Make a Four Strand Braid from 1, 2 or 4 Pieces

Here are two sets of instructions to create a 4 strand weave. Both sets detail the same steps, one using "inner & outer pairs," one giving each strand a number so you can choose the instructions that suit your method of work.

Steps

Inner & Outer Pairs Method

  1. Begin with four equal strands, or two equal strands folded to make four ends. Strands should be about 9" or longer so you have room to work.
  2. Secure the upper end in a binder clip (or similar) to keep your braid from unraveling as you work. Make sure the strands lay flat rather than overlapping in the clip.
  3. Take two strands in your left hand, and two in your right hand. Separate these so that you have a distinct left and right strand in each hand.
  4. Beginning with the inner strands (right strand of left hand, left strand of right hand) cross the left strand above the right, switching each strand to the opposite hand.
  5. You now have two pairs with new inner strands. In each hand, move the left strand over the right strand. You should do this simultaneously, which takes a small amount of practice.
  6. Cross inner strands right above left.
  7. Cross the outer pairs left above right.
  8. Repeat for length of braid.

Numerical Method

  1. Try using four colors to make the numerical pattern easier to follow.
  2. If we number the strands 1-2-3-4, the numerical order would rotate as follows:

Round 4-Part Braid

  1. Clip the upper ends of the 4 strands securely, you'll need both hands.
  2. Start with the outer strand on the right-hand side
  3. Weave the outer strand (on the right) under the two middle strands, then back to the right over the second strand you wove under.
  4. Repeat this "under two, reverse direction, over one" weaving pattern, starting on alternate sides (you'd start with the outer left strand next).
  5. After five or six repetitions you should see the round braid starting to take shape.

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