How to Braid 5 Strings

Learn how to make braided jewelry with five strings.

You don't need to limit braiding to just three strings or strands. To make a thicker braid, you can group together five strings or cords. This method of braiding gives you more color options when making braided string jewelry or friendship bracelets, since you can incorporate two more strings into the design. The technique is simple and you can use a household item to make it easier.

Things You'll Need

• Ruler
• String
• Scissors
• Clipboard

Instructions

Use a Clipboard

1. Measure and cut five strings to the same length and group them together so that the ends line up. Tie them together at one end with an overhand knot.

2. Anchor the tied end down in a clipboard to make it easier to work with and divide the strings up into two sections--a group of three on one side and a group of two on the other with a narrow upside-down "V" shape between them.

3. Take the furthest string in the group of the three, the one on the outside, cross it over at the top of the group place it on the inside of the group of two so that the group of two becomes a group of three.

4. Cross the string on the outside of the group of three (that used to be the group of two) over the top and place it on the inside of the group of two (that used to be a group of three), to make it a group of three once again. Continue alternating sides using this technique until you reach the ends of the string.

References

• String Page: A Few Medieval Braids

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish