Though they go by many names — paracord bracelet, survival bracelet, parachute cord bracelet, or 550 cord bracelet — this type of bracelet is really like no other. Instead of being intended for fashion use only, the paracord bracelet is actually an important item used in survival situations.
Although it may not look like it on the surface, these bracelets made of paracord can actually be transformed into an incredibly helpful tool. They are made up of many different inner strands that can be cut and transformed into a long length of cord that can be useful in outdoor situations. Here are several different ways that you can make your own paracord bracelet at home, so that you never leave the house unprepared.
Materials Needed to Make a Paracord Bracelet
Making a paracord bracelet is a little bit different than making a bracelet of another type, so we thought it would be a good idea to give you a head’s up of the different types of materials that you will need before you begin to make your bracelet. These materials include:
- Paracord (you can also use other similar cord types, as long as they are similar in width. You may use less, but it’s a good idea to have a lot of paracord cord i.e. 10 feet)
- Tape measure
- A buckle (not necessary if you are making a paracord bracelet that slips on —more on this later)
- Scissors
- A good attitude!
Paracord Watch
The only thing better than a bracelet that could save your life is a bracelet that could save your life and tell you the time! That’s the thought process, at least, behind this paracord bracelet turned watch tutorial. This particular how-to guide can show you how to make a strap for your watch face.
Slip On Paracord Bracelet
The main idea behind the paracord bracelet is that it will be there for you, fast, in your time of need. This is why it makes perfect sense that you would want to have a slip on a bracelet at your disposal, so that it is ready to go right away at the second (not the moment) that you need it. There are plenty of slip on paracord bracelet tutorials online, but we like how easy this one on YouTube is easy to follow.
Triaxial Weave Paracord
Here is a great option for anyone who is looking for a different kind of pattern for their paracord bracelet! The tutorial is in German, but don’t let that intimidate you. You can either have Google translate it, or you can just follow along with the pictures, which are plainly laid out on the page. It’s worth it for the end result, which is a very unique weave!
Quick Deploy Paracord Bracelet
As we mentioned, the whole point of a paracord bracelet is to have something on hand (or on arm, we should say) that can easily be at your disposal. You can find plenty of tutorials online, each one more complicated than the other, that can show you how you can make an easily deployed paracord bracelet. However we find this tutorial unmatched in terms of how to show you how to make a bracelet with easy deployability.
Fishtail Paracord Bracelet
You’ve heard of fishtail braids, but how about a fishtail paracord bracelet? Thanks to this innovative tutorial from Paracord Guild, you can apply this touch braid pattern to your paracord bracelet to ensure that it is extra strong and ready for use in the wild.
Smart Watch Band Paracord Bracelet
We mentioned a watch band earlier, but it was mostly for older watch models. How about if you want a paracord watch band for your new smart watch, as well? This is now a possibility thanks to this easy video guide — this is something worth considering even if you are not comfortable with the idea of going out into the wilderness with your fancy smartwatch! Some people, after all, appreciate paracord more for its look than anything.
90 Second Paracord Bracelet
Your very own homemade paracord bracelet in only 90 seconds? It may seem far-fetched, but it actually isn’t — there is video proof right here. This is the perfect option for somebody who just found out about a last-minute camping trip, or for somebody who doesn’t have a lot of time on their hands!
Nautical Knot Paracord Bracelet
You don’t have to be a boy or girl scout to know the power of the nautical knot (although being one certainly helps!) Whether you are looking to incorporate this knot style into your paracord bracelet for its strength or its style, you can easily do so by following this thoughtful tutorial from Dans Le Lakehouse.
Jeweled Paracord
Just because a paracord bracelet is meant to be worn in the great outdoors, it doesn’t mean that we can’t add a bit of glitz and glam! You can see this for yourself from this tutorial for a DIY jeweled paracord bracelet over at Honestly WTF.
Twisted Paracord Bracelet
This twisted paracord bracelet is a traditional style, but it’s popular for a reason. The twist not only gives you the opportunity to include more cord in your paracord bracelet that could be used later, but it also gives it a unique design that looks more like a fashion bracelet than some of the other options on this list. Find out how to make it here.
Daisy Paracord Bracelet
Like we said before, many paracord bracelets have a very minimal approach which leaves little room for design or personality. However, if you would like to add a flair to your paracord, you can do so by incorporating a feminine floral pattern within the bracelet. See an example of this here.
Interlocked Paracord Bracelet
The interlocked paracord bracelet model is one of the most popular types of paracord bracelets out there. The design not only provides an extra layer of strength, but it also gives you a way to incorporate even more cord within your bracelet! Remember, a paracord bracelet is a way to keep useful cord on your person, in case of emergency. So, the more string the better! This video can show you how to make an interlocked paracord bracelet.
“Double DNA” Paracord Bracelet
This pattern is affectionately referred to as “double DNA” thanks to its intertwining colors. This is great for any science aficionados out there, although it is a viable bracelet for anyone who is looking to incorporate a paracord bracelet into their wardrobe and doesn’t know where to begin!
Paracord Bracelet with Buttons
This paracord bracelet with buttons from Hobby Craft.co.uk is unlike any other paracord bracelet that we have seen on the market! You can make this bracelet yourself, and it’s actually rather easy to do — which makes it quite the fun activity idea for young kids. You can use any buttons that you have on hand — it doesn’t have to look exactly like this tutorial.
Paracord Bracelet With Heart
Speaking of bracelets with personality, there are many individuals out there who won’t be satisfied with a regular paracord bracelet. For those who are used to having bright wardrobes with a lot of vibrant accessories, we present the paracord bracelet with a heart design! This tutorial will show you how you can add small hearts to your paracord using pink thread, and you can add as many or as few as you would like. Find out more over at Instructables.
So there you have it. Even if you don’t ever use your paracord bracelet in an emergency situation (most people don’t), they’re still quite stylish and look great on your wrist. Plus, even if you never need to deploy it, there is no such thing as ever being too prepared.