Lanyards, simply described, are a way of securing small items to the body, to avoid misplacing or dropping them. A lanyard is generally a woven extension of string or other material that most often is secured about the neck or wrist on one end, and to the small items in question on the other.
Among their many uses, lanyards are popular for holding keys, nametags or identification badges, cell phones, whistles, and countless other items. Depending on the intended item, and the intended style, each lanyard will likely have small variances. For instance, a lanyard keychain will hold a key ring, while a badge lanyard will feature a plastic housing in which the badge or identification will be carried.
Although multiple types and styles of lanyards are available to be purchased, including generic designs and personalized ones, the best way to find personalized lanyards is by creating them yourself, and because of the multiple materials and styles that lanyards can come in, the amount and variety of designs available to you is limited only to your imagination.
You will always have the option of purchasing cheap lanyards at any corner store; with a homemade lanyard however, it is no longer just an unimportant and easily replaceable accessory, it is a one-of-a-kind designer item. Suddenly, custom lanyards can make a unique and heartfelt gift that is also inexpensive and relatively easy to construct. Consider the following ideas and tips for making your very own personalized lanyards:
For a standard lanyard for around the neck or wrist, you can use multiple types of material. Consider using craft lace, which is a plastic material that is flexible and durable, and available in multiple colors, or friendship bracelet string. Choose colors that you think would go nicely together, and then begin to weave. With three strands, a simple braid pattern is an easy option for starters, and with fours strands, use a simple weave similar to one that would be used for a friendship bracelet.
To Braid:
-Attach and secure the strands on one end with a knot, tape, or both-
-Separate the three strands so that they fan out from the knot at the top-
-Grip the right hand strand and pass it over the center strand, so that it is now in between the others-
-Grip the left hand strand and pass it over the new center strand (formerly the right hand strand)-
-Continue this process from right to left, and watch the braid begin to form
More complicated weaves are hard to describe without pictures or demonstrations, but if you are interested in interesting and challenging weaving patterns for lanyards, consider visiting the following site, which offers step-by-step instructions, along with photographs illustrating each step: http://www.bluemoon.net/~dotoran/
Once you have reached the desired length for your lanyard, consider what it will be used for. If you want to hold keys, then work a simple and inexpensive key ring onto the lanyard, by bringing it to the middle of the cord and tying a knot to keep it in place. For a more attractive securing feature, run both end of the cord through a bead, to punctuate and keep the ring in place without a knot.
You can use this key ring for other types of lanyard as well. Attach a small hook or clip to the ring, which can be used to attach name cards, carabineers, and countless other small items. Secure the loose ends of the woven cord with a simple knot or with a clasp. Clasps, beads, and key rings can all be purchased in bulk at arts and crafts or beading stores.
For a classier design of lanyard, ideal for holding eyeglasses or other delicate items, consider constructing beaded lanyards. The possibilities for patterns, textures, and designs are limitless, and the supplies can be purchased at the same location where you would buy the other necessary accessories for making homemade lanyards.
If you do not achieve the result that you want immediately, remember that practice makes perfect, and as with any skill, it may take a few attempts to create the perfect lanyard. Enjoy the creative process, and watching your own designs come to life.
