Step by step lanyard string designs give you a simple way to turn plain cord into something useful and creative. With just a few strings, you can make patterns that hold keys, ID badges, or even become part of a handmade project.
To make a lanyard string design, start by learning a few basic stitches such as the box stitch, spiral stitch, or snake knot. Lay your strands of craft lace or plastic lacing in an X shape, then begin weaving by moving the top or side strands over and under the others.
Keep repeating this weaving pattern to grow your design and reach the length you want. When you’re finished, secure the ends by tying a knot, adding a dab of glue, or tucking the loose strands back through the loops.
As you learn, you can try new colors, combine cords, or finish with beads for a polished look. The process is easy to follow, but it also leaves room for creativity.
Key Takeaways
- Learn the basics and gather simple tools to get started
- Follow clear steps to build strong and neat lanyard designs
- Add creative details to make each project unique
Check out our article, How to Make Pipe Cleaner Flowers: Easy DIY Craft Guide and discover a colorful, beginner-friendly project to brighten any day.
Materials and Tools for Lanyard String Designs
You need the right materials and tools to make lanyards that look neat and last a long time. The type of string you choose and the quality of your supplies will affect how easy it is to work with patterns like box stitch, cobra, or spiral.
Choosing the Right Lanyard String
The most common string for lanyard crafts is plastic lacing, often called gimp, rexlace, or boondoggle. This flat, flexible plastic cord is smooth, easy to knot, and comes in many colors.
You can also find round cord, paracord, or even leather lace, but flat plastic lacing is the easiest for beginners. When picking string, think about width and durability.
Standard rexlace is about 3mm wide, which makes it simple to weave into keychains or bracelets. If you want tighter stitches, choose thinner cord.
For bigger projects, like bag straps, thicker cord works better. Different finishes change the look of your project. Glossy lacing reflects light for bright designs, while matte lacing gives a softer look.
Glow-in-the-dark and glitter options are out there too and can add some fun variety to your lanyards. Here’s a quick chart for reference:
|
String Type |
Best For |
Look/Finish |
|
Rexlace (flat) |
Keychains, lanyards |
Glossy, smooth |
|
Round plastic cord |
Spiral designs |
Shiny, flexible |
|
Paracord |
Heavy-duty projects |
Matte, sturdy |
Recommended: Caydo Gimp Strings
Caydo gimp strings are a great starter choice. They’re affordable, durable, and sold in large packs with plenty of colors.
Each 25-yard roll makes dozens of lanyards or keychains. The flat, flexible plastic pulls through tight stitches without snapping, perfect for box designs. Bright, consistent shades (neon, metallic, clear) let you mix up styles, and the ends fray less than cheaper brands.
With steady quality and fun color options, Caydo strings make lanyard crafting easier and more enjoyable.
Fundamental Techniques and Starting Your Lanyard
You need the right setup before weaving a lanyard. Accurate string lengths and a solid first knot can make the difference between a neat project and one that unravels too soon.
Preparing and Measuring Strings
Start by choosing your material. Most crafters use plastic lace, also called gimp or boondoggle.
It comes in flat or round styles and in many colors. Flat lace lies smoother, while round lace twists more easily.
Cutting the right length matters. A simple rule is to measure about one yard of lace for each inch of finished lanyard.
For example, a 4‑inch keychain needs about 4 yards of string. Always add extra so you don’t run short.
Line up your strands before you begin. If you’re working with two colors, place them side by side and match the ends.
For four‑strand designs, fold two long pieces in half and find the center point. Keep your strings flat and untangled.
A small clip, binder clip, or even tape on a table edge helps hold the middle in place. This makes starting the knot easier and keeps tension even.
Mastering the First Knot
The first knot sets the base for the whole lanyard. Most beginners start with the square knot stitch, also called the box stitch.
This stitch uses four strands crossed over each other in a simple over‑under pattern. To begin, cross two strands into a plus sign and hold them steady at the middle.
Then weave the other two strands over and under in a square pattern. Pull each strand one at a time to tighten.
Check that the knot looks even on all sides. If one strand pulls longer, loosen slightly and adjust before moving on.
Once you master this, you can try other starting knots like the lanyard knot or twist stitch. These add variety but still rely on the same idea: a tight, centered base.
Read our guide, How to Crochet for Total Beginners: Easiest Methods to Learn and start creating cozy, handmade pieces with ease.
Step by Step Lanyard String Designs and Patterns
You can make lanyards in a bunch of ways using plastic lace like rexlace, boondoggle, or gimp. Each design creates a different look and feel, from flat square shapes to twisted spirals or rounded braids.
Some patterns are simple for beginners. Others take more practice and patience.
Box Stitch (Square Stitch)
The box stitch is one of the most common lanyard designs. It creates a flat, square shape that’s sturdy and neat.
You usually use two lengths of rexlace or gimp, crossing them at the center to form the base. To start, fold each strand in half and make a cross.
Hold the center tight and weave the top strand over and under the side strands. Pull all ends evenly to form the first square.
After the first stitch, just keep repeating the same over-under pattern. Always pull the strands tight to keep the edges straight.
The box stitch works well for keychains, zipper pulls, or bag tags. If you want a thicker lanyard, you can add more strands and build a super box stitch. This uses the same weaving method but with extra cords for a wider square.
Spiral Stitch
The spiral stitch looks like a twisted rope. It uses the same weaving as the box stitch but with a small change in tension.
Instead of pulling all strands evenly, you pull one side tighter than the other. This makes the stitch curve into a spiral.
Start with two lengths of lacing, just like the box stitch. Cross them, weave over and under, and pull through. On each stitch, tug one pair of strands a bit more than the other pair. The twist forms on its own as you go.
The spiral stitch is popular because it looks more decorative than the box stitch. It works well with bright rexlace colors or glitter gimp.
You can also mix two colors for a candy-cane look. This design is flexible and not as stiff as the box stitch, so it’s great for bracelets or hanging cords.
Four-Strand Braided Lanyard
The four-strand braid makes a rounded cord that feels smooth in your hand. Unlike box or spiral stitches, this one uses a braiding method instead of weaving.
You need four equal strands of lacing, usually two colors. To begin, tie the strands together at one end and spread them into four separate lines.
Cross the outer right strand over the two middle strands, then tuck it under the left strand. Next, move the left outer strand over the new middle strands and under the far right.
Repeat this pattern in a steady rhythm. The braid will form a round, rope-like lanyard.
Keep your tension even so the braid doesn’t twist unevenly. This design is strong and works well for keychains, whistle cords, or even handles for small bags.
Turk's Head Knot
The Turk’s Head knot is more advanced but creates a detailed, woven pattern. It looks like a braid wrapped around itself in a circular design.
You often see it used on rope fobs, bracelets, or decorative covers on handles. To make it, you need a single long strand of gimp or cord.
Wrap the strand around your fingers or a tube to form a base loop. Then weave the working end over and under the loops in a repeating pattern. This knot requires patience because you have to follow the path carefully. Each pass builds layers, and the design tightens into a woven band.
You may need to adjust and push the strands into place as you go. The Turk’s Head knot stands out for its look and texture.
It feels thicker than a braid and can be expanded into wider versions by adding more passes around the base. It’s a good choice if you want a lanyard that’s decorative as well as functional.
Explore our article, How To Use Diamond Art Tools: Guide for Beginners to learn the basics of sparkling, gem-filled designs.
Creative Applications and Finishing Touches
You can turn simple lanyard string designs into practical items that you use every day. These projects let you combine function with style while giving you room to show your personal taste.
Making Keychains and Zipper Pulls
Keychains and zipper pulls are some of the quickest projects you can make with lanyard string. They use short cords, so you’ll finish fast and won’t waste much material.
For keychains, just start with a basic box or spiral stitch. A braid about 3 or 4 inches long usually does the trick.
Clip on a split ring or a swivel hook at the top. That way, you can attach it to your keys or a bag without fuss.
Zipper pulls are super handy for backpacks or jackets. Keep them small—2 or 3 inches—so they don’t snag on anything.
Just tie a simple knot at the end. It makes grabbing the zipper way easier.
Tip: Try glow-in-the-dark or reflective cord for zipper pulls. It’s a small thing, but it helps you spot your bag at night.
|
Project |
Best Length |
Hardware Needed |
|
Keychain |
3–4 in. |
Split ring, swivel hook |
|
Zipper Pull |
2–3 in. |
Small keyring, clip (optional) |
Personalizing with Color and Shape
Colors and shapes really change up how your lanyard looks. Plastic craft lace, also called gimp or boondoggle, comes in nearly every color you can imagine—even neon and metallic.
If you mix two or more colors in one stitch, you’ll get stripes or checker patterns. It’s simple but looks great.
Shape matters, too. A square stitch gives you a flat, classic look, while a round stitch feels smooth and rope-like.
Diamond and cobra stitches add some extra thickness and texture. Pick the shape that feels right in your hand.
Want something bold? Alternate colors every few rows. For a softer vibe, use different shades from the same color family.
This way, you can match your keychain or zipper pull to your bag, jacket, or whatever gear you like.
Example: Try a spiral stitch with red and black strands for a twisted pattern that pops on any backpack.
Attaching Hardware and Closures
How you finish your lanyard string project makes a difference. Good hardware keeps your work secure and actually useful.
For keychains, most people use a split ring. If you want to clip it on and off, go for a lobster clasp.
Zipper pulls work best with a small keyring or snap hook. They’re easy to attach and don’t get in the way.
Thread the starting loops of your lanyard through the ring or hook before you start weaving. That locks the cord in place right from the beginning.
At the end, tie a tight knot and trim any extra cord. If you want a tidy finish, carefully melt the cut ends with a lighter—just be careful and do it in a ventilated spot.
This last step keeps the cord from fraying and gives your project a neat, finished look.
Also read our guide, How To Screen Print at Home: Complete Beginners Guide to learn how to print your own designs with simple tools.
Final Thoughts
Mastering a step by step lanyard string design is about practice and having fun with colors and patterns. Once you know the basics, you can mix shades, try new stitches, and even create your own designs.
Lanyards are perfect as gifts, keychains, or quick projects to use up extra string. The more you practice, the cleaner and more polished your work will look. Since each design is small, you’ll see results fast.
Want another fun craft to try? Read our article: How to Crochet a Beanie: Simple Guide & Free Patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some beginner-friendly patterns for crafting lanyards with two strings?
The box stitch and spiral stitch are the go-to patterns for beginners. The box stitch makes a square shape, and the spiral stitch twists as you go. Both are pretty easy to learn if you just keep weaving the two strings together.
How to start lanyard 2 string?
Cut two equal pieces of plastic lacing, usually about 3 feet each. Cross them into a plus sign, then fold one over the other to make the first loop.
Pull the ends through and tighten it up. That locks your base square in place.
How to style your lanyard?
Try adding beads between stitches for extra flair. Mixing neon and solid colors can really make the design stand out.
Some people use glow-in-the-dark cord or metallic thread if they want something unique. Why not experiment and see what you like?
How to finish a lanyard for beginners?
When you reach your desired length, pull the strings tight. Tie a double knot to secure everything in place.
Trim the extra cord with scissors, but leave a small tail. If you're using plastic lacing, you can carefully melt the tips (with an adult's help) to prevent fraying.
