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In this tutorial we will take a look at a special variation of the 2 color conquistador braid.
Dubbed “the Gemini” and as far as I know, introduced by Nick Toong, this is a beautiful braid.
Back side of the braid.
Unlike the 2 color version I showed yesterday, this one is divided horizontally, making it a really nice braid for making bracelets and belts. Made in two colors, you can really make a nice looking contrast, while still keeping the conquistador braid look.
Due to the way this braid is made, you will need non-even numbers of loops to make it. 3, 5, 7 and so on.
Before undertaking this braid, I highly recommend learning the basic conquistador braid (shown in the conquistador bracelet tutorial). This version is a bit more advanced and knowing the basic braid will make your work a lot easier.
Let’s see how to braid this unique braid!
The “Gemini” tutorial
The braid is made by rotating the top and bottom color to make it look like the braid is made with even parts, even though the loops used are not even. In a way, this connects the two colors/parts.
For this project you will need 2 colors of paracord, a lacing needle (or two) and a buckle.
The photo tutorial below should be all you need for the braid, if you prefer video though, it is also available, here.
Preparation
The first step is to prepare our cords and buckle for braiding. There are most likely many ways to start this braid. I have made my own, feel free to use this one, or come up with your own after you master the braid.
Braiding
The braid is done in two basic steps, just like the regular conquistador braid. In step one we travel from the bottom to the top of the braid, in step two we travel from top to bottom. Then step one is repeated.
Step one
In step one we take our bottom cord and make two loops with it (in my case when using 3 loops. For more, you would basically use one more loop for the bottom than the top). We then switch to the top cord and make another loop. Note that when going towards the top, the working end passes behind the working cord.
Step two
In step two we travel from the top to bottom. This time we make two loops (in this case) with the top cord and one with the bottom. Note that when travelling down, the cord end passes behind the working cord.
In conclusion
To continue, we would switch back to step one.
Make sure to braid the braid tight for best look.
To make things easier I also made a video tutorial, enjoy!
