Spiral Bracelet
Materials required: 2 strands of heavy round gimp, 2½ yds. each 1 strand of heavy round gimp, 10″
Cross the strands at their midpoints. ([Fig. 70].) Bring the right under strand around over the next two strands and down behind. ([Fig. 71].) Do the same with the second strand. ([Fig. 72].) Bring the third strand around and down through the loop of the first. ([Fig. 73].) Bring the last strand around and down through both the first and second loops. ([Fig. 74].) Insert the core through the middle so that about 1″ is beyond the knot. Then pull all the strands tight. ([Fig. 75].)
Fig. 70
Fig. 71
Fig. 72
Fig. 73
Fig. 74
Fig. 75
Continue braiding for about 8″ in this same way. Then fit the braid around your wrist to find the bracelet size needed. Cut the long end of the core so that it just touches the beginning of the braid. ([Fig. 76].) Overlap the two ends of the core, and complete the braid over the doubled strand. Tuck the loose ends through the beginning stitches and trim them off close to the braid.
Fig. 76
Braided Belts
Belts to match bracelets and leashes or to harmonize with various costumes are favorite gimp projects. They may be made from any type of gimp. The popular twelve-strand braids can have as many as six colors, if so desired.
The choice of the buckle is quite important. Standard buckles with tongues are the most widely used. Special decorative effects can be achieved with tongueless buckles. Other attractive results can be produced by covering the buckle with gimp, using half hitches ([Fig. 77]) or basket stitches as shown in [figure 78].
Fig. 77
Fig. 78