How to Make a Hemp Key Chain

Hemp has been in use for many centuries, it was originally used in rope, clothing and to make jewelry. Hemp is a natural fiber and it's a good way to go green. This hemp key chain project is easy and fun to make.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1mm hemp cord
• Key chain ring
• 4 small beads & 1 large bead
• Scissors
• Knotting Board
• T-pins(to hold hemp cord to the knotting board)

1. 
    
   Supplies

   When starting a project, have all the materials at hand, as for example, scissors, beads (glass, wooden, plastic) key chain ring and knotting board. In that way you won't have to be running back and forth to find these supplies. Next, measure the hemp and cut two pieces at 28". A good tip for working with hemp is, use a hot glue gun to place a drop of glue at the ends of the hemp cords to keep them from flaking.

2. 
    
   Overhand knot& keychain

   The first step is to fold the knotting cords in half and position the key chain ring at the fold, next tie an overhand knot leaving a loop.

3. 
    
   Square knot

   Next, you will need to tie a square knot; this is a tricky knot to tie sometimes, but dont despair. This paticular knot will be used throughout this project. If it's a little difficult for you at first, the word is practice. Remember "practice makes perfect". I have found books and internet sites, that were very helpful to me. Two good web sites are www.hempwork.com and www.hemp-guide.com.

4. 
    
   tie 3 square knots add bead

   Look at the diagram and follow the instructions, tie 3 square knots and one overhand knot. Repeat this step, 2 more times. Before you tie the last overhand knot add a medium size bead to the 2 center cords, once the bead is securely in place, proceed to tie an overhand knot. This is the next to last step.

5. 
    
   Tie the ends

   You will have 4 strands of cord left, leave 1" tail on each, proceed to attach small beads to the ends and tie off with an overhand knot. This is the last step for this project. Next, check the key chain for any loose treads or other material. When you have finished, place the key chain in a gift box for someone special.

Tips & Warnings

• The first project is never perfect
• Practice
• Try other hemp jewelry or patterns
• Practice Overhand knot and Square knot

[yourmamasaidwha]

on 2/3/2009 sweet! i love hemp made items! what a great piece/share!

[sneedc]

on 12/30/2008 Hemp is awesome, and it stretches. My friend made an anklet for my CANKLE, and I loved it til I wore it out.

[2besure]

on 12/22/2008 I remember making key chains when I was a kid, but you know the plastic we used to make them are still sitting in the dump somewhere. The use of hemp is a great idea.

[TeryLynne]

on 12/20/2008 I've always wanted to learn this. Thanks. 5*

[Beckybugg]

on 12/19/2008 Really cool and useful idea!