How to Make Scout Lanyards

Scout lanyards are practically a tradition in Boy and Girl Scout groups. You can make a lanyard using plastic string called "gimp" or "boondoggle." One way to make a scout lanyard is by using a butterfly stitch, which is one of the easiest lanyard stitches.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Two strands of lanyard
• Scissors

1. Cut both strands of lanyard to at least 12 inches in length.

2. Tie one end of the two strands together.

3. Make a loop with the bottom strand (strand A) behind the top strand (strand B).

4. Make another loop with strand B, and push it through the loop in strand A.

5. Pull the end of strand A to tighten the first stitch. A loop of strand B should remain.

6. Make a loop with strand A, and insert it into the loop in strand B.

7. Pull strand B to tighten the second stitch.

8. Repeat steps to make additional stitches.

9. To finish the lanyard, wait until a loop from strand B remains. Thread the end of strand A through the loop (rather than a loop of strand A, as you've been doing), and pull strand B to tighten.

Tips & Warnings

• You can begin the lanyard with one strand rather than two, doubled over in the middle. Just make sure to cut it to twice the recommended length. If you'd like, hang a key, scout whistle, or other object from the lanyard, and wear it around your neck.

References

• The Butterfly Stitch