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Creating a paracord keychain is a simple yet rewarding DIY project. It’s a great way to personalize your keys or even make a functional lanyard to attach to other items, like a knife. In this guide, we’ll walk through each step, with visuals to make it easy to follow along.
Before diving into the crafting, let’s clarify some terms. A keychain is typically a smaller loop meant for carrying keys, while a lanyard has a slightly longer loop, designed to attach securely to objects like knives. For keychains, the loop is shorter, making it compact and practical. For lanyards, a longer loop allows it to attach more easily to larger items.
To make a paracord keychain or lanyard, gather the following materials:
Step 1: Choosing the Loop Length
Start by determining the loop length for your keychain or lanyard. For a keychain, you’ll want a shorter loop, while a lanyard should have a longer one. Once you’ve chosen the length, tie a Snake Knot at the base of the loop, pulling it tightly to ensure it stays in place.
Step 2: Adding a Bead
Slide a bead onto both strands of the paracord. This bead serves as a central design element and helps secure the structure. Position the bead at the base of the Snake Knot.
Step 3: Tying a Diamond Knot
Below the bead, tie a Diamond Knot to keep the bead in place and add stability. This knot adds both form and function. Use a needle or your fingers to adjust and tighten the Diamond Knot, ensuring it sits firmly under the bead. Leave enough space between the top and bottom knots to maintain a neat appearance.
Step 4: Setting Up for Braiding
Place the knotted base on a braiding jig if you have one. This tool helps keep the cords taut, making it easier to braid. If you don’t have a jig, you can braid by hand, but the jig provides more control, especially for beginners.
Step 5: Starting the Wrap (Cobra Weave)
Now, begin wrapping with the microcord. The Cobra weave is a popular choice for this part as it’s durable and visually appealing. Secure the end of the microcord at the base of the Diamond Knot, then start wrapping over both strands in a consistent pattern, alternating sides as you go. The Cobra weave will build up quickly around the core of the paracord.
Step 6: Finishing and Trimming the Ends
Once you’ve reached the desired length, remove the keychain from the jig. Cut any excess cord, leaving about 2-3 mm at the ends. Carefully use a lighter to melt these ends, pressing them gently with a metal tool to secure the melted tips, preventing any fraying or loosening of knots.
Tips and Variations
Making a paracord keychain is a fun, hands-on project that results in a personalized accessory. With these steps, you can create a simple yet functional keychain or lanyard that’s perfect for daily use. Enjoy crafting, and don’t forget to experiment with your own styles and variations!
Authors: Cetus Paracord | Cetus_550 and Aleks Nemtcev | Connect with me on LinkedIn
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