Introduction: How to Make a Box Knot Keychain Out of Paracord

By Paracord guild

The box knot keychain (also called the square knot keychain) is probably one of the most popular keychains you can make. It has a square look and holds a decent amount of paracord, which can be used in different situations.

For this project you will need a pair of scissors (not two scissors, just one :) ), two pieces of paracord (of the same or different color) and a lighter with which you can singe the edges off the ends of the paracord and a key ring with which to connect the keychain and the key.

The paracord type I recommend is 550 paracord. It is widely used and the easiest to get your hands on, very durable and cheap.

The keychain is made using the box knot. I feature a simplified version of it in this tutorial. T

You can find an extended tutorial at paracordguild.com.

Tips you should follow to get a good looking box knot keychain:
- keep your knots consistent
- when tightening, pull two cords to one side, two to the other
- tighten all four cords firmly
- when melting the ends of the paracord, it is advisable to avoid and drops of melted paracord to drop onto your skin. It is painful and if you manage to die from the burns, people will talk behind your back.
- for keychains, using at least one bright color is advisable so you can find your keys easier
- if you can, use glow in the dark paracord to make your keychain glow in the dark

The basic process of making the box knot keychain involves folding your cords into a form of braid. It is done fast, so this project will take only a few minutes to make for an experienced paracord crafter and a few more for a beginner.
I must stress that you should invest some time and adjust and inconsistencies in the look of your knots as you work on the keychain. If you get sloppy, the result will not be as good as it could be. So take it slow, make consistent knots and make sure you have everything the way you want it.

Now let's try making a square knot keychain.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

You will need:
- scissors
- a lighter
- paracord 550
- a keyring

Step 2: Set Up the Cords and Keyring

Cross two pieces of paracord halfway, making an equally sided cross. Add a keyring onto one of the cords.

Step 3: Cross the Cord

Cross the cord as shown in the image.

Step 4: Pull One of the Cords Over and Under

Pull the bottom cord over the first horizontal cord and under the second.

Step 5: Pull the Top Cord Over the First Cord, Under the Second

As shown on the image, pull the top cord over the first horizontal cord and under the second.

Step 6: Tighten the Knot

Pull firmly on the cords to tighten the knot. remember to pull two cords at a time for maximum tightening.

Step 7: Cross the Cords Again, Just Like at the Start.

Repeat the same process just like at the start. This is all we will be doing!

Step 8: Pull the Top and Bottom Cord Over and Under

Pull just like it is shown on the image.

Step 9: And Tighten

An easy sequence to remember. Repeat until you reach a desired length!

Step 10: Cut the Ends and Melt Them

When you reach a desired length, remove the extra cordage and melt the ends onto the keychain.

Step 11: Finished!

Enjoy your keychain.