How to Braid Tie Belts

Braided tie belts are a great way to accessorize an outfit. You see many types of braids in clothing stores, but you can easily create your own unique braided tie belt for a fraction of the cost of a purchased belt. If you know how to braid, you already have the technique mastered for this fashion accessory.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Tape measure
• Yarn or fabric for the belt
• Straight pins
• Scissors

1. Measure your waist. Allow at least 12 inches extra for the braid. Decide how much extra you want to allow for the tied portion of your belt. If you want six inches of extra yarn, then allow 12 inches—six inches for each end of the belt. If you are going to tie the belt in a bow, allow extra for that as well.
2. Purchase your yarn. It can be traditional yarn, or you may choose one of the many specialty yarns available. Or you may decide to make your braided belt from soft ribbon or finished fabric pieces. Be creative.
3. Cut the yarn the measurement you arrived at in Step 1. Cut six pieces of yarn this length.
4. Pin the six pieces of yarn together. Separate the strands into three two-strand bundles. You can pin the yarn to a pillow on your lap to help you keep a steady tension as you work.
5. Place a second pin where you want one end of the tie to end and the braid to begin. Braid the three bundles together. The tightness or looseness of the braid is up to you. Continue braiding until you get to the spot where you want the other end of the tie to begin.
6. Repeat Steps 3, 4 and 5 until you have three completed braids. Put those three braids together into a braid of their own.
7. Cut three lengths of fabric or ribbon if you are making your tie belt that way. Braid the three lengths together allowing room at either end for the tie.