How to Make a Number Eight Bracelet Pattern

Updated at: 31/03/2025

Number eight bracelets, with their elegant, infinity-symbol design, are a popular and surprisingly simple craft project. These charming bracelets make wonderful gifts or a fun way to personalize your own style, and the best part? They require minimal materials and can be customized with an array of colors and beads to perfectly match your aesthetic. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, the satisfying process of knotting and shaping this classic design is sure to appeal. The intricate appearance belies a surprisingly simple technique, making it perfect for all skill levels.

This guide will walk you through the process of making a beautiful number eight bracelet, step by step. Get ready to learn the basic knotting technique and explore creative variations to personalize your very own unique piece of jewelry! We'll cover everything from choosing your materials to finishing touches, ensuring you create a stunning bracelet you'll be proud to wear or gift.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • embroidery floss (five colors)
  • scissors
  • tape
  • washi tape (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise young children when they are working with small beads or cords to prevent choking hazards.
  • Use sharp scissors carefully to avoid cuts. Keep them away from children.
  • If using strong adhesives, ensure adequate ventilation and follow the manufacturer's safety instructions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Materials

    • Cut five colors of embroidery floss to wingspan length. Fold each string in half and tie a knot at the top.
    Prepare your strings: Cut five colors of embroidery floss to wingspan length. Fold each string in half and tie a knot at the top.
    Prepare Materials

  2. Organize Strings

    • Arrange the strings so you have one of each color on either side. Use a bracelet book variation (linked in the description) to determine your string order.
    Organize your strings: Arrange the strings so you have one of each color on either side. Use a bracelet book variation (linked in the description) to determine your string order.
    Organize Strings

  3. Create Center Knot

    • Make one forward knot in the center using the two white strings.
    Start with the center: Make one forward knot in the center using the two white strings.
    Create Center Knot

  4. Center and Side Knots

    • Follow the pattern in the bracelet book variation, alternating between forward and backward knots. Make sure each knot is done twice.
    Continue with the center and sides: Follow the pattern in the bracelet book variation, alternating between forward and backward knots. Make sure each knot is done twice.
    Center and Side Knots

  5. Create Outer Triangles (Side 1)

    • Create small triangles on each side by using forward and backward knots.
    Create the outer triangles: Create small triangles on each side by using forward and backward knots.
    Create Outer Triangles (Side 1)

  6. Complete Center Rows

    • Work your way from the center outward using backward knots with the blue strings, then forward knots with the white strings, followed by the pink strings.
    Complete the center rows: Work your way from the center outward using backward knots with the blue strings, then forward knots with the white strings, followed by the pink strings.
    Complete Center Rows

  7. Edge Knots

    • On the edges, use forward-backward or backward-forward knots to create a clean finish.
    Edge knots: On the edges, use forward-backward or backward-forward knots to create a clean finish.
    Edge Knots

  8. Create Outer Triangles (Side 2)

    • Repeat step 5 on the opposite side, creating symmetrical triangles.
    Complete the bracelet edges: Repeat step 5 on the opposite side, creating symmetrical triangles.
    Create Outer Triangles (Side 2)

  9. Center Diamond Squares

    • Create small diamond shapes in the center using alternating forward and backward knots.
    Center diamond squares: Create small diamond shapes in the center using alternating forward and backward knots.
    Center Diamond Squares

  10. Chevron Pattern

    • Create chevron patterns using forward and backward knots with the pink and white strings.
    Chevron pattern: Create chevron patterns using forward and backward knots with the pink and white strings.
    Chevron Pattern

  11. Final Touches

    • Complete the final center section with white strings. Finish by tying a knot at the bottom and create your desired ties.
    Final center section and finishing: Complete the final center section with white strings. Finish by tying a knot at the bottom and create your desired ties.
    Final Touches

Read more: DIY Crystal Bracelet: Easy Square Knot Tutorial

Tips

  • Use a bracelet book variation to easily plan your color order and knot sequence.
  • Remember to do each knot twice for better durability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent Tension

Reason: Uneven tension while wrapping the threads creates a lopsided or uneven number eight pattern.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension throughout the braiding process by using a consistent wrapping pressure.

2. Incorrect Over/Under Passes

Reason: Failing to correctly alternate over and under passes of the threads leads to a tangled or distorted pattern.
Solution: Carefully follow the pattern instructions and double-check each step to ensure accurate over/under passes.

3. Loose Knots or Ends

Reason: Loose knots or unsecured thread ends can unravel the bracelet, causing it to become undone.
Solution: Securely tie all knots and use a knotting technique that minimizes the chance of unraveling.

FAQs

What kind of string or thread is best for making a number eight bracelet?
Embroidery floss is a popular choice because it's strong, comes in many colors, and is easy to work with. Waxed cord also works well for a more durable bracelet.
How do I adjust the bracelet size?
The size is determined by the length of string you start with. Measure your wrist and add a few extra inches for the knotting and closure. You can experiment with different lengths to find your ideal fit. You can also add or subtract knots to slightly adjust the length after completing the main pattern.