How to Braid Embroidery Floss
Embroidery floss is any of several types of yarn intended specifically for embroidery. It also has other uses in craft projects such as doll's hair, necklaces and bracelets. Many uses of embroidery floss require you to braid several strands together.
Things You Need:
- Embroidery floss
- Pin
- Pincushion
- Scissors
Instructions:
Hold three strands of embroidery floss together and adjust each strand so that the ends align with each other. Tie the ends of the strands in an overhand knot to keep them together.
Place a pin through the knot and into a pincushion to hold it in place. This allows you to keep the strands taut and make a tight braid.
Pull the free ends of embroidery strands apart. One strand should lead directly away from the pin, one strand should lead from the left of the pin at a 45-degree angle and the remaining pin should lead from the right of the pin at a 45-degree angle.
Cross the middle strand with the strand on the right. Pull the center strand to the right while holding the other two strands in place. It is important to keep embroidery floss separated while braiding it, as this type of yarn is relatively thin and can easily become tangled.
Pull the strand on the left so that it cross the strand currently in the center. Pull the center strand over to the left while holding the other two strands in place.
Repeat steps 4 and 5 to produce a length of braided embroidery floss that is longer than what you need. Pull the strands taut at each iteration to ensure tight braiding.
Tie the free ends of the embroidery floss together in an overhand knot to keep them from getting tangled. Trim the excess lengths of floss with a pair of scissors.