Red Strings

As one might imagine, the finals week of 21 credit term doesn't leave a whole lot of room for crafting, but I did manage to do something small to mark the end of an era in my life and the beginning of a new one.  And since I'm partial to folklore, I thought make a bracelet of red string would be a good touch.

The design is fairly simple- it's like braiding except with multiple strands.  It takes an even amount of strands, and then folds the furthest piece out to the center.  It's a little more symmetrical than a typical braid- and actually resembles the fishtail braids that people do.

Also, in case you're ever unable to braid something small like this all in one go- clothespins work remarkably well at keeping everything in its place for when you return.

It turned out smooth and beautiful, and will serve as a great reminder that I'm taking my first steps into a new adventure.

"There's a thread you follow.  It goes among

things that change.  But it doesn't change.

People wonder about what you are pursuing.

You have to explain about the thread.

But it is hard for others to see.

While you hold it you can't get lost.

Tragedies happen; people get hurt

or die; and you suffer and get old.

Nothing you do can stop time's unfolding.

You don't ever let go of the thread."

-William Stafford, from The Way It Is, 1998

Stay sweet, stay crafty, and stay tuned.