Friendship Day 2026: The cutest DIY friendship bands to make for your best friend

Before friendship bands became something you could order online, most of us made them ourselves. Even if you're making bracelets for the first time or returning to a hobby you left behind after school, with a few basic knots and some thread, you can create beautiful friendship bands at home. 

Before you start: Learn these four basic knots

Almost every friendship bracelet is built using a few simple knots. Once you know these, you can mix and match them to create dozens of different patterns.

Forward Knot (FK)

• Take the working thread (the one on the left).
• Make the shape of the number 4 over the thread next to it.
• Pull the end through the loop.
• Tighten.
• Repeat once more on the same thread. The working thread moves from left to right.

Backward Knot (BK)

This is the opposite.

• Make a backward "4" shape.
• Pull the thread through.
• Tighten.
• Repeat. The working thread moves from right to left.

Forward-Backward Knot (FBK)

• Make one forward knot.
• Then make one backward knot.

Backward-Forward Knot (BFK)

• Make one backward knot.
• Follow it with one forward knot.

Kumihimo bracelet

If you've admired perfectly round braided bracelets online, chances are you've seen a Kumihimo design.

This traditional Japanese braiding style creates a smooth, rope-like bracelet using multiple strands of embroidery thread or satin cord. The finished band looks neat, colourful and slightly thicker than a regular friendship bracelet. You can stick to two colours for a clean look or combine several shades for a vibrant finish.

Beaded name bracelet

A beaded name bracelet features alphabet beads spelling out your friend's name, nickname or even an inside joke. Pair them with colourful seed beads, metallic spacers or pastel beads to make the design your own. You can even add star, flower and other beads 

Fabric scrap bracelet

Instead of throwing old scarves and printed fabrict away, turn narrow strips into a friendship bracelet. Braided or twisted fabric creates a soft, textured band with a relaxed, handmade feel. Mixing different prints and colours gives each bracelet a one-of-a-kind look. You can also include charms to make it more personalised.

Minimalist wax cord bracelet

A wax cord bracelet keeps things understated with a slim cord in shades like black, beige, olive green or brown. Add a tiny charm, stone, a single bead or a simple sliding knot, and you've got a bracelet that looks more like everyday jewellery than a traditional friendship band.

It's perfect for friends who prefer subtle accessories.

Spiral friendship bracelet

The spiral bracelet is a classic that's instantly recognisable. Made using repeated knots, the threads naturally twist around one another, creating a candy-cane effect. Bright contrasting colours make the spiral stand out, while softer shades give it a more muted appearance.

It's one of the easiest patterns for beginners but still looks impressive when finished.

Morse code bracelet

A Morse code bracelet uses tiny beads in different colours or sizes to represent dots and dashes, spelling out a hidden word or phrase. It could be your friend's initials, a favourite word or a meaningful date.

Rainbow friendship bracelet

Using threads in bright rainbow shades, this bracelet is perfect for Friendship Day celebrations. Whether you choose bold stripes, chevrons or a braided pattern, the finished bracelet is cheerful, eye-catching and instantly brings back childhood memories of Friendship Day celebrations.

It's also one of the easiest designs to customise with different colour combinations.

Years later, your friend probably won't remember whether you used wax cord or embroidery thread. But they might remember that you took the time to make something just for them.