Weddingbee Blog

In addition to the shirts and ties, Macs wanted to make something a little more meaningful for each of the groomsmen. Survival bracelets! Each bracelet is made with ten feet of 550 cord, a very strong nylon rope originally used by paratroopers during World War II. The chord can be used for just about anything, from an improvised tourniquet or for tying splints to replacing a broken strap or shoelaces. Our groomsmen can be pretty adventurous; I hope none of them will find themselves in danger but if they do the bracelets might help.

For this project you’ll need a pair of scissors, a lighter, a tape measure, and 10 feet of paracord per bracelet. You can order the cord online or purchase it from a local army/navy surplus.

Step 1: Cut a 2ft piece and melt the ends to prevent fraying. Fold it in half and tie an overhand knot at the end. Slide the knot under the loop and make sure you can stick a finger between the cord and your wrist. This will serve as the core of the bracelet.

Step 2a: Lay the remaining 8ft of chord underneath and perpendicular to the bracelet core. Take the piece on right and bring across the top of the core, forming a “Z”. Thread the piece on the left through the lower loop, going under the base cord and out through the upper loop. Pull both ends tightly, forming a cobra knot. {See 2b} Make sure you have equal lengths of chord on both sides.

Step 3: Repeat the same knot, but starting with the left side. (It will look like an “S”) Pull both ends and you have your first row.

Step 4: Continue making cobra knots all the way down the cord. If you get confused or lose track always start making the “Z” or “S” on the side with the vertical portion of the knot. Be sure to tightly push the knots together as you go (as indicated by the red arrows).

You’ll end up with little tails at the end; just tuck them into the core.

Mr. Macs is quite proud of his project and I have to admit they’re kinda neat. Are you gifting your groomsmen anything unusual?