Pink Friendship Bracelet Patterns? The 127 Detailed Answer

Friendship bracelets are the classic summer camp craft you’ll want to make all year long! Whether you loved making them as a kid or are learning to make them for the first time, this easy DIY tutorial will teach you everything you need to know about making friendship bracelets.

Making friendship bracelets is a fun DIY craft project because it’s easy to learn, take with you anywhere, and easy to share with your friends. It’s definitely one of those “rites of passage” activities that we all do at sleepovers and summer camps. Also, they make great gifts for your best friends!

Once you’ve learned the basic techniques, check out these simple friendship bracelet patterns. From simple braids to fancy diamond patterns, there’s no limit to the gorgeous friendship bracelets you can create!

Gather your supplies

You don’t need much to start making fun friendship bracelets. All you need is some embroidery floss and something to hold your bracelet steady while you tie the knots. Here are popular proven consumables:

embroidery floss or twine

Clipboard, safety pin, or tape

Letter beads or charms (optional)

To make things easier on yourself, you could also buy a handy friendship bracelet set.

friendship bracelets cord

The best string for friendship bracelets is called embroidery floss. Embroidery thread is a smooth, 6-ply cotton thread with a slight sheen. It is available in a variety of colors including neon and metallic colors. Common brands of embroidery thread are DMC, Anchor and J&P Coats.

Start with the 4 basic knots

Even the most sophisticated friendship bracelets are tied with the same simple knots.

There are four basic friendship bracelet knots that you need to learn. Once you learn the correct knots, you can easily make and design your own friendship bracelets.

Each of the four knots consists of two half knots – the so-called half hitches. The four basic friendship bracelet knots use two half hitches stacked in various combinations.

Forward node: forward clutch + forward clutch

: forward clutch + forward clutch reverse node : reverse clutch + reverse clutch

: reverse clutch + reverse clutch Forward-reverse node : forward clutch + reverse clutch

: forward clutch + reverse clutch reverse-forward node: reverse clutch + forward clutch

For a full explanation of the different types of friendship bracelet knots, with lots of diagrams and pictures, be sure to read How to tie the 4 basic friendship bracelet knots.

Learn to read friendship bracelet patterns

Friendship bracelet makers have created pattern charts that you can follow to create beautiful designs. They may seem tricky at first, but once you understand how to read friendship bracelet patterns, you will definitely prefer them to written ones.

Sites like Friendship-Bracelets.net and Braceletbook.com have a seemingly endless supply of friendship bracelet patterns. Stripes, chevrons, hearts, arrows – whatever you can imagine, you can find it!

Reading friendship bracelet patterns is easier than you think! Click here to read my in-depth tutorial teaching you how to read the friendship bracelet symbols and pattern grid.

Choose colors for friendship bracelets

You can change the look of a bracelet pattern by choosing different thread colors or arranging them in a different color order. If you need inspiration for a color palette, read this article on choosing the best color combinations for your next friendship bracelet: Friendship Bracelet Color Ideas and Combinations

Friendship bracelet pattern for beginners

Here are some of the most common beginner patterns:

And when you’re done with that, here are some more easy friendship bracelet patterns.

Candy Stripe Bracelet

For this pattern, all you need to know is how to tie a forward knot.

Cut 4 strands of embroidery floss about 36″ long. Tie together with a simple overhand knot and tape to a flat surface. Or clip the end of the bracelet to a clipboard. Take the left cord (A) and tie a forward knot on the first thread, the second thread and then the last thread. The A string is now on the right side. Take the new left string (B) and tie a forward knot on each of the next three strings. Repeat the process with each new purl strand (C, D, etc.) and work your way across the bracelet. Continue until you reach your desired length. For most wrists you will need a 6 inch bracelet. Be sure to leave enough space at the two ends to tie the bracelet.

For a more detailed pattern with even more pictures go to: How to Make a Candy Stripe Friendship Bracelet

Chevron Bracelet Pattern

For this pattern, you need to know both the forward and reverse knots.

If it’s easier to visualize, you can think of the chevron pattern as two back-to-back candy stripe bracelets.

Cut 72″ lengths from each of the four colors. Fold the cords in half and tie a knot at the folded end. Start with the leftmost string and knot the next three strings forward until you reach the middle. Using the rightmost string, tie a reverse knot on the next three strings until you reach the middle. To finish the dot in the center of the chevron’s “V” shape, use the left string to tie a forward knot around the right string. Make more rows by repeating the process with the other strings.

For a more detailed pattern with more pictures and pattern chart see: How to Make a Chevron Friendship Bracelet

Diamond and X pattern

For the diamond pattern friendship bracelet, you need to know how to tie all 4 basic knots.

This bracelet starts out similar to the chevron friendship bracelet pattern.

The first row and the second row are the same as the chevron pattern. Each of the outer strings is tied towards the middle to form V-shapes. Then the pattern is flipped over to create an inverted chevron shape. This creates the X and diamond shapes.

For a more detailed pattern, included images, and a pattern chart, see: How to Make a Diamond Friendship Bracelet Pattern

How to start and end friendship bracelets

It’s perfectly fine to start and end bracelets with simple overhand knots. Tie knots at each end, leaving tails about 4 inches long.

But there are many other cool ways to start and end friendship bracelets like buckles, teardrop loops, buttons, adjustable knots and more.

If you’re wondering how to start your bracelet with a bow, be sure to read: How to Start and End Friendship Bracelets for a Finished Look

Frequently asked questions about bracelets

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about making friendship bracelets.

How long should the thread be on a friendship bracelet?

For most regular bracelet patterns, each string should be about 36 inches long. If you have two skeins of each color, you can start with a 72″ strand and fold it in half to get two halves that measure 36″.

If you have a pattern where one color is used much more often than other colors, this cord should be cut longer.

What to do when the cord runs out?

If you run out of cord in the middle of a bracelet, you can add another cord.

Tie the extension cord to the short cord with a square knot. For extra security, you can dab a dot of superglue on the knot. It’s okay if the end pieces stick out.

Continue with the pattern. Store the loose ends in the back of your work. When you’re done with your bracelet, you can use more superglue to attach it or cut it off.

Why does my bracelet have holes?

When you start making bracelets, it can be difficult to achieve the perfect tension.

If your tension is too loose, your bracelet may have holes between the knots. (On the other hand, if your tension is too tight, the knots may turn the wrong color!)

When tying knots, try to tighten the new knot right next to the previous row. In this case, practice really does make perfect.

Why is my bracelet puckering?

There are a few things that could happen. First, make sure you make TWO half hitches to tie each of the knots. If you forget to do this, the bracelet could curl up.

Or it could be that your tension is too tight. You can try loosening the knots a bit.

And it’s important to remember that certain patterns, like the Candy Stripe pattern, are more prone to frizz.

How to straighten wavy friendship bracelets?

One way to smooth friendship bracelets is to block them with water. Slightly wet your bracelet, place between paper towels and allow to dry under a heavy book.

You can also try ironing the bracelet with an iron or a hair straightener. Before attempting this, make sure the embroidery thread you are using is 100% cotton!

More bracelet making ideas

If you love making DIY jewelry, you may be interested in these related posts:

What’s next?

Pin this post: Save this tutorial to your Pinterest boards so you can come back to it later.

Leave a comment: I appreciate your feedback. Tell me in the comments below!

Share on Instagram or Facebook: If you make this project, share it on social media and tag me @sarahmaker. I love seeing what you do!

Sarah Stearns has helped thousands of makers find their next craft project with free patterns and step-by-step tutorials on her blog, sarahmaker.com. Continue reading. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Scientific American, Good Housekeeping, Vox, Apartment Therapy, Lifehacker, and more.

What is a bra strap? Here’s how to make TikTok’s latest fashion item

By Jazmin Duribe

Here’s how to make the viral bra bracelet that’s all over TikTok right now…

When it comes to fashion and beauty, TikTok is the place to discover all the popular trends that are emerging.

Remember when literally everyone wore those TikTok leggings. You know the ones that made your butt look like you went to the gym seven days a week? Or back then we all drooled over House of Sunny’s Good Vibrations dress.

Well, you’re probably wondering what TikTok’s latest obsession is: bra straps. Yes, people make bracelets out of their own bra straps, and that’s actually very clever. Here’s how to create one yourself and the meaning behind it.

READ MORE: What does soaking mean on TikTok? The viral NSFW phrase explained

How to make a bra strap bracelet?

What is a bra strap? Image: @earthbeam via TikTok

Will you receive a gold or silver charm bracelet? Boring, uninspired and outrageously expensive. But received a bra strap? Thoughtful, sustainable and sentimental. Nothing tops it.

People on TikTok shape their bra straps into elasticated bracelets adorned with charms, custom stitching, and logos. And it’s easier than you think to whip one up yourself.

1) First you need to detach the bra strap from the band that goes around your chest.

2) Cut it off above the part you would use to adjust the length of the straps.

3) Next, thread the end through the adjustable part of the bra and pull tight.

4) Use the hook to hold the strap down.

If your bra doesn’t have a hook, you can sew it to ensure it stays attached to your wrist.

What does a bra strap mean?

There is actually meaning behind the whole bra strap trend. People make them give them to their partners to show they are taken. Sometimes they even embroider their initials on the bracelet. Awww!

to the recommended book on Amazon (click here)

Kumihimo is a braiding technique used in making long decorative strands. These cords are used in a variety of decorative ways. Some people wear them as bracelets or necklaces. Others use them as functional shoelaces or just let them swing freely. Ground strands are made by repeatedly pulling the thread through your fingers. Ancient samurai warriors adorned their armor, sometimes tying it together with kumihimo cords. Kumohimo is a fun and colorful part of Japanese heritage.

The first kumihimo were made entirely by hand. These cords were strong but visually very simple. To meet the high commercial demand for unique cords, kumihimo techniques evolved to require the use of large wooden stands similar to the looms used to weave cloth. These stands sped up the process of making thick, colorful strands. Kumihimo became an integral part of traditional Japanese clothing.

Today, simple kumihimo braids are made by attaching different colored threads in different places around a specially made disc. Complex cords can be made from up to 24 different pieces of yarn. There is no right way to do kumihimo. Each cord consists of threads of different colors and thicknesses. Some look like uniform braids and others like a series of well-placed knots. Some people have turned their kumihimo hobbies into luxury fashion trades. They make their cords from silk threads and other expensive materials.

The literal meaning of the word kumihimo is “to come together.” The name fits the braids that are painstakingly tied by their makers. Themes do not randomly appear in kumihimo. Experienced weavers have learned how to wrap their pieces of thread around their tools to create the patterns they want. With experience, kumihimo enthusiasts develop braiding techniques so complex they border on technical. They swap colors and thicknesses as they craft individual cords to intentionally disrupt their carefully planned patterns.

Traditional Takadai, Framework for Making Kumihimo (by Claire Cassan cc)

Kumihimo braids are very similar to the friendship bracelets that young girls often make for each other out of embroidery floss or thick strands of rubbery plastic. The simplest loop technique consists of four or five threads looped through each other to create the appearance of slanted stripes of alternating colors. The threads can be knotted in opposite directions that meet in the middle to form a V-shape. The same alternating node process can be optimized to give intricate lattice patterns. Clear images can be embedded or embroidered into the fabric of a flat kumihimo. If the threads are pulled too taut at certain intervals, the cords can be shaped into curved shapes with sculptural edges. Few American artisans go beyond simple bow or box patterns in their handcrafted jewelry, but kumihimo is a thriving, important industry in Japan. Context transforms a trivial summer camp pastime into something that is taken very seriously in Japan.

Kumihimo discs are made of flexible plastic or hardened foam. They are usually about six inches in diameter and have up to 24 slots evenly spaced around their entire circumference. The kumihimo hangs down through a hole in the disc. The threads are released from their secure slots when used to make knots and placed in new slots when they need to be held taut. These floppy disks are great for beginners as they keep all the threads organized and separated on an even field of view. The cable is kept out of the way as it gets longer. The cords made on discs are round and have regular patterns.

Kumihimo Disk & Platte

Discs are not suitable for experienced braiders who want to make line that would be too thick to fit through the center hole in a beginner disc. A maru dai is a wooden contraption that looks like a miniature stool. A weaver can hone the skills learned from his disc on a marudai. A Maru Dai stands up on its own, freeing the weaver’s hands to create intricate patterns without worrying about whether a sheave will also stay still. It doesn’t have slots to hold the threads in place, instead relying on weighted spools to provide the necessary tension. The braider can use any number of strands in any formation, as she is not constrained by evenly spaced slits like those on a disc. A Maru Dai helps a braider transition from round cords to flat graphic ones.

The Kaku Dai is an inverted Maru Dai. The finished line is held up on a stand and the weight of the hanging spools keep everything secure. One type of loom is a karakumidai, which takes a long time to master. The braider must learn to maintain a delicate balance of tension. This tension is more important than the braiding technique when using this tool.

Starter kumihimo kits are available from several online retailers for under $20. A kit usually includes a floppy disk, a short instruction manual, and enough thread to make some string.

The tools used to create kumihimo become more complicated and difficult to use depending on the complexity of the designs the weaver wants to create. The largest looms, which require the most skill, produce kumihimo cord so thick and ornate that it resembles thin strands of woven fabric. Authentic Maru Dai stands can be a bit difficult to acquire. They are only sold by specialty retailers and cost over $100. A Maru Dai can be delivered in parts that the weaver has to assemble herself. She has to research complex braiding techniques because they would go beyond the scope of a starter set. Many kumihimo enthusiasts have uploaded videos showing how to tie basic knots on a maru dai. A creative weaver will likely enjoy inventing her own techniques.

to the recommended book on Amazon (click here)

Wondering how to read friendship bracelet pattern? It’s simpler than you think! Read on for my in-depth tutorial teaching you how to read the friendship bracelet symbols and pattern grid.

Making friendship bracelets is a simple craft that’s surprisingly fun. Once you’ve learned how to make the four basic friendship bracelet knots, there’s no limit to the beautiful patterns you can create!

There is a seemingly endless supply of friendship bracelet patterns on the internet. Stripes, chevrons, hearts, arrows – whatever you can imagine, you can find it!

Types of Friendship Bracelet Patterns

You may already know that there are a few different types of friendship bracelet patterns. Here are the two main types.

Normal patterns are the most popular pattern type. You will know your pattern is a “normal” pattern when the nodes move in a diagonal direction. The charts for normal patterns look like diagonal grids. Alpha patterns are another type of friendship bracelet pattern with knots tied horizontally. Alpha patterns are often used to create designs with letters or simple images. The alpha pattern charts look like a grid.

This article focuses on teaching you how to read normal patterns.

Where to find patterns

My favorite place to look for patterns is at a website called BraceletBook. Another great site for friendship bracelet patterns is Friendship-Bracelets.net.

Looking for even more pattern inspiration? For beginners, I have compiled a collection of the best simple friendship bracelet patterns. For more experienced bracelet makers, I’ve also compiled an amazing list of advanced friendship bracelet patterns.

Once you learn to read friendship bracelet patterns, you can create any design you come across.

Parts of a friendship bracelet pattern

Let’s use an example of a chevron bracelet pattern. Here are the parts of a bracelet pattern you need to know.

Sample Thumbnail. The pattern usually includes a small preview image at the top of the chart. This will show you what your friendship bracelet will look like once you have completed the project. The colors in the preview image correspond to the colors in the chart.

If you use a tool like Bracelet Book, you can change the colors or the order of the colors as you like. Then look at the new thumbnail to see what the bracelet will look like.

Sample image generated with Braceletbook.com

strings. At the top of the chart, you’ll see a series of strings labeled with letters. The pattern uses a letter for each color. And if you have two strings with the same colors, they have the same letter.

For example, in this chevron bracelet pattern, there are 8 cords, two of each color. That means 2 A’s, 2 B’s, 2 C’s and 2 D’s.

Next, look at the order of the strings.

Let’s assume the letters above read “ABCDDCBA”. That means you start your bracelet with the 8 strings arranged in that specific order.

rows. You will see numbered lines on the sides of the chart. These numbers indicate the rows of the pattern.

Important Note: Some bracelet patterns have an even number of cords, while others have an odd number of cords. For bracelets with an even number of strings, you will see that odd-numbered rows have knots for each pair of strings. Even-numbered rows have one less knot—the outer two threads are not used to tie knots in the row.

node symbols. The circles at the intersections of the strings represent the knots. The arrows indicate the type or direction of each knot.

The bent “elbows” on the outside edges of the even-numbered rows indicate that the two outer strings are unused.

pattern repeat. The pattern card usually contains a complete repeat of the pattern. When you reach the end of the chart, the strings should be lined up in the correct order so you can start the chart again. You will likely need to make many repeats of the pattern to make a finished bracelet.

Review of basic friendship bracelet knots

There are four basic types of friendship bracelet knots.

Forward Node Backward Node Forward Backward Node Backward Forward Node

Each of the four knots consists of two half knots – so-called hitches. The four basic friendship bracelet knots use two knots stacked on top of each other in various combinations.

Forward node: forward clutch + forward clutch

Reverse node: reverse clutch + reverse clutch

Forward-reverse node: forward clutch + reverse clutch

Reverse-forward node: reverse clutch + forward clutch

For a full explanation of the different types of friendship bracelet knots, with lots of diagrams and pictures, be sure to read How to tie the 4 basic friendship bracelet knots.

How to read a friendship bracelet pattern

Now that you’ve chosen a bracelet pattern and your string colors, it’s time to start creating your project.

Cut about 36″ of embroidery floss for each thread. You can also cut 72″ of floss and fold it in half to get two strands of the same color. Tie all the strands together with a simple overhand knot. Leave about a 3-4″ tail. Tape the end of the bracelet to a tabletop, clip the end of the bracelet into a clipboard. You can also secure the knot to your jeans with a safety pin. Arrange the cords in the color order indicated by the letters at the top of the pattern. Work one row at a time, making the knots as indicated by the circled arrows. Let’s assume you have created the pattern example in this post. Starting with row 1, you would make a forward knot, a forward knot, a backward knot, and a backward knot. Continue with row 2. This is an even-numbered row, so you don’t use the outer two strands. If you were to make the pattern example in this post, you would make a forward knot, a forward knot, and a backward knot. Continue along each row, repeating the pattern chart as many times as needed. When the bracelet is as long as you want, tie all the cords together with another overhand knot. Leave a longer end so you can tie the bracelet to your wrist.

And let’s go! You have learned to read chart patterns for friendship bracelets.

What’s next?

Pin this post: Save this tutorial to your Pinterest boards so you can come back to it later.

Leave a comment: I appreciate your feedback. Tell me in the comments below!

Share on Instagram or Facebook: If you make this project, share it on social media and tag me @sarahmaker. I love seeing what you do!

Sarah Stearns has helped thousands of makers find their next craft project with free patterns and step-by-step tutorials on her blog, sarahmaker.com. Continue reading. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Scientific American, Good Housekeeping, Vox, Apartment Therapy, Lifehacker, and more.

Choose the colors you want to include in your design, then cut two 36 inch strands from each. Tie all your strands together 3 inches down and then separate the strands so that the color order is reflected. Note that the color order of your strands is the color order of your chevron pattern.