Easy Friendship Bracelet Tutorial: The Twisting Method

Updated at: 03/02/2025

Friendship bracelets are a timeless symbol of connection and shared experiences, a delightful craft that's both fun and rewarding. For years, these colorful threads have woven together bonds between friends, creating tangible representations of friendship. While many techniques exist, the twisting method offers a surprisingly simple and accessible entry point for beginners, allowing you to create beautiful bracelets with minimal materials and effort. This method, perfect for all ages, avoids the complexities of knotting and provides a satisfyingly quick way to make personalized gifts or accessories.

Ready to start creating your own stunning friendship bracelets? This easy-to-follow tutorial will guide you through each step of the twisting method, from preparing your threads to finishing off your beautifully crafted bracelet. Let's dive into the simple steps and learn how to make these charming keepsakes.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Colorful cords (at least 4)
  • Scissors
  • Clipboard or similar to hold cords
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise young children when making friendship bracelets. Small beads and string pose a choking hazard.
  • Be mindful of sharp objects like scissors. Cut away from yourself and keep scissors closed when not in use.
  • If using strong dyes or paints, ensure proper ventilation and wear gloves to protect your skin.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cords

    • Choose your colors and cut the cords (50-60cm depending on wrist size).
    • Make a small knot at the top to secure the cords.
    • Clip the knotted end to a clipboard or other stable surface.
    Clip the knotted end to a clipboard or other stable surface.Clip the knotted end to a clipboard or other stable surface.Clip the knotted end to a clipboard or other stable surface.
    Prepare the Cords

  2. Twist the Cords

    • Twist the cords tightly together to the same side, working from top to bottom.
    • Pull gently on the cords as you twist to prevent tangling.
    Pull gently on the cords as you twist to prevent tangling.Pull gently on the cords as you twist to prevent tangling.
    Twist the Cords

  3. Join the Ends

    • Once you reach the bottom, pull the cords tightly, find the center, and fold them together.
    • Give the folded cords a slight twist in the opposite direction and release to join them.
    Give the folded cords a slight twist in the opposite direction and release to join them.Give the folded cords a slight twist in the opposite direction and release to join them.
    Join the Ends

  4. Secure and Finish

    • Unclip the cords, make a knot at the top to secure.
    • To close, untwist the folded edge, opening it up. Place the knotted end inside.
    To close, untwist the folded edge, opening it up. Place the knotted end inside.To close, untwist the folded edge, opening it up. Place the knotted end inside.
    Secure and Finish

Read more: DIY Crystal Bracelet: Easy Square Knot Tutorial

Tips

  • If the cords start twisting together in the middle, that's a good sign – it means it's working!
  • Maintain tension while twisting to prevent the cords from twisting too much.
  • You can have someone hold the clipboard for you while you twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Tension

Reason: Pulling too tightly on one strand while leaving others loose creates an uneven bracelet that looks messy and may break easily.
Solution: Maintain consistent, gentle tension on all strands throughout the braiding process.

2. Incorrect Twisting

Reason: Twisting the wrong strands together or failing to follow the pattern accurately will result in a tangled, incorrect design.
Solution: Carefully follow the chosen pattern and double-check your work after each step.

FAQs

How many strands of embroidery floss do I need?
You'll typically need 6 strands of embroidery floss for a standard friendship bracelet using the twisting method. You can use more or less depending on the desired width and thickness of your bracelet.
What happens if I twist the strands too tightly?
Twisting too tightly can make your bracelet difficult to work with and may lead to it being too stiff or inflexible. Aim for a consistent, gentle twist that allows the strands to move easily.
How do I finish the bracelet and tie it off?
Once you've completed your pattern, simply tie a secure knot at the end of your strands. Trim the excess floss close to the knot and consider adding a small piece of tape to secure the ends if desired. You can also braid the ends together before tying for a neater finish.