By Barry LeClair – Paracord Specialist, Suburban Indiana
This is the 13th blog of the Paracord blog series. You can check the other blogs I’ve written here: https://beadshub.co/blogs-paracord
Introduction: Not Just Survival—Now It’s Style
When most people think of paracord, they picture rugged outdoor gear, survival bracelets, and bug-out bag accessories. But here’s a twist I’ve come to really enjoy—paracord makes for surprisingly stylish, personal, and meaningful jewelry.
Whether it’s a bracelet with a story, a necklace with a custom knot, or a charm that reminds you of someone special, paracord jewelry blends craft, function, and emotion in one handmade creation.
In this post, I’ll share my favorite paracord jewelry styles, techniques, and tips—along with the gear I use and how to make each piece unique and gift-worthy.
Section 1: Why Paracord Jewelry Is Worth Making
Paracord jewelry is:
✅ Durable – It can handle daily wear, water, sweat, and sun
✂️ Customizable – Endless colors, weaves, and patterns
🧵 Functional – A bracelet can unravel into several feet of usable cord
💡 Meaningful – Great for personalized gifts or memorial keepsakes
I started making them as gifts during the holidays. Now, I wear a paracord bracelet that holds emergency cord—and my son wears one we made together on a camping trip. They’re functional, but also full of memories.
Section 2: Basic Paracord Jewelry Types
Let’s walk through the top pieces you can make, even as a beginner.
🧶 1. Survival Bracelets
Cobra weave is the classic starter
Easy to size and modify
Add a metal or brass bead from BeadsHub.co for flair and function
🧵 2. Wrist Lanyards
Great for keys or small gear
You can use a monkey fist knot or cobra wrap
Add charms or initials for personalization
💍 3. Necklaces & Pendants
Use softer micro paracord for comfort
Create sliding knots or adjustable closures
Perfect for adding survival tools or symbolic pendants
🎁 4. Anklets, Keychains & Zipper Pulls
Make practical gifts that double as gear
Easy to mass-produce with different knots and color combos
Section 3: What You’ll Need to Get Started
Here’s a basic paracord jewelry kit setup:
Item | Purpose |
---|---|
550 or micro paracord | Core material |
Scissors & lighter | Cutting and sealing ends |
Buckles, clasps, keyrings | Closure options |
Beads or charms from BeadsHub.co | Personal touches |
Paracord jig (optional) | Keeps knots even for bracelets |
💡 Tip: Use softer cords like Type I or micro paracord for comfort when making neck or ankle pieces.
Section 4: Weaving Tips from My Workshop
✅ Pre-measure wrist size and add ~1″ for comfort
🔄 Use consistent tension for symmetrical weaves
🔥 Melt ends cleanly and press with flat metal to avoid sharp bits
🎨 Color contrast makes knots stand out—try a black base with neon wraps
🪡 Add meaning with charms, initials, or engraved beads—BeadsHub.co has great ones that look clean and professional
Section 5: Gift Ideas with Heart
Want to turn your paracord piece into something special?
Father’s Day survival bracelet
Matching friendship anklets
“Remembrance” keychain with a bead engraved with initials
His & Hers paracord rings (yes, they’re a thing!)
These gifts tell stories, not just tie knots.
Conclusion: Fashion Meets Function—Made by Hand, Worn with Meaning
Paracord jewelry is where creativity, survival know-how, and personal style intersect. Whether you’re honoring a memory, giving a unique gift, or just showing off your weaving skills, every piece you make carries something more than just cord.
So grab your paracord, find your favorite bead, and make something that means something.
💬 Got a Favorite Design?
Have a custom bracelet idea you want help with? Or wondering what knot would look best on your pendant piece?
Drop your ideas, photos, or questions in the comments—I’d love to hear from you and help out. And let me know what you’d like next week: Should we cover paracord pet accessories?
I am a beginner and want to learn all I can with paracord creations!