In this tutorial we will make a ladder stitched paracord bracelet.
This interesting design was introduced by David Hopper.
I improvised the technique to create the stitch. The result was a bracelet I am quite proud of!
The bracelet is stitched on a regular cobra paracord bracelet.
So, let’s see what you will need for this project!
Supplies
You will need:
- a pre-tied cobra paracord bracelet
- microcord (I used up about 5 feet of microcord to stitch a 6 inch weave)
- lacing needle (you can make your own lacing needle using this tutorial)
- scissors
- lighter.
With these supplies ready, we can begin stitching.
The ladder stitch
As mentioned, begin by tying a cobra paracord bracelet.
After setting up your cobra bracelet we begin by setting up the stitch on the underside:
Start on the underside and place your microcord under a few sections. This will secure it.
Work your way to the top side and towards the right side.
On the right side wrap around the bracelet.
Then back to the left and back to the underside.
We now begin the actual stitching.
Step 1: Go through the side of the bracelet.
Over the top and into the other side.
The diagonal part of the ladder is done this way.
Step 2: Work your microcord below on the same side of the bracelet.
Over one of the cords and back down to the underside.
We now move on to the left side.
Go through the side.
Over the cord and back down to the underside.
With this we completed step 2. We now begin with step 1 again by adding another diagonal cord (step in the ladder).
Step 1 completed again.
Step 2 completed again. Continue alternating step 1 and step 2 until you reach the other side of the bracelet.
Once the bracelet is stitched, work your end back to the underside of the bracelet and secure it under a few sections, just like we did at the start. Cut and melt the end of the microcord to finish.
With that, the bracelet is complete!
A video tutorial on this style of stitching is also available:
Enjoy this beautiful stitch.
Hey, Mark:
Just a note to say how much I like your deco stitching on paracord bracelet tutorials. I just finished doing the ladder stitch (black micro on yellow 550) and it turned out pretty well. There were a couple of starts and stops, due to the learning curve; however, I think I have those ironed out.
Keep up the good work!
Great to hear that!
I have been wondering if the stitching tutorials were helping.
Would love to see your work sometime :)!
Mark
Hi, Mark:
I’ve given that bracelet – as well as one with your stitched hearts – to a friend. However, I DO plan on making more, and will send pictures.
Please keep the tutorials coming – especially the stitching ones.
Note: I’m learning as I go, and have decided that I prefer using gutted 95 cord for stitching rather than the micro – which seems to “get lost” on the 550. And my “needle of choice” (so far) is a metal one used for stitching on plastic canvas.