How to flatbraid an unbroken strip of leather.

Braiding an unbroken piece of leather looks impossible but is really easy once you know the tricks.

My definitions (I don't know what the proper terms are so I gave them my own names) -

Point - The end of the leather farthest away from you
Bottom - The end of the leather closest to you you
Bow - The opening made when you push two strips to the side

Practice on a strip about 2'-3' long.  Longer than that and it gets really confusing as to what is what.  Shorter and it's not worth the trouble.

A leather strip about 3/4" wide is perfect.  Slit it into 1/4" strips being sure to leave 1/4" - 1/2" at the ends.

Work the leather bending it back and fourth until it's soft and flexible.

Step 1 Marking the leather

Hold a pencil or pen like this and use your finger as a guide while marking the leather into thirds.

Comments

[(YOUR N]

Cool

[ironsmiter]

I think I can probably figure it out, bu could you add a few steps for 5, and 7 strand weaving? Triple strand braids are neat, but the ones done with more add a certain wow factor to finished projects :-)

[Re-design]

I've never done the 5 or 7 strand weaving. Can that even be done without the ends free.

I'll try it since I would not have thought the 3 strand could be done.

[ironsmiter]

Can't wait to see how it works for you :-)
don't forget to update the 'ible with a finished project image or two.

Found basic instructions.

http://www.kingsmerecrafts.com/page52.html

Looks complicated, but then again, so did the three strand version :-)

Wonder if it'd work with a 7 strand? probably, but it'd be very tricky t keep stuff straight.

[Re-design]

Great link! I would not have thought it would work that way. Maybe I'll try it one day soon.

[RavingMadStudios]

Very cool. I've been looking for a good braiding technique like this for RavingChild's Halloween costume this year, and this may come in very handy.

[NachoMahma]

. Nice job.