Not Just for Kids: Braid Your Own Camp-Inspired Rope Tassel Keychain

Instead of exchanging bracelets with your besties, give them a stylish, summer-friendly accessory.

By: Katie Friedman

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Have fun outside and learn a new skill this summer with HGTV's camp-themed series! We'll be sharing grown-up takes on camp crafts, delicious campfire recipes and ways to make backyard camping more luxurious. Follow along using #summercampweek all week long!

The most tried-and-true method of cementing a friendship at summer camp? Giving your new bestie a hand-woven bracelet. Back in the day, my friends and I spent hours sitting at picnic tables with embroidery thread, seed beads and scissors crafting colorful patterns and showing them off to our camp counselors.

HGTV Summer Camp: Rope Keychain

HGTV Summer Camp: Rope Keychain

Step 1: Cut a 5-inch piece of twine or string, then tie a knot around the jump ring. Step 2: Choose 2-5 beads and add them to the twine. Set aside. Step 3: Use scissors to cut a 10-inch piece of cotton rope. Step 4: Pull apart the two ends of the rope to create frayed edges, then overlap to form a loop. Step 5: Use tape to keep the loop in place, then glue to secure it. Step 6: Select your first color of thread. Wrap the thread tightly across the entire loop, using glue to secure it as you go. Let that thread dry, then continue with your next color. Step 7: When complete, use your previous piece of twine to attach the tassel to the end of your keychain. Bonus Step: Tie craft ribbon to your jump ring for a more festive look.

Photo by: Jason Kisner

Jason Kisner

Now that I'm older and a little (read: completely) obsessed with all things boho-chic, I find there's still merit in knowing how to braid. Put your skills to the test and make an easy DIY rope tassel that will give your beach bag or keyring the perfect splash of color.

HGTV Summer Camp: Rope Keychain

HGTV Summer Camp: Rope Keychain

Step 1: Cut a 5-inch piece of twine or string, then tie a knot around the jump ring. Step 2: Choose 2-5 beads and add them to the twine. Set aside. Step 3: Use scissors to cut a 10-inch piece of cotton rope. Step 4: Pull apart the two ends of the rope to create frayed edges, then overlap to form a loop. Step 5: Use tape to keep the loop in place, then glue to secure it. Step 6: Select your first color of thread. Wrap the thread tightly across the entire loop, using glue to secure it as you go. Let that thread dry, then continue with your next color. Step 7: When complete, use your previous piece of twine to attach the tassel to the end of your keychain. Bonus Step: Tie craft ribbon to your jump ring for a more festive look.

Photo by: Jason Kisner

Jason Kisner

HGTV Summer Camp: Rope Keychain

HGTV Summer Camp: Rope Keychain

Step 1: Cut a 5-inch piece of twine or string, then tie a knot around the jump ring. Step 2: Choose 2-5 beads and add them to the twine. Set aside. Step 3: Use scissors to cut a 10-inch piece of cotton rope. Step 4: Pull apart the two ends of the rope to create frayed edges, then overlap to form a loop. Step 5: Use tape to keep the loop in place, then glue to secure it. Step 6: Select your first color of thread. Wrap the thread tightly across the entire loop, using glue to secure it as you go. Let that thread dry, then continue with your next color. Step 7: When complete, use your previous piece of twine to attach the tassel to the end of your keychain. Bonus Step: Tie craft ribbon to your jump ring for a more festive look.

Photo by: Jason Kisner

Jason Kisner

And remember: they still make great gifts for your BFFs.

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