How to Braid Twisted Nylon Rope
Twisted nylon rope, also known as nylon 3-strand, is a type of strong, flexible cord that is used for boat ropes by the marine industry and as safety ropes in some adventure sports. Twisted nylon rope can be braided using the same technique that is used to braid hair. Braiding twisted nylon rope increases its strength and durability. It also creates a pretty interwoven pattern that can be used to handcraft unique pieces of jewelry.
Instructions
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Use a tape measure to get three equal-sized lengths of rope. Cut the twisted nylon rope into three equal-length pieces. Allow extra length for your rope because the braiding process will cause it to shorten.
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A pile of books or a paperweight can also be used to temporarily hold the rope. Line up each of the three sections of rope so that they all start at the same place. Grip the tops of the three pieces of rope between your knees or ask a friend to hold them while you are braiding.
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The tighter you pull the rope, the thinner the braid will be. Separate the three strands so that one sits to the right, one sits to the left and one stays in the middle. Pick up the twisted nylon rope that is on the left-hand side and lift it over the middle rope. Pick up the twisted nylon rope that is on the right-hand side and lift it over the middle rope, so that it now sits between the two other ropes. Ensure that you pull each piece of rope with the same amount of pressure while you are braiding. Continue this process until the desired amount of twisted nylon rope has been braided.
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Tips & Warnings
A double knot or a few drops of superglue can be used to seal the start and end of the braid and prevent it from unraveling.
Experiment with different colors and sizes of nylon rope to create different-looking braids.
References
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images Jupiterimages /Polka Dot/Getty Images Phil Ashley/Lifesize/Getty Images
