How to Braid 4 Cords

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Things You'll Need

  • 4 cords

  • Masking tape

Weaving a simple four-cord braid won't leave you in knots.

While most people learn how to make a three-strand braid, weaving a four-strand braid is not as common. There are several types of four-strand braids, including flat and round. Both are sturdier than a three-strand braid and less likely to unravel. A flat four-strand braid is similar to a three-strand braid, except that there is a small diamond pattern running down the center, produced by the fourth strand. A round four-strand braid is often called a spiral or diamond braid. Use a four-strand braid to weave a rope for utility purposes, to make a craft cord for jewelry, a ribbon for a floral bouquet, or even for your own hair.

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Flat Braid

Step 1

Line up the ends of each of the four cords; each should be 1 1/2 times as long as the desired finished braid. Tie an overhand knot near the end to secure the cords together. Tape the knot to a flat surface where you can work the braid. Omit this step if your cords are already connected at one end -- if you're braiding hair, for example.

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Step 2

Separate the four cords so they aren't tangled or overlapping. Keep track of which cord is which, 1 through 4 from left to right.

Step 3

Bring cord 1 (the left-most cord) over cord 2 (the adjacent cord), under cord 3 and over cord 4. Pull the cords to tighten them. Cord 1 is now cord 4 because it now occupies the right-most position in the four-cord series.

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Step 4

Bring the new cord 1 over cord 2, under cord 3 and over cord 4. Pull the cords to tighten them.

Step 5

Braid until your braid is the desired length. After a few repetitions, the pattern will emerge. Maintain tension on the cords at all times for a tight, even braid.

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Round Braid

Step 1

Line up the ends of each of the four cords, and tie and overhand knot near the end to secure the cords together. Tape the knot to a flat surface where you can work the braid. Omit this step if your cords are already connected at one end -- if you're braiding hair, for example.

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Step 2

Separate the four cords so they aren't tangled or overlapping. Keep track of which cord is which, 1 through 4 from left to right.

Step 3

Cross cord 2 over cord 3. You are essentially crossing the two middle cords, the first over the second. Cord 2 becomes the new cord 3 and vice versa.

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Step 4

Bring cord 1 under cords 2 and 3. Bring cord 1 around cord 3, placing it between cords 2 and 3. Cord 1 becomes the new cord 2. Pull the cords to tighten them.

Step 5

Bring cord 4 under cords 3 and 2. Bring cord 4 around cord 2, placing it between cords 2 and 3. Cord 4 becomes the new cord 3. Pull the cords to tighten them.

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Step 6

Braid until the cord reaches the desired length. After a few repetitions, the pattern will emerge. Maintain tension on the cords at all times for a tight, even braid.

Tip

Hold the cords close to the braid, not at the ends. This helps to maintain tension on the cords, producing an even braid without gaps or lumps.

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