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Some things just feel like summer—bike rides, popsicles, campfires… and colorful string tied into friendship bracelets. If you grew up in the 90s, chances are your wrists and ankles were stacked with hand-tied creations from your besties (and maybe a few you made yourself).
And good news: these classic string bracelets are still just as fun today.
Whether your child is brand new to crafting or already loves making things with their hands, these 5 easy string bracelet styles are the perfect introduction to a screen-free summer hobby that never goes out of style.
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This is the classic beginner bracelet—and one so many of us learned first. It’s made using simple forward knots that gradually build diagonal lines in a striped pattern.
Why kids love it:
Super easy to learn
Endless color combos
A great first project for building confidence
In our kit, it’s often the first style kids try before moving on to more complex patterns. It’s satisfying to finish—and perfect for trading with friends!
A step up from the candy stripe, the chevron bracelet uses both forward and backward knots to create a neat “V” shape down the middle. This one feels just a little more advanced—but still easy enough for kids to pick up with a visual guide.
Why we love it:
The “V” pattern looks impressive
It’s totally customizable with 2, 3, or more colors
Great for older kids who want something just a bit more challenging
This bracelet is a favorite for making matching sets—one for you, one for your best friend.
If your child wants something a little funkier than stripes or chevrons, the zigzag bracelet adds movement and bold style. It’s created by combining forward and backward knots in a way that makes the rows seem to jump across the bracelet.
Why it stands out:
Looks cool and edgy
A fun twist on traditional patterns
Kids love figuring out the “secret” to the zigzag effect
It’s a great next-step bracelet for kids who’ve already mastered basic knots and want to show off their skills a bit.
This is one of the most practical patterns kids can learn. Square knots are used in everything from survival gear to decorative macramé—and in bracelets, they’re perfect for a sturdy, textured look that’s easy to wear and even easier to adjust.
Why it’s a favorite:
Super versatile (and looks great with hemp cord)
Teaches a foundational knot kids will use again and again
Great for making adjustable bracelets with sliding closures
You can even combine square knots with beads or charms for a more personalized touch—everything you need is in the kit.
Looking for something fun and twisty? The spiral bracelet is made by tying the same knot over and over—which causes the cord to naturally twist into a rope-like spiral. It’s perfect for kids who love a more tactile, fidget-friendly bracelet.
Why it’s a win:
Super simple to learn
The twisting effect is fun to watch happen
Works great with hemp cord or thicker string
It also happens to be one of the most meditative patterns to make—perfect for calming down or passing the time quietly.
Every bracelet on this list is easy enough for kids to try and fun enough to keep them making more. Whether they’re working alone or crafting with a group, these patterns are:
Portable: Bring them in the car, to camp, or on vacation
Creative: Kids can mix and match colors, patterns, and styles
Tradable: Make one, wear one, give one—it’s the 90s all over again
Relaxing: The repetition of knotting can be incredibly calming (even for adults!)
If your child hasn’t gotten into bracelet-making yet, this list is the perfect way to get them excited. And if you’ve been meaning to teach them the basics but don’t have the time (or the supplies), our kit makes it all so much easier.
You might be wondering: Do I need to look up a tutorial for each of these?
Nope!
Every style in this list (and many more) is included in the step-by-step book that comes with our Introduction to Friendship Bracelets Kit for Kids.
With more than 30 bracelet patterns, color photos, and kid-friendly instructions, the book is the perfect guide—and it’s included right in the box along with:
Over 3600 flat clay beads, letter beads, charms, and accents
80 yards of embroidery floss in vibrant colors
Hemp cord and stretchy string
Safe scissors and tweezers for precision bead work
You don’t have to prep anything. Just open the box and start crafting.
Friendship bracelets aren’t just a craft—they’re a summer vibe. They’re creative, nostalgic, confidence-boosting, and just plain fun.
And with the right tools and clear instructions, every kid can master these easy string bracelet styles—all while making memories that last a lot longer than the string on their wrist.
Author: Elizabeth, Team Knowledge Crates
Elizabeth is a former classroom teacher turned homeschool mom with a Master of Science in Education. She's been homeschooling for six years with her kiddos who are currently in kindergarten and third grade. At Knowledge Crates, Elizabeth develops the elementary unit studies and test-runs activities with her kids.
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What is the easiest friendship bracelet to make?
The candy stripe bracelet is one of the easiest to start with. It uses one simple knot repeated across multiple strands and is great for beginners.
What’s the difference between candy stripe and chevron bracelets?
Candy stripe bracelets have diagonal lines that go in one direction, while chevron bracelets form a “V” pattern by combining forward and backward knots.
How many strings do you need for a friendship bracelet?
Most basic patterns use 4 to 6 strings, but some more detailed styles (like chevron or zigzag) use 8 or more. Your bracelet’s width depends on how many strands you use.
What’s a square knot in a bracelet?
A square knot is a macramé-style knot used in hemp bracelets and adjustable closures. It creates a flat, sturdy pattern that works well for thicker cords.
Can kids make these bracelets on their own?
Yes! Most of these styles are kid-friendly with a little practice. Our bracelet kit includes a visual guide that makes learning easy—even for beginners.
What’s the best friendship bracelet kit for kids learning new styles?
The Introduction to Friendship Bracelets Kit for Kids is a great choice. It includes instructions for candy stripe, chevron, zigzag, spiral, and square knot styles (30 styles in total!)—all with visual guides, tools, and over 3600 colorful beads to customize every creation. It’s perfect for beginners who want to explore a variety of string bracelet patterns.
