Fingerloop Braiding Kits

Fingerloop braiding is a very old technique, with examples that date back to the Bronze Age. It reached a high point in Medieval Europe and England between 1100 and 1600 CE.. Many pattern books survive from the 15th and 16th C. containing patterns ranging in complexity from the most basic to incredibly intricate weavings.  Fingerloop braiding is still used today in the Middle East, South America, Japan and isolated areas of Europe,.

In a time before these items were commercially available, fingerlooped braids served a multitude of utilitarian and decorative uses.  Mostly made in silk, they were turned into points, laces or cords. Braids fastened hose, laced bodices, trimmed sleeves, frogged dress fronts, closed purses and held wax seals to parchment.

Our kits are a fun and easy introduction to this quintessential medieval craft. Each kit contains everything you need to make 3, 6 or 12 projects.  Once you know the patterns, use thread, string or yarn of your choosing to make dress and arming points, pouch strings and cords. Use the technique to make modern key fobs, light pulls, drawstrings, dog and cat collars and leashes, belts, hair ties, shoelaces, and friendship bracelets. The possibilities are nearly endless!



Product Image Item Name- Price
Braiding kit- 'A Lace of iii Bowes'

Braiding kit- 'A Lace of iii Bowes'

Based on a braided object found in Europe which was composed of several 3 loop braids.  A round braid with stacked chevron pattern that is very...
$6.95

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Braiding kit- 'A Round Lace of V Bowes'

Braiding kit- 'A Round Lace of V Bowes'

A braid described in mss Harley 2320 [c. 1450] in the British Library. Produces a tight, square braid with a chevron pattern that is excellent...
$6.95

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Braiding kit- 'This Flat String'

Braiding kit- 'This Flat String'

A variation of the ‘V Bowes’ braid, from a mss. dated 1600.  Produces a strong, flat braid.  When made up in two or more...
$6.95

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