Paracord bracelet patterns are more than just decorative pieces; they’re functional belts, bracelets and keychains that can be an essential tool in an emergency situation.



Many of us remember the paracord bracelet craze that swept the prepper community back in the 2010s. Anybody and everybody was wearing them. It was almost like you weren’t a prepper unless you were rocking an OD green or camo paracord bracelet.

I remember seeing them in gas stations, Walmart, even clothing stores… It’s like they were everywhere. And there’s a simple reason why: they’re cool, unique, inexpensive, and easy to make. (And they’re a great addition for glove boxes and bug out bags).

Before we talk about different paracord bracelet patterns, let’s address one question: what is a paracord bracelet?



A paracord bracelet is a “survival bracelet,” made up of military grade 550 cord or parachute cord. It is lightweight and packs a big punch in any survival situation. The cordage from it can be used to build a shelter, make a splint or used as a tourniquet. You can even unravel the inner strands and use them to fish, the list goes on and on.



Let’s read on to learn how to make these bracelets and find out which pattern uses the most cord.

In This Guide

• Supplies You Need To Make A Paracord Bracelet
  
  
• Pros of Paracord Buckles
  

• Cons of Paracord Buckles
  
  
• Paracord Bracelet Patterns
  
  
• Two Color Bracelet Patterns
  
  
• Three Color Bracelet Patterns
  
  
  
  

Supplies You Need To Make A Paracord Bracelet

To get started on making your own paracord bracelets; you will need paracord, scissors, a lighter (to burn the ends) and a buckle if you choose to use one.


There are a variety of of strength types and different colored paracord to choose from. Be sure to choose a 550 cord or higher if you plan on creating a bracelet as a survival tool. The higher you go the stronger the cord.


A 550 cord is rated to handle a minimum of a static 550 lb. load making it a good choice for emergency use. See the chart below for reference.

Type	Strength	Internal Strands	Diameter
95 Paracord	180 lbs.	1	1.75 mm
275 Paracord	275 lbs.	4	2 mm
550 Paracord	550 lbs.	7	3.9 mm
750 Paracord	750 lbs.	11	3.9 mm

Pros of paracord bracelet buckles:

There are several benefits of using buckles in paracord bracelets. Buckles serve as a quick-release mechanism, making them indispensable for survival scenarios. Additionally, the aesthetic aspect of a well-designed buckle can elevate the entire bracelet, making it not just functional but also a fashion statement.

– Easier to take on and off without having to untie the paracord knot every time.

– Buckles are often more decorative and come in a wide range of colors, materials, and styles.

– Buckles hold paracord bracelets better on your wrist than paracord without buckles.

Cons of paracord bracelet buckles:

However, buckles on paracord bracelets or belts comes with some downsides. While they offer convenience, they can also be the weakest link in a paracord bracelet’s structure. A low-quality buckle could compromise the bracelet’s integrity, leading to potential failure in emergency situations.

– Some people are allergic to metal buckles, so if you’re making a paracord bracelet for someone with metal allergies, it’s best to use paracord without a buckle, or use a plastic buckle.

– The metal buckles can add weight to paracord bracelets, making them less comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

The most common paracord bracelet buckles are made of plastic or metal, and they come in a variety of sizes. Plastic paracord bracelet buckles are the most affordable option and are great for paracord projects that don’t need a lot of strength.



Metal paracord bracelet buckles provide more strength and durability, so they are better suited for paracord projects that require more strength and stability.

At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference. There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to paracord bracelets with buckles or paracord bracelets without buckles. The best place to find buckles for bracelets and belt buckles is here on Amazon.

Paracord Bracelet Patterns

Now, let’s dive into the heart of the topic—paracord bracelet patterns. These designs are more than just visual treats; they can actually influence the bracelet’s strength and usability.

From the popular Cobra pattern to the intricate King Cobra, each offers its own set of advantages and challenges.

Now, here is a list of some of the most popular paracord bracelet patterns.

1. Monkey’s Fist – Okay, this is technically not a bracelet but a simple and effective design. It’s super popular, and an easy way to create a paracord impact weapon or paracord key chain.

This paracord bracelet pattern uses two separate cord lengths to form a knot resembling a monkey’s fist.

H/T to The Weavers of Eternity Paracord for their video: How to Make a Monkey’s Fist with No Marble / Ball Bearing Tutorial

And here’s a great video showing how to make a Mini Monkey’s Fist Stinger Keychain Impact Tool

H/T to The Weavers of Eternity Paracord

2. Cobra – The cobra paracord bracelet patterns are one of the most common. It uses one continuous cord to create an intertwined design.

The cobra stitch gives the paracord bracelet a unique look and can be used in various paracord projects.

TIP: You can also make a 2 color paracord bracelet using this technique, as shown in the video.

Here’s a video from Beadaholique showing the cobra paracord bracelet patterns:

3. Fishtail – The fishtail is a wide paracord bracelet pattern that is easy to make, and it’s great for uses where you want to wear something a bit wider.

