Not perfect though it works. Proves to me that I still have some knowledge at a skill. Learned this 31 years ago and haven't done it since then. It's only three strands though maybe I can learn more strands. Now to brush up on whittling.
Four strand isn't too difficult, over one, under two. Hm. Might be time to try again, it's been a "while".
I figure I could make a minimal belt with three though if I add more it would be a wider belt. I learned when younger as we would rebraid lead ropes instead of buying new ones. Many uses for braided ropes. I do know that if you keep each turn tight it makes the rope stiffer. Looser turns will allow for more plyability. Will also start learning the monkey fist.
You might like to try this, without cutting your line. I have always called this a running loop, but this guy calls it a single line braid. The sling on my crossbow case is made this way, and whatever rope you use, will end up 1/3 of your original length, and still be usable at full length with just a tuck and pull.
I really need to learn this. I've never tried it but need some things made from paracord. Maybe next Winter...
The three is easy to learn. It can come in handy for lots of things. Fingers get a workout though in my case.
I printed off a manual on different paracord crafts, tying and uses manual. I have 550 paracord plus I also bought some micro paracord. The micro is nice to have because I do not think one should only have one size and the micro works fine when making a shelter with a tarp.
If you want a thinner cordage, than paracord, mason cord is very good. Strong braided line, and very useful. I carry a spool in my pack. Comes in a lot of colors if you want variety. Marshalltown Florescent Yellow Braided Mason's Line 500 ft. ML339-HD at The Home Depot - Mobile
I don't much go for braiding, however I use a rip stop nylon stuff bag to store my paracord . I't far more efficient to deploy and put away after use.
One method of making straps is called finger-weaving. Its a traditional Native American weaving technique. Its time consuming but easy to learn. Here is a video of Dave Canterbury teaching the method.
There are a heap of YouTube clips on finger knitting...search for the one which appeal to you most and explain the technique....it just requires a hand with 2-4 intact fingers and a thumb. Probably could be done with a prosthetic hand also. I am almost at the cusp of learning this skill....if only that it gives me something to justify knittin' 'n' bitchin' with the girls....(well, women actually, median age hovering in the 70's somewhere) in the group that I share may Saturday mornings with. Here is an example..... Google Note that there are 2 finger and 4 finger methods of finger knitting....that will give wider or narrower plaited results. paracord knitting would be just as effective as knitting with wool or I would suppose coarsely twined hemp cordage. knit it...don't smoke it....there isn't much, if any THC in hemp rope....so I am told. Edit, with para-cord and similar material, a large gauge crocheting hook may be of use to the ham fisted.
Or you could try your hand at arm knitting.....it's the bondage and discipline craft that you can play in public with yourself without anybody else knowing, or becoming alarmed.....so I have been told.... potentially it could be used with coarse cordage also.
