.
Step 8. Continue until you reach the end of the braid
This braid should be flat.
Step 9. Knot the end
Method 3 of 3: Eight-String Braid
Step 1. Cut eight equal pieces of string
Arrange them so that the ends are joined.
Step 2. Secure the eight separate pieces of string to your table
This braid will also be flat.
Step 3. Separate the strings into four pieces on the left and four on the right
One will be the right group and one will be the left group. Maintain some distance between these two groups as you weave.
Step 4. Start by weaving each string manually to figure out the pattern
Once you understand this, you can try to grab a string with four fingers on each hand.
Step 5. Twist the left outer string
Bring it to the next string, under the next string and over the last string of the left group. Place it next to the inner portion of the right string group.
The right group should now have five strings and the left group should have three
Step 6. Take the right outer string
Bring it under, over, under and then over. It should now be inside the left string group.
Step 7. Repeat, bringing the left string up, down and up until it meets the right group
Then, bring the right outer string under, over, under and over until it meets the left group.
Step 8. Knot the end
All done!
Advice
- To make a string necklace or bracelet, thread glass, metal, or plastic beads into the braid as you weave. They will get trapped in the braid.
- There are many types of braids to try once you learn how to braid strings. Research other types of braids to boost your repertoire.