It creates a woven paracord pattern that looks similar to a fishtail, hence the name. Like the Cobra, this can also be made into a 2 color bracelet, as shown in the video below.

Here’s a video from The Weavers of Eternity Paracord showing How to Tie a Fishtail Paracord Bracelt:

4. Quick Deploy Millipede – This is designed to be easily undone and deployed in an instant.

H/T to The Weavers of Eternity Paracord for their video A Quick Deploy Paracord Bracelet SO Simple That You Can Make and Unravel It In 1 MINUTE!:

5. Trilobite – This paracord bracelet pattern is similar to the quick deploy millipede, but it’s designed with a trilobite design. It is great for paracord projects that require a quick deployment paracord bracelet pattern.

H/T to Paracord Planet for their Easy Trilobite Paracord Bracelet video:

6. Conquistador – This is a WIDE paracord bracelet pattern. If you’ve got a big wrist or just want to rock a wide bracelet, this is for you.

H/T to The Weavers of Eternity Paracord for their video: How to Make a Conquistador Paracord Bracelet Tutorial

7. Easy Paracord Bracelet – If you just want something simple you can put together that uses one color and looks good… this is a great option.

H/T to KevinBrauer for his great video on Easy Paracord Bracelet Tutorial

Two Color Paracord Bracelet Patterns

Exploring 2-color paracord bracelet patterns opens up new dimensions in design and utility. By using two colors, you not only add visual appeal but also increase the ease of identification for different strands, which can be particularly helpful in emergency situations.

8. Chain Sinnet – The chain sinnet paracord bracelet pattern creates a unique design that resembles a chain. It’s best used for paracord projects that require a light, flexible paracord bracelet.

The video below uses two colors so it’s a good option if you’re looking for something with a little more pop.

Here’s a video from Paracord guild:

9. King Cobra – This paracord bracelet pattern is based off of the cobra stitch, but it’s more intricate and takes a bit longer to finish.

It’s best suited for paracord projects that require strong, durable paracord bracelets. If you like big watches or big bracelets, this is for you. The king cobra pattern uses the most cordage per bracelet making it great for survival situations. This single bracelet can give you 18-20 ft of paracord once taken apart.

I like this video from UniformWarrior showing How to make the King Cobra Paracord Bracelet:

10. Boa Knot – The boa knot paracord bracelet pattern is a bit more complex than some of the other paracord patterns, but it creates an elegant paracord bracelet with its intertwined design.

Here’s a video from BoredParacord showing how to Make the “Intertwined Boa” Paracord Survival Bracelet:

11. Basket Weave – This wide paracord bracelet pattern is perfect for paracord projects that need a wide and strong paracord bracelet.

The basket weave pattern creates a weaving design that looks like it came straight off of the loom. Honestly, I like the look of this one if you’re going for something wide. And this one does not require a buckle.

Here’s a video tutorial from CbyS Paracord and More:

12. Oat Spike Sinnet – This paracord bracelet pattern creates a unique woven design that you won’t see a lot of. Another good option for a 2 color paracord bracelet.

H/T to Paracord Crafts for their video: Oat Spike Sinnet Paracord Bracelet

13. Truck Tire – This is a beefy, wide paracord bracelet with a truck tire design, hence its name. It’s best suited for paracord projects that require a paracord bracelet with a strong and durable construction.

H/T to CbyS Paracord and More for their video: How to Make a „Truck Tires” Paracord Survival Bracelet

14. Katana Wrap – Ok, for all you TWD fans, this is how you would wrap your Katana to look like Michonne’s. It’s pretty cool. And a little finicky, so patience is required.

H/T to The Weavers of Eternity Paracord Bracelet Tutorial (Michonne from the Walking Dead)

Three Color Paracord Bracelet Patterns

Similarly, 3-color paracord bracelet patterns bring additional layers of complexity and visual flair. They allow for creative expressions, like patriotic themes or personalized color combinations, while also offering the functional benefit of color-coded utility.

15. Mated Snake – This is definitely a wider bracelet so if you’re looking for something a big bigger, a bit unique and want to use 3 colors. And it’s pretty simple.

H/T to Paracord guild for their video: 3 color Mated snake knot paracord bracelet

16 Tri-Color Solomon – I wouldn’t necessarily call this a wide paracord bracelet, but it’s definitely not thin. Kind of in between. A great option for a middle of the road thickness if you want to use 3 colors.

H/T to Paracord 101 for their video: How to weave the Tri-Color Solomon Paracord Bracelet

Key Takeaways of Paracord Bracelet Patterns

In this guide, we have journeyed through the pros and cons of buckles, delved deep into the realm of paracord bracelet patterns, and explored the rich tapestry of colors and designs available.

All these elements, combined together, help you make an informed decision in your next paracord bracelet project.

No matter which paracord bracelet pattern you choose, it is important to make sure you have the correct bracelet buckle for your project.


The right bracelet buckles will ensure that your paracord projects look great and last for a long time. You can find the best assortment of buckles here on Amazon.

Did I miss one? Is there another design you really like that I forgot to mention? Leave a comment below.