Easy DIY Cute Ankle Bracelets: Braided String Charm Bracelet Tutorial

Updated at: 11/05/2025

Ankle bracelets are a delightful and subtle way to add a touch of personality and summery flair to your outfit. They're also incredibly fun and easy to make yourself! Forget expensive jewelry stores – with just a few simple supplies and a little bit of patience, you can create adorable, customized ankle bracelets that perfectly reflect your style. This charming braided string charm bracelet is the perfect project for beginners, requiring minimal skill and offering maximum creative freedom. You can experiment with different colors of string, add your favorite charms, and personalize your design to match any mood or outfit.

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide to crafting your own unique and stylish braided string ankle bracelet. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a complete novice, follow along as we explore this simple and rewarding DIY project, from choosing your materials to securing the final knot. Get ready to unleash your inner artisan and create a beautiful accessory that you’ll treasure for years to come!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Scissors
  • Nylon thread (various colors)
  • Charms (shells, pineapples, etc.)
  • Tape or clipboard
  • Lighter or glue
Safety Guidelines
  • Avoid tying the bracelet too tightly. It should be comfortable to wear and not restrict blood flow.
  • Always supervise children when they are making or wearing the bracelet to prevent choking hazards from small charms or loose strings.
  • If you have sensitive skin, test a small area with the string and charm materials before making the full bracelet to check for any allergic reactions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Strings

    • Cut three 50cm strings of thread. You can adjust the length depending on your ankle size.
    • Tie the three strings together in a knot. Secure the strings using tape or a clipboard.
    Tie the three strings together in a knot. Secure the strings using tape or a clipboard.Tie the three strings together in a knot. Secure the strings using tape or a clipboard.
    Prepare the Strings

  2. Braid the Strings

    • Braid the three strings until completely braided.
    Braid the three strings until completely braided.
    Braid the Strings

  3. Secure the Braid

    • Tie a knot at the end of the braid and remove from the clipboard or tape.
    • Trim the ends of the braid, ensuring they are even.
    Trim the ends of the braid, ensuring they are even.Trim the ends of the braid, ensuring they are even.
    Secure the Braid

  4. Attach the Charm

    • Push the braid through the charm, creating a loop, and pull the remaining braid through the loop to secure the charm.
    Push the braid through the charm, creating a loop, and pull the remaining braid through the loop to secure the charm.
    Attach the Charm

  5. Create the Sliding Knot

    • Cut 10cm of thread to create a sliding knot.
    • Make a normal knot to keep the bracelet in place. Then make several macrame knots (explained in the video) on both sides of the charm.
    • Finish with a normal knot and pull tight. Repeat for extra security.
    • Trim the ends of the knot and use a lighter to melt the ends to secure them (or use glue).
    Trim the ends of the knot and use a lighter to melt the ends to secure them (or use glue).Trim the ends of the knot and use a lighter to melt the ends to secure them (or use glue).Trim the ends of the knot and use a lighter to melt the ends to secure them (or use glue).Trim the ends of the knot and use a lighter to melt the ends to secure them (or use glue).
    Create the Sliding Knot

Read more: Summer Bunting Anklet: Easy Beaded Anklet Tutorial

Tips

  • Using a clipboard instead of tape makes it easier to work with the strings.
  • Be careful when using a lighter to melt the thread ends – avoid burning yourself. Glue is an alternative.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Braiding

Reason: Inconsistent tension while braiding leads to a lopsided or bumpy bracelet.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension on all strings throughout the braiding process.

2. Knots Too Tight or Too Loose

Reason: Knots that are too tight can make the bracelet difficult to adjust or wear; knots that are too loose will easily come undone.
Solution: Practice tying secure, but not overly tight, knots using a consistent technique.

3. Charm Placement Issues

Reason: Poorly placed charms can make the bracelet look unbalanced or clumsy.
Solution: Plan charm placement beforehand and secure them firmly to avoid shifting.

FAQs

What kind of string is best for making these bracelets?
Embroidery floss, waxed cotton cord, or even thin leather cord work well. Choose a type that's durable and feels comfortable against your skin.
How do I prevent the bracelet from fraying?
Use a lighter to gently melt and seal the ends of the string after you've tied the knot. This prevents unraveling and keeps your bracelet looking neat.