How to Braid Parachute Cord Mecates

Mecates can be made out of many different materials. The traditional mecates are made out of horse hair, but others have been made out of cotton, nylon, poly rope and parachute cord. The horse responds to the feeling of the rope on its neck, which trains the horse to neck rein. Braided mecates can be made anywhere from four strands and more, with the average being an eight strand.

Things You'll Need

  • 4 strings parachute cord (paracord), 3 times the length of the mecate
  • Leather popper
  • Keychain ring or similar type ring
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Instructions

    • 1

      Thread the four strings through the ring so you double them over to create eight strings. This ring will allow you to keep the strings tight and the braid neat.

    • 2

      Hold two strings with one hand and the other two strings with the other hand. Cross one of the two sets to the left to create an "X."

    • 3

      Pass the top left strand behind the two strands and between the two pair on the left. The strand that was just used will end up on the bottom right.

    • 4

      Braid in an under two, over two pattern.

    • 5

      Finish the braid and loop a popper. Tie off the braid.