How to Make an Eight-Strand Ladder Braid

A ladder braid is a type of braid which can be made with four, six or eight strands and is often used to make borders around woven rugs. It is unique in that the middle strand never changes position and can therefore act as a drawstring to shorten the braid or shape it around corners. Ladder braids are visually impressive and highly decorative; they are easy to make with a bit of practice.

Things You'll Need

• Eight strands of the material to be woven

Instructions

1. Attach the eight strands you will be working with to a pole, table or other firm object so you can weave comfortably. Arrange them in the desired order; the fourth strand counting from the left is the one that will never change position.

2. Take the right-most strand and weave it from right to left over one strand, under one strand, over one strand and under one strand.

3. Take the left-most strand and weave it from left to right under one strand, over one strand, under one strand and over one strand. Repeat the process, working alternatively from the right and from the left, until you have woven a braid of the desired length. Secure the end of the braid with a knot.

References

• Rugmaker's Homestead: Make a Six Strand Ladder Braid