Make a Friendship Bracelet

What You Need:

• Three colors of embroidery thread, yarn or plastic lacing
• Scissors

What You Do:

1. Measure out and cut 24-inch strands of each thread color.
2. Tie the strands together into a simple knot, leaving about three inches at the end.
3. Help your child anchor the knot firmly so they will be able to easily manipulate the strands. Pinning the knot to a sofa or closing it in a drawer works well. Your child can even have their friend hold the end as they work.
4. Separate the strands so there is one on the left, one in the middle, and one on the right.
5. Have your child begin with the strand on the left. Use this strand to tie two knots onto the middle strand. Then continue on to the next strand over and tie two knots on the right strand. Be sure they tie the knots firmly.
6. The strand on the left has now moved across to the right.
7. Using the new strand that is on the left, tie two knots onto the middle strand and continue on to tie two knots on the right strand.
8. Have your child continue to repeat this process. A pattern of colors will begin to emerge.
9. Make sure your child checks for sizing around their friend’s wrist or around their own wrist. When they have reached the desired size, have them tie a simple knot at the end of their bracelet and cut. Be sure to leave about three inches at the end.
10. Have your child tie both ends together around their friend’s wrist, or they can give it as a gift for a birthday or another special occasion.

For an added touch, your child can string beads onto the strands after every couple rows, then continue to tie the knots in the same manner after each bead. They'll love making these friendship bracelets. This is also a great project for you and your child to do together this Mother's Day.