Making a Safe Paracord Necklace: Avoid Common Hazards

Paracord necklaces have gained popularity due to their versatile and practical nature. Originally used in World War II for parachute lines, paracord is a durable, lightweight nylon rope capable of holding substantial weight. Its resilience and flexibility have made it a favorite material for various crafting projects, including bracelets, keychains, and, of course, necklaces.

However, the strength of paracord can pose a serious safety risk, especially with necklaces, as it may lead to strangulation if the necklace gets caught and doesn't break away. In this article, we will explore how to make a paracord necklace, while incorporating breakaway knots and connectors to prioritize safety. This guide will help you make a practical yet safe accessory.

What Is a Paracord Necklace?

A paracord necklace is essentially a piece of jewelry or functional lanyard made from parachute cord (paracord). The cord's strength and versatility make it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, survivalists, or anyone seeking a durable, customizable necklace. A paracord necklace can serve multiple purposes, including carrying keys, identification badges, whistles, or even survival gear, depending on how it is crafted and worn.

The Appeal of Paracord: Paracord is often praised for its durability, flexibility, and ability to withstand extreme stress. With its origins in parachute suspension lines, the rope has proven its strength and reliability, holding up to 550 pounds (250 kilograms) of weight. Despite its thin profile, paracord is incredibly tough, making it ideal for a wide range of applications, from survival gear to creative crafts like necklaces and lanyards.
Paracord Necklace Designs: Paracord necklaces are highly customizable, allowing creators to experiment with various knots, colors, and designs. You can weave intricate patterns, add beads or charms, and even include survival tools like fire starters or whistles. However, when designing a paracord necklace, especially for children or individuals working in hazardous environments, safety should always come first.

The Importance of Safety in Paracord Necklaces

While paracord's strength is a significant advantage, it can also become a hazard. If a necklace gets caught on something while worn, the paracord's impressive tensile strength can lead to a dangerous situation, particularly around the neck. In environments where one works around heavy machinery, or if making necklaces for children, there's a legitimate concern of strangulation.

To address this, adding breakaway or quick-release mechanisms is essential. This will allow the necklace to detach if it becomes caught, minimizing the risk of injury.

Are Paracord Necklaces Safe to Wear?

Without safety modifications, paracord necklaces can pose risks. As mentioned in the Make Your Paracord Necklaces/Lanyards Safe with Breakaway Knots guide, paracord can withstand far more weight than an average person. For instance, the popular 550 paracord can hold up to 550 pounds, which is more than enough to cause a strangulation hazard if the necklace were to catch on something unexpectedly.

Therefore, incorporating breakaway mechanisms, such as pop barrel connectors or specific knots, ensures the necklace will come apart under pressure, offering a much-needed safety feature. Below, we will explore different methods of making breakaway knots for paracord necklaces.

Step by Step Instructions

Learn how to make a paracord necklace with breakaway knots. Get step-by-step instructions for overhand and double overhand knots, plus safety tips.

Breakaway Knots for Paracord Necklaces

A breakaway knot is a type of knot designed to release under tension. These knots are crucial in making paracord necklaces safe, especially for children or individuals in potentially hazardous environments. While store-bought pop barrel connectors are an option, you can also craft a safe necklace using various breakaway knot techniques.

Here are three popular methods for making breakaway knots that can help ensure your paracord necklace is both stylish and safe.

1. Overhand Knot (Modified Slip Knot)

The overhand knot is one of the simplest knots to make but can be adapted to provide a breakaway feature in a paracord necklace.

How to Tie an Overhand Knot for Breakaway:

Start with One End: On one side of the paracord, tie a basic overhand knot and tighten it.
Form a Fake Slip Knot on the Other End: On the other side, make another overhand knot but don't tighten it fully. Leave some slack, which will make a "slip knot" where the end can pull out easily.
Loop the Knot Through: To fasten the necklace, loop the overhand knot from one side through the slip knot on the other.
Secure Yet Breakable: This arrangement will stay secure during normal wear, but if enough force is applied (such as getting caught on an object), the slip knot will loosen, allowing the necklace to come apart.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Simple and quick to tie, can release under tension.
Cons: The slip knot may come undone more easily than intended, leading to the risk of the necklace falling apart accidentally.

2. Double Overhand Knot with Folded Loop

A slightly more complex but reliable breakaway knot is the double overhand knot. This knot makes a loop that is secure yet will break away under sufficient pressure.

How to Tie a Double Overhand Knot for Breakaway:

Make a Loop: Begin by making a loop in the paracord.
Tie a Double Overhand Knot: Tie the loop to itself using a double overhand knot, ensuring it is tight.
Fold the End: On the opposite end, fold the cord back on itself before passing it through the loop.
Tighten and Test: Cinch everything down tightly. When you pull the folded end, it should catch slightly but pull through with enough force.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Stronger than a single overhand knot, reliable for securing items like keys or ID badges.
Cons: Can take a little more effort to untie if too tight.

3. Low Profile Double Overhand Knot

For a more discreet look, a low-profile double overhand knot offers safety and minimal visibility.

How to Tie a Low Profile Double Overhand Knot:

Start with a Fold: Fold one end of the paracord over to make a loop.
Wrap Twice: With the other end, wrap it around the folded loop twice, making a double overhand knot.
Tighten Carefully: Pull everything tight and trim off any excess cord for a cleaner appearance.
Test for Safety: The knot should hold securely during normal use but will release if pulled firmly.

Pros and Cons:

Pros: Low-profile appearance, suitable for more formal or minimalist designs.
Cons: Can require more force to release compared to other knots.

Other Safety Features for Paracord Necklaces

In addition to breakaway knots, there are other safety mechanisms you can incorporate into your paracord necklaces.

Pop Barrel Connectors: Pop barrel connectors are small plastic connectors that can be added to a paracord necklace. These connectors break apart when a certain level of force is applied, making them a reliable safety feature. You can find these connectors in many craft stores, or they can be purchased online.
Magnetic Clasps: Magnