GIMP BRAIDING PROJECTS
Written and Illustrated by Charles E. White, Jr.
For the convenience of craftsmen, we have assembled in this booklet the directions for many of the popular gimp projects, with suggestions for a multitude of patterns which can be made with any desired color combination. These directions have been completely illustrated in color, so that every step can readily be understood, since the true simplicity of braiding has often been obscured by complicated instructions and illustrations.
The material itself is a special coated tape made in various colors and shapes. Standard gimp and Titan lacing are flat and 3/32″ wide. The special ¼″ wide gimp also is flat. Round or cord gimp is available in either 3/64″ or 5/64″ diameters. These various types of gimp can be purchased by the yard, though they are much less expensive when secured by the spool. Leather lacings may be used in place of gimp where particular effects are desired.
General Directions
Standard and wide gimps have a seam on one face. Always start braiding with this seam next to the core and be careful at the edge of the braid to fold each strand so that the seam remains inside or on the back of the work. Titan lacing is seamless, and therefore can be used with either surface on the outside of the braid. A well-made article, however, should have no twisted strands, whether made of standard gimp, or of seamless Titan lacing.
In all work with gimp it is essential to keep all the strands pulled tight, and to adjust every row of stitches, in order to ensure that the braid will be uniform.
Long working strands may be tied in coils to keep them from snarling. If it is necessary to splice a strand, slice away half the thickness of the gimp on both of the ends to be joined. Overlap the two ends and lead them through several stitches, then trim off the extra material. (Fig. 1.) If it is necessary to set the braid aside before it is finished, use ordinary paper clips or knot the strands to keep them in place.
Steel Bracelet Cores
The type of core most widely used for bracelet making is formed from a strip of spring steel either ½″ or ¼″ wide. Make a narrow V-shaped slit half the width of the band at about ½″ from one end. (Fig. 2A.) Mark off beyond this cut the circumference of your bracelet (usually 8-9 inches) and make another slit half way through from the opposite side. Clip off the metal about ½″ beyond this second slit. Connect the band as shown, with the ends on the inside of the bracelet. (Figs. 3 and 4.) Set the band on a solid surface and pound with a mallet or hammer until the edges fit smoothly.
Fellowcrafters GIMP BRAIDING PROJECTS
