Disclaimer: Devoted Grandma is reader-supported. If you purchase anything through my site, I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you). It helps keep the site alive, so thank you.
You wear your love for your grandchild on your sleeve, so why not also wear it on your wrist? No, I am not talking about having your grandchildren’s names tattooed on your arm, but rather crafting a one-of-a-kind friendship bracelet with your grand(s)!
Originating from Central and South America, friendship bracelets were initially crafted by the indigenous peoples as a gesture of goodwill and unity. Fast forward a few centuries, and these charming trinkets have become a global symbol of friendship, transcending borders and cultures. All of this said, is there a better way to spend an afternoon with your grandchild than by crafting and creating this fun piece?
Are you ready to get started? Here is what you need (aside from your grandchild, of course :P)!
Supplies for making a friendship bracelet
Here’s a handy list of supplies you’ll need to create your very own friendship bracelet with your grandchild(ren):
- Embroidery floss or craft thread – various colors
- Scissors
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Clipboard, safety pin, or masking tape (to secure the bracelet while working on it)
- A pattern or design (optional but helpful for beginners)
- A small bead or charm (optional, for added flair)
- A lighter (optional, for sealing the ends of the thread to prevent fraying)
How to make a custom friendship bracelet
- Choose your colors: Pick out 2-4 colors of embroidery floss or craft thread to create your bracelet.
- Measure and cut: Cut each color into a 60-inch (150 cm) length. The extra length helps ensure you have enough thread to complete your bracelet.
- Gather and knot: Gather all the threads together, making sure their ends are aligned. Tie a knot about 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the top, leaving a loop for closure.
- Secure the bracelet: Attach the loop end to a clipboard, pin it to a cushion, or use masking tape to secure it to a flat surface. This will hold your bracelet in place while you work on it.
- Organize the threads: Separate and lay out the threads in your desired color order, keeping them parallel.
- Start the forward knot: Take the first thread on the left (Thread A) and create a “4” shape by placing it over the second thread (Thread B). Then, pull Thread A under Thread B and through the loop created by the “4” shape. Pull it tight to form a knot. Repeat this step once more to create a double knot.
- Continue knotting: Using Thread A, repeat the forward knot on each of the remaining threads, working from left to right.
- Move to the next color: After completing the row of knots with Thread A, pick up the new leftmost thread (Thread B) and repeat steps 6-7 to create a second row of knots.
- Keep going: Continue this process, always starting with the leftmost thread and working your way across the other threads. As you progress, you’ll notice the pattern of diagonal stripes forming.
- Finish the bracelet: Once the bracelet has reached your desired length, tie all the threads together in a knot close to the last row of knots.
- Create a closure: Separate the threads into two equal groups and braid each group for about 1 inch (2.5 cm). Tie a knot at the end of each braid to secure it.
- Trim and wear: Cut off any excess thread, leaving a small tail at the end of each braid. To wear the bracelet, thread the braided ends through the loop created in step 3, and tie them in a knot around your wrist.
Friendship bracelet supplies and kits
Girls Crafts Friendship Bracelet String Making Kit
In my opinion, this kit is the easiest and most foolproof way to create custom friendship bracelets, as it not only includes the standard supplies but also a small loom and guide that makes the bracelets easier to make!
Quefe 3960pcs Pony Beads for Bracelet Making Kit 48 Colors Kandi Beads Set
If you and your grandchild are looking for ways to make your bracelets stand out even more, I highly recommend incorporating beads and other fun adornments into your design! With this set, you will receive a whopping 2,400 rainbow beads in 48 colors, 1,560 letter beads, and 48 elastic bands.
Klutz Friendship Bracelets Craft Kit
If you are like me and require visuals and in-depth instruction before trying something new, this is the resource for you!
I hope this project brings you and your grands as much joy and entertainment as it has for my family! There is no better way to bond than by crafting together, no matter your grandchildren’s ages. Let me know how it goes – I can’t wait to see your creations!
