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Rainbow Bracelet

Description: The Rainbow Bracelet features the use of multiple colors to produce an interesting wavy design. You can use any combination of colors, and as many cords as you wish.

The width of this Macrame bracelet is determined by how many cords you are using.

In the example shown, two cords of each color (8 cords) resulted in a bracelet 1-inch wide (2mm size material).

This Micro-Macrame pattern uses basic knots, so is a great project for beginners. You can make this jewelry design with 2mm cord first, and then try it with more delicate materials.

Important: Use a project board and pins, to help you stretch the cords so they are straight.

Supplies Needed:

1mm to 2mm Cord material (several colors)

Project Board and pins

Fabric or Household glue

One bead for clasp (hole suitable for 4 cords)

Knots Used:

Double Half Hitch

Larks Head Knot (reverse variation)

Overhand knot

Preparation

Holding Cords: Cut 2 cords (any color), each 36 inches long

Working Cords: Cut 1 cord of each color, at least 70 inches long (for bracelets up to 8 inches in size).

Prepare the ends using one of the techniques described in Cord Preparation.

Step 1: Secure both holding cords to your board, so they are horizontal.

The working cords should be mounted 8 inches from one end of the holding cords, as follows (reverse Larks Head knot):

<< Fold one working cord in half, and place it on top of the two holding cords.

Bring the ends under the holding cords and over the folded area of the working cord. >>

Mount the working cords in the order you want the colors to be arranged in the Rainbow Bracelet.

Step 2: Turn the design so it is resting vertically. Secure it at the top, so it can't move.

Bring all the working cords to the left of the holding cords. There will be two of each color, since you folded them in half.

Move the left holding cord on a gentle diagonal slant towards the left. Secure it well.

Pass the working cord at the bottom of the group (green) under the holding cord.

Make the first Half Hitch by rotating the cord clockwise, over - under the holding cord.

As you pull it to the right, pass it over the working cord.

Step 3: Tie another Half Hitch with the same working cord, after the first one is tightened FIRMLY.

All the Double Half Hitches tied in the Rainbow Bracelet need to be tight, so the areas between them are straight.

Repeat steps 2 and 3, attaching the remaining working cords to the same holding cord.

So the next one used in this example was green, followed by 2 yellow, 2 red, and 2 blue (from the bottom up).

Important: Pull each working cord taut as you bring it straight down to make the Double Half Hitches. The cord will be straighter if you tie the first Half Hitch firmly and eliminate any slack.

One method for keeping the cords straight is to pull them down with one hand, and tie the Half Hitch with the other. Be sure to continue to hold the cord while tying the second knot.

Step 4: Move the second holding cord to the left, passing it over all the working cords.

You can either secure it so it has tension, or control it with your hand while tying the next set of DHH.

Step 5: Attach the working cords with DHH, in the same order as the first row.

Push the knots close together, so the holding cord doesn't show, especially at the top.

Step 6: Move the holding cord on the right the other direction (right), and secure it.

Bring the first working cord (at the bottom) under the holding cord, and then tie the first Half Hitch (counter-clockwise).

Tie 2 more knots, to make it a Triple Half Hitch.

The third knot will make the angle a little rounder, so the Rainbow Bracelet has curved edges.

Step 7: Attach the remaining cords with Double Half Hitches, pulling each one tightly.

The area between the rows of DHH should be as straight as possible.

Bring the second holding cord to the right and tie the next row. The first knot should be a Triple Half Hitch.

Step 8: As you continue to make the rest of the Rainbow Bracelet, here are some important tips:

Always use the holding cord on the inside first.

Start the row of Half Hitches with the working cord closest to the holding cord.

The knot you tie with the first working cord should be a Triple Half Hitch.

Step 9: Measure the Rainbow Bracelet frequently, and stop when it's the length you need. It's more comfortable if you leave it a little loose.

Finishing Touches

Step 10: Turn over the Rainbow Bracelet, so you are working at the back.

Tie very tight Overhand knots with each pair of two working cords (same color).

Position them so they rest against the back of the last row of DHH. Apply glue on the inside of the knot as you tighten them.

Step 11: When the glue is completely dry, cut off the excess material.

You will use the holding cords to make the clasp.

You can make a Sliding Clasp, or a simple Bead Clasp, which is shown below.

Bead Clasp: Pass the 4 ends of the holding cords though the bead in opposite directions. Close the clasp by pulling on the ends.

Move down at least 2 inches and tie Barrel knots (or other finishing knots).

Can't pass the 4 cords through the hole? Try using a wire threader:

Fold a piece of fine wire in half and pass it through the bead. Put one cord through it near the fold.

Pull on the ends, which will bring the cord through the bead. Repeat with the remaining three cords.

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