How to Make Colorful Chevron Friendship Bracelets - DIY Chiclet Bracelet Tutorial

What Are Chiclet Bracelets?

Chiclet bracelets, also known as chevron bracelets, are a popular type of friendship bracelet that feature a distinctive arrow or zigzag pattern. The name comes from their resemblance to Chiclet chewing gum packages with their distinctive arrow designs. Chiclet bracelets are fun, easy bracelets to make that also happen to be quite trendy right now. Their geometric patterns and colorful designs make them eye-catching accessories. Read on to learn more about how to make your own chiclet bracelets!

Chiclet Bracelet Patterns

The most common pattern for chiclet bracelets is the chevron pattern. This features rows of v-shapes or inverted v-shapes, resembling zigzagging arrows. The chevrons can point in one direction or alternate directions from row to row. You can make each chevron the same color, alternate colors, or use a variety of colors. The colors and patterns you choose are up to you - get creative!

Some other chiclet bracelet patterns you could try are horizontal stripes, diagonal stripes, or even checkered patterns. Play around with different color combinations and patterns to find one you love. The great thing about chiclet bracelets is how customizable they are.

How to Make a Chiclet Bracelet

Making chiclet bracelets is easy and fun. They're the perfect beginner friendship bracelet to start with. Here is a step-by-step tutorial on how to make a chevron pattern chiclet bracelet:

Supplies Needed

• Embroidery floss in 2+ colors of your choice
• Scissors
• Tape
• Clipboard or other flat surface (optional)

Instructions

1. Cut 3 strands of each color embroidery floss you want to use, at about 2 yards each. You'll need 6 strands total for a chevron pattern.
2. Tie the strands together at one end in a tight double knot.
3. Tape the knotted end to a clipboard or other flat surface. This keeps the bracelet still as you braid.
4. Separate the strands into 2 groups of 3 strands each. Braid the strands together in a regular braid pattern.
5. When the bracelet is long enough to fit comfortably around your wrist, tie another tight double knot at the end.
6. Trim any excess string from the knots. Also trim the bracelet edges to even them out.
7. Take the bracelet off the clipboard. Tie it around your wrist and fluff out the chevron pattern. Enjoy your new bracelet!

Tips for Making Chiclet Bracelets

Here are some helpful tips to make your chiclet bracelets turn out perfect:

• Use embroidery floss - it has 6 strands so you can easily separate into groups of 3. Regular craft thread may only have 2 or 4 strands.
• Make sure your knots are tight - this will keep the bracelet from unraveling.
• Trim as you braid - cutting off uneven edges keeps the edges neat.
• Braid loosely - don't pull too tight or the chevrons will bunch up.
• Fluff and arrange the chevrons after tying the bracelet.
• Add beads for extra decoration by stringing them onto the strands while braiding.

Wearing Chiclet Bracelets

One of the best things about chiclet bracelets is that they are so versatile when it comes to wearing them. Here are some style tips:

• Layer multiple chiclet bracelets together on one wrist for a fun stacked look.
• Coordinate bracelet colors with your outfit.
• Wear one as a hair tie in a ponytail or bun.
• Make a whole set of matching bracelets to share with friends.
• Give them as gifts - these DIY bracelets make great presents!

Chiclet bracelets are the perfect easy accessory to instantly add some color and personality to your look. With so many potential color combos, patterns, and ways to wear them, you'll never get bored mixing up your chiclet bracelet stack!

Advanced Chiclet Bracelet Patterns

Once you master the basic chevron chiclet bracelet, there are many more intricate patterns you can try. Move on to one of these more advanced designs:

Diagonal Stripes

Use two color strands, braiding one color as normal and the other color diagonally across to create diagonal stripes. This pattern works best with the colors in high contrast.

Candy Stripe

For a candy stripe look, braid together strands of two colors in thin horizontal stripes. Thin sets of two strands in alternating colors works well.

Checkerboard

To make a checkerboard pattern, alternate between two color squares as you braid. Make sure to be consistent with the color order or the pattern won't look right.

Heart

Braid rows of chevrons using red or pink stranded on the outsides and white in the middle to form a heart shape down the center of the bracelet.

The possibilities are endless for unique chiclet bracelet patterns. Experiment with different color combinations, strand placements, and braiding techniques to discover new designs you'll love.

Troubleshooting Chiclet Bracelets

Chiclet bracelets are easy for beginners, but sometimes mistakes happen. Here are tips for troubleshooting any issues that come up with your chiclet bracelets:

Bracelet Won't Stay Together

If your bracelet falls apart or unravels, the likely culprit is knots that are too loose. Redo the knots, being sure to tie them tightly. Check for frayed or worn strings and trim or replace them.

Chevrons Are Bunching Up

Bunched up chevrons mean you pulled the strands too tight while braiding. Try again being careful to braid the strands loosely so they have room to form the chevron shape.

Edges Are Uneven

To prevent uneven raggedy edges, trim off straggling pieces of string as you braid. Tying tight knots also minimizes loose strings.

Pattern Is Off

If your pattern isn't forming correctly, check that you are following the color order consistently and placing strands in the proper order as you braid. Taking it slow helps.

Don't get frustrated if you have to re-do a bracelet once or twice to get the technique down. Once you get comfortable with the basic braiding method, chiclet bracelets will be a breeze to make every time!

FAQs

How many strands of embroidery floss do I need?

You'll need 6 strands total, 3 of each color. Cut strands about 2 yards long each.

What's the best way to keep the bracelet still while braiding?

Taping one end of the bracelet to a flat surface like a clipboard helps keep it from moving around while you braid.

How tight should I braid the bracelet?

Braid loosely so the chevron pattern has room to take shape. Pulling too tight will bunch up the chevrons.

How do I get straight, even bracelet edges?

Trim off any uneven strands as you braid. Tying the knots tightly at each end also helps minimize loose strands.

Can I add beads to my chiclet bracelet?

Yes, you can thread beads onto the strands before braiding. Space them out to add decorative accents.