Question...

[eirenealetheia]

I'm planning to make a 4-plait round braided bracelet with a three part four bight button to secure it, using instructions from the RM Williams "Bushman's Handcrafts" book (LOVE it!). I have absolutely no experience braiding (does doing horses' manes and tails for competitions count? LOL!) but I have faith in the instructions...

However I was curious... how do I work out how long I need to cut the pieces of leather lace? Is there any rule about how much it will shorten with the braiding, or can anyone give me a rough idea? I'm aiming to make the bracelet about 7 and a half inches long then with the button on the end...

Thanks!

[8thsinner]

There is sort of a rule of thumb to work with. one and a half times the length especially for a mere four strand. as you move up to thicker braids like 10,12,16 etc it gets a little more tricky.

For the button, I would practice with some cordage first and find out how much you need to work with personally.

I can probably do a simple turks head closure now with an inch and ahalf or so extra if pushed, if your beginning, I would recommend at least 4-5 inches.

Good luck, and post pics when your done.

[entiendo]

For 4 strands I don't even double it. I make double 4 strand bracelets all the time and I use 25" of string. That gives me about 15" of 4 plait round braid.