Paracord Glasses Lanyard Tutorial

Ever misplaced your glasses, only to frantically search for them moments later? A paracord glasses lanyard might just be the solution you've been looking for. These simple, stylish lanyards ensure your glasses stay within reach, saving you time and stress. Plus, they're easy to make with paracord, a versatile material popular among outdoor enthusiasts. Here, we guide you through the process with detailed, user-friendly instructions.

Before diving into the steps, let's clarify what you'll need. You'll need approximately 5-6 feet of paracord (depending on the desired length of your lanyard), scissors, and a pair of pliers. You'll also need your glasses, of course! Now, let's get started.

Preparing the Paracord

The first step is to prepare your paracord. You'll want to cut a piece that's slightly longer than your desired lanyard length, plus an extra 6-8 inches for the hardware and securing the ends.

If your glasses have silicone or plastic ends that can be threaded, you're set. If not, you'll need to purchase some split rings and lobster clasp hardware to attach the lanyard to your glasses.

Measuring and Cutting the Paracord

Measure your paracord by wrapping it around the back of your glasses, where you'd want the lanyard to sit. Add an extra 6-8 inches for the hardware and securing the ends. Cut the paracord to the desired length.

Pro tip: Ensure you account for bulk at the ends where you'll secure the paracord. It's better to have a little extra length than not enough.

Securing the Ends and Attaching the Hardware

Using a lark's head knot or a simple overhand knot, secure one end of the paracord. This prevents fraying and ensures the lanyard hangs straight.

Next, thread the secured end through your chosen hardware - this could be a pre-existing hole in your glasses or a split ring and lobster clasp. Make sure the knot is tight against the hardware. Now, it's time to start weaving.

Weaving the Paracord Lanyard

The main part of your lanyard is just a flat braid, which is a simple yet elegant design. Here's how to achieve it.

Start by pulling the tails of the paracord through the hardware. You should now have a straight length of paracord with a knot on each end.

Creating the Braid

For a standard flat braid, you'll create four strands. Split your paracord into four equal strands. The middle two will be the core of your braid, and the outer two will wrap around them.

Start by bringing the left outer strand under the left core strand and over the right core strand. Tuck it behind the right core strand. Now, bring the right outer strand under the right core strand and over the left core strand. Tuck it behind the left core strand. You've just completed one stitch in your braid.

Continuing the Braid

Continue this process, using a finger or a spare piece of cardboard as a 'needle' to help guide your paracord. The more even your stitches, the neater your lanyard will look. Keep braiding until you've reached the desired length, leaving enough paracord for the other end.

When you reach the end, householder the remaining paracord around your core strand, and secure it with a half hitch knot or an overhand knot. Thread the secured end back through your hardware. Now, your lanyard is ready to be attached to your glasses!

Attaching the Lanyard to Your Glasses

The final step is to attach your lanyard to your glasses. If you used pre-existing holes, simply thread your lanyard through them. If you used hardware, clip the lobster clasp onto your glasses frame. Make sure the lanyard is tight enough to keep your glasses secure but loose enough to move around comfortably.

And that's it! You've just created a stylish, practical paracord glasses lanyard. Next time you take your glasses off, you can rest easy knowing they'll never be far away. Happy weaving!