How to Paracord Square Braid

Originally used in parachutes during World War II, paracord derives its strength from interwoven strands of nylon. Paracord is used for knots and braids of all kinds, but is especially strong and attractive when used to make a square braid or weave. Often seen woven into a lanyard, bracelet or keychain, a paracord square braid follows a simple pattern to achieve a tightly woven series of knots. Try using two different colors of paracord to braid a solid color that alternates on each side.

Things You'll Need

• 2 paracord ropes, 3 to 4 feet long
• Key ring or end attachment

Instructions

1. Place one cord vertically on your working surface so the middle of the cord is directly in front of you. Place the middle of the other cord horizontally across the middle of the vertical cord. Slide a key ring or end attachment on the vertical cord, lining it up in the middle, under the horizontal cord.

2. Move the top piece of the vertical cord down over the horizontal cord, lining it up slightly to the left of the bottom piece.

3. Move the left piece of the horizontal cord over on top of the vertical cord, lining it up slightly below the right piece.

4. Move the original bottom piece of the vertical cord, the one at the bottom of the stack and to the right, over on top of the horizontal pieces, moving it to the top.

5. Move the original right piece of the horizontal cord, the one slightly above the other, over the first vertical cord and under the second.

6. Pull all four ends tight to make a tight square knot with the ring in the middle underneath.

7. Move the top vertical piece directly down on top of itself so it is in the bottom position. Move the bottom vertical piece directly up on top of itself so it is in the top position.

8. Move the right horizontal piece over the first vertical piece and under the second so it is in the left position. Move the left horizontal piece over the first vertical piece and under the second.

9. Pull all four ends tight. Continue switching the locations of the vertical pieces and weaving the horizontal pieces over, and then under, until you reach the desired length.

10. Tie the ends into a knot, bind them to an end attachment, or melt the ends into the last square knot to keep it from coming loose.

References

• Lighthound: Square Weave Paracord Lanyard
• Cherokee/Pickens District Atlanta Area District, BSA: "Knot Master" Program