Parachute Cord Projects

Parachute cord is strong and lightweight, making it an excellent item to add to a survival kit. The cord is available in a wide range of patterns and colors, which allow for the creation of attractive products, even when survival cord is not needed, such as with a dog leash.

  1. Cobra Stitch Bracelet

    • The cobra stitch is one of the most commonly used stitches with parachute cord, as it is easy to complete and makes for an eye-pleasing bracelet. Hang four ends side-by-side, either by tying the ends of four cords together or bending a single cord in half and then folding both loose ends around a key ring or bead. Drape one outer cord over the two center cords, then pass the other outer cord over the section of the first cord that crossed the center, behind the center cords and through the loop in the first cord formed when you bent it. For a flat braid, repeat the stitch while alternating which end passes in front of center and which is behind, or continually pass the same end in front and the same end behind for each stitch to create a helix braid.

    Box Stitch Key Chain

    • A box stitch uses two different cords and makes a braid with four flat sides. Thread one cord through the key ring being used, then cross the second cord atop it with the midpoints aligned. Bend both ends of the lower cord over the center to make parallel loops, then weave both ends of the top cord over the near loop and under the far loop. Pull tight to finish the stitch, then repeat the stitch to create a braid.

    Paracord Cross

    • A parachute cord cross uses multiple box stitches to create a cross from four cords. Combine the cords in pairs using a box stitch; however, align the cords so that the intersection sections are off-center. Create multiple stitches in each pair of cords, then press the ends of the two braids together so that the four short ends hang in one direction and the four long ends in the other. Tie box stitches in the short ends, then again with the long ends, to create a cross.

    Diamond Lanyard

    • The diamond lace creates a round lanyard from four cords, or a pair of cords that are each bent in half. With four ends hanging side-by-side, pass the left cord behind the two center cords, then back in front of the right center cord. Next, pass the right cord behind the center cords, then back over the left center cord. Repeat the weave, alternating between the leftmost cord first, then the rightmost cord, until your braid is as long as desired. Then grab all four ends and tie a knot to secure the lanyard.