How to Practice Paracord Weaves Using Scrap Pieces
By Barry LeClair
Paracord Specialist, Based in Suburban Indiana
This is the 42th blog of the paracord blog series. You check the other blogs I wrote from here – https://beadshub.co/blogs-paracord/
Practicing paracord weaves using scrap pieces is one of the smartest ways to improve your knotting skills without wasting fresh cord. As someone who has built custom lanyards, slings, and tactical grips for years, I can confidently say that scraps aren’t junk—they’re your learning material.
In this post, we’ll cover:
Why scrap paracord is perfect for practice
The best types of weaves to learn first
How to organize your workspace
Smart uses for finished practice pieces
Where paracord brass beads fit into your trials
Whether you’re just getting started or trying to refine your cobra weave, this guide is built from my own hands-on experience. 🧵
Why Practice with Scrap Paracord?
Every paracord project generates leftovers—and if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably got a drawer full of them. Here’s why those off-cuts are gold:
No fear of messing up: You’re not wasting premium cord.
Perfect for repetition: You can redo the same knot several times without starting over.
Great for kids or beginners: Teach without the cost.
Portable practice: Small pieces are easy to toss in a go-bag.
Instead of tossing them, use those scraps to try new knots or develop finger muscle memory.
The Best Weaves to Practice First 🧶
If you’re new, or coming back after a break, start with these beginner- and intermediate-friendly weaves:
1. Cobra Weave
Great for lanyards and bracelets. Very forgiving and easy to recognize when a mistake is made.
Learn from this clean guide: https://www.paracordguild.com/how-to-make-a-paracord-bracelet/
2. Solomon Bar
This is the basis for many decorative straps. Mastering it helps with flat lays and repeated pattern work.
3. Snake Knot
Ideal for key fobs and zipper pulls. It’s tight, looks great with beads, and teaches rhythm.
4. Trilobite Weave
A flat weave that teaches spacing control. It’s a little more advanced but very rewarding.
5. Zipper Sinnet
A simple decorative weave you can use on zippers, knife handles, or gear pulls. Uses short lengths very well.
Setting Up a Productive Practice Space 🔧
Even if you’re using scrap, you’ll benefit from a tidy, functional workspace:
Use a small jig or board: You don’t need a fancy one—a piece of scrap wood and binder clips work.
Sort scraps by length and color: This helps when trying two-tone patterns.
Keep scissors, pliers, and a needle handy: Some knots are easier to adjust with tools.
Practice in good lighting: Paracord colors and mistakes are easier to see.
Tip: Stick a corkboard to your wall and pin finished weaves for comparison.
What to Do with Finished Practice Pieces
Even your practice weaves don’t have to go to waste:
Turn them into zipper pulls or keychains
Use as emergency tie-offs
Add to a scrap art collage (fun for kids or shows)
Trade with other paracord hobbyists for feedback
I keep a small jar labeled “test pieces” that I use when teaching workshops or showing off weave options.
Add Brass Beads to Test Function & Fit 🟡
When you’re testing fit, spacing, or weight balance—even during practice—weaving in a brass bead helps you simulate real applications:
Use https://beadshub.co to grab a few solid brass beads made for paracord—we design them to fit tightly yet smoothly.
Add them to short zipper pulls to learn how weight affects feel.
Try different bead placements to see how they lock knots in place.
They’re not just decorative—they’re functional components.
Keeping the Habit Going 
Want to improve your weave consistency? Practice daily—even five minutes helps:
Do a different knot every day for a week.
Save photos of your progress.
Compare tightness and alignment over time.
Rewatch tutorials as refreshers.
And remember, just like any other hand skill—repetition builds mastery.
Final Thoughts
Scrap paracord is a treasure for anyone serious about improving their weaving skills. It’s budget-friendly, risk-free, and a great way to prepare for bigger, better projects. Add in a few brass beads and you’ve got a full-scale training session in miniature.
📣 Got a question about weaves? Drop it in the comments—I’ll do my best to help out.
Next week, we’ll be diving into knife care and paracord compatibility. What do you want to learn about in that post?
