How to Make a Freeform Friendship Bracelet
Designed by Stephanie Flynn Sokolov
Many people celebrate Valentine’s Day by giving tokens of affection to loved ones. Nothing says “I really love you, friend” like a friendship bracelet. While growing up, all my friends had hand knotted bracelets made from embroidery floss. This take on the friendship bracelet uses the same concept here to creatively declare how most of us would simply unravel without friends like them.
Project Specs
Finished size: 3/4” wide, length is wrist measurement plus ½”.
Weave structure: plain weave, freeform tapestry with added beads, weft-faced.
Warp length: 1 yard
Total warp ends: 13
Width in reed: 1"
EPI: 12
PPI: varies
What You'll Need
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Lace weight yarn for warp
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various coordinating yarns for weft
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beads
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sew-on bracelet clasp
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thread
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Cricket Loom or other rigid heddle loom
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12 dent reed
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tapestry needle
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beading needle
Materials
Equipment
Directions
Using the direct warping method, measure a 1 yard warp of lace weight yarn using the following pattern: sley 6 slots and then take the last thread back to the peg for a total of 13 threads.
Put in a header to spread the warp. I use thinly cut plastic grocery bags strips. Weave 3 picks of the same lace weight yarn used for warp and beat.
Using the tapestry needle, hemstitch the end of the weaving going over one warp and the 3 weft picks. Weave ¼” of plain weave with the lace weight yarn, beating firmly.
Now it's time to start the freeform weaving, as demonstrated in the video. This has a Bohemian flare, so tap into your creative juices and just weave!
Stop freeform weaving once the bracelet has reached its desired length minus ¼”. Weave ¼” of plain weave with the lace warp yarn and hemstitch as in the beginning. Cut the bracelet off the loom, steam press from the back using a press cloth and trim all the loose ends. Attach your desired clasp, or leave the ends and twist the fringe for a bracelet that ties onto your wrist. Give this to someone you love.
Video
Notes
This bracelet was inspired by Liz Smith and her Magpie Bracelet on Creativebug.