How to Braid Nylon Rope Collars

Dog collars are available for purchase at pet supply stores, veterinary offices and even major chain stores. However, if you have a puppy that will grow into a large dog very quickly, you may want to make your own collars for your pet until it reaches adult size. You may also want to design your own braided collar in specific colors. Braiding your own dog collar out of nylon rope is fun, easy and economical.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Thin nylon rope
  • Scissors
  • Two small metal rings
  • Buckle
  • Pliers
  • Matches
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose and cut the nylon. Braiding shortens rope by at least one-third, so measure your dog's neck and add half that measurement to determine nylon rope length and add 2 to 3 inches extra for collar slack. If your dog's neck is 12 inches around, for instance, the braiding rope should be at least 18 inches long plus 2 to 3 inches, for a 20- to 21-inch collar. Double that final measurement, because you will fold the rope in half to braid. For thick nylon rope 1/4-inch in diameter or wider, use three lengths (six strands of braiding). For nylon rope less than 1/4-inch in diameter, use six lengths (12 strands of braiding).

    • 2

      Fold all the pieces of nylon in half to begin the braiding process. Hold the center of all pieces in your hand, and insert them through one metal ring or the non-hooking side of a buckle. Fold the center loops over the metal ring, and thread the ends of all rope lengths through the rope loop tightly to secure. Divide the ropes into three even sections and begin braiding, right section over middle section, left section over new middle section. Repeat to end.

    • 3

      Loop all rope ends through another metal ring for a slip collar once the braiding has reached your desired length. Tie with a bowline knot. For a buckle collar, tie a tight half knot in the end and open a small metal ring with a pair of pliers. Slip one end of the metal ring through your braiding 2 inches down from your buckle. For both kinds of collars, make the nylon rope ends ravel-proof by melting them with a lighted match.