Friendship Bracelets: Easy Patterns for Kids

By Hannah Cole · October 12, 2026

The Comeback of Friendship Bracelets

Friendship bracelets are back in a big way. They teach fine motor skills, pattern recognition, and patience — and the finished product is something kids can wear, trade, and gift. All you need is embroidery floss and tape.

Getting Started

Materials

Embroidery floss (6-strand cotton)
Scissors
Tape or clipboard to hold bracelet steady
Ruler for measuring

Basic Knots

Every friendship bracelet is built from just two knots:

Forward knot: Left string crosses over right, loops under and through. Creates a left-to-right movement.
Backward knot: Right string crosses over left, loops under and through. Creates a right-to-left movement.

Pattern 1: Candy Stripe (Easiest)

Use 6 strings in different colors. Tie them together at the top and tape down. Take the leftmost string and knot it over each string moving right. When it reaches the right side, start again with the new leftmost string. The stripe pattern emerges naturally.

Pattern 2: Chevron (Intermediate)

Use 8 strings (4 colors, 2 of each). Arrange symmetrically: A-B-C-D-D-C-B-A. Left strings make forward knots toward center, right strings make backward knots toward center. The V-shape forms where they meet.

Pattern 3: Simple Braid (Youngest Kids)

Group 3-6 strands and braid like hair. This is the easiest method and works for ages 4+. Use thick yarn for small hands to practice with before moving to thin floss.