There are an almost limitless Paracord projects that you can embark on to make utility and decorative items, such as lanyards, belts, watch straps, dog leashes, bracelets and necklaces. Many projects use the same simple braiding methods. Normally you will need at least 3 pieces of Paracord, Paracord yarn or Paracord strands. Most projects will use an odd number of pieces, although notable exceptions are Paracord projects for making whips and dog leases where 4 or 6 pieces are preferred.
No specialised tools are needed to embark on a Paracord project, however you can make life easier for yourself by preparing a little in advance. It is useful to be able to firmly clamp one end of your Paracord Braiding; so a C clamp and something to clamp onto is desirable. A non-serated knife can prevent excessive fraying when cutting Paracord, although scissors are indispensable. A measuring tape, bulldog clips and elastic bands will also help in some circumstances.
A word of warning! Paracord shrinks when wet. Before you start any project pre-shrink your Paracord. This is easily done by immersing in warm water for 10 minutes. Remove and lay on a flat surface to dry naturally. It’s probably worth preparing batches , so that you don’t have to go through this process every time you want to make something.
Also, always cut more Paracord than you think you will need, it is so frustrating when you run out of cord at the final stages of your project!
Paracord Lanyard
First up, let’s start with making a simple lanyard. Not only is this a simple introduction to Paracord projects, you will end up with a useful lanyard for attaching your keys or knife to your belt. In addition it gives you an emergency length of Paracord. You never know when it might come in handy!
You will need the following:
About 13 to 14 feet of Paracord
Scissors
Lighter
Rubber band
Key clip
Measuring tape.
Step #1
Fold the Paracord into two equal lengths and mark the centre with a rubber band.
Step #2
Tie a simple overhand knot to leave a loop around 3 inches in length at one end (with the rubber band) and two lengths of Paracord at the other. Adjust the knot so that the two lengths of free Paracord are equal.
Step #3
Push the two free lengths of Paracord through the Key clip, and pull until the distance between the overhand knot and Key clip is around 5 inches.
Step #4
Using the two free ends of Paracord tie a sufficient number of Cobra knots, moving towards the overhand knot. If you have used the measurements we have suggested this will probably mean around ten to twelve knots.
Step #5
When you reach the overhand knot, tie another group of Cobra knots over your first set. This time you are moving towards the Key clip.
Step #6
When you reach the Key clip, cut both free ends to leave about ΒΌ inch protruding and seal using a lighter to prevent fraying.
If you follow these simple guidelines you have a great chance that your Paracord projects will turn out perfect every time.