Information on the Lanyard Keychain

December 20, 2017

Much like other do-it-yourself projects, making a lanyard keychain can be fun and relaxing all at the same time. Whether you want to make a beaded lanyard for your mom or sisters, or a badge lanyard for your friends, it is easy to make a few of your own. Making a custom lanyard however can be difficult especially for people who are not into arts and crafts.

The Main Material

Before making your first lanyard creation, you should learn about the main material used for such a project. The boondoggle as it is popularly known is the main item in making lanyard chains, bracelets and other crafts project. The extruded plastic also called a plastic lace is a flexible and sturdy material that is very popular in the crafts industry. Made out of polyvinyl chloride, the said material is stronger than any other material used for crafts. In fact, this material is even used for making doors, windows and other products. Shops sometimes call them craftlace or craftstrip. Not many stores call them boondoggle though because the said word originally means "waste of time and money". Other craft shops call them lanyards, gimp, or plastic lace. What is more interesting is that in France, boondoggles are called Scooby Doos for some strange reason.

Elasticity and Durability

For people who want to use lanyards for making key chains or other crafts, do not pull these plastic lacings too hard because they can still break even if they are the most durable material in the arts and crafts industry.

The Different Braids

There are two main types of braids used in producing lanyard keychains; they are the diamond braid and the spiral braid. You can learn how to make these by asking a friend who knows how to braid lanyards or you can look for instructions online. There are many articles that tackle lanyard making.

Craft Ideas

Once you have taught yourself how to do the braiding, you can finally start your lanyard project and give the finished products to friends and relatives. These can be great gifts because they are unique and you made them yourself.

Making vs. Buying

Making your own lanyard keychain, bracelet, necklace or purses can take much of your time that is why most people just buy them from crafts stores. Creating your own keychains however is a great way to pass the time if you are not doing anything. It can also be a great family activity.