Ava’s shopAll friendship patterns

First braid · Ages 6+ with help

Island Braid

Finished Island Braid bracelet showing the pattern and tying ends
Finished example · Choose your own colors. Illustrated reference.

Let’s make it

  1. Line up the strands. Tie them together with an overhand knot 10 cm / 4 in from one end. Tape above the knot to a table.
  2. Spread the three strands into left, middle, and right positions. Move the left strand OVER the middle strand. It becomes the new middle.
  3. Move the right strand OVER the current middle strand. It becomes the new middle.
  4. Repeat: left over middle, right over middle. Pull gently and keep the braid even.
  5. Stop when the braid fits around your wrist with a little room. Tie all three strands together with an overhand knot.
  6. Ask a grown-up to tie the loose ends together loosely so the bracelet can be removed. Trim only after checking the fit.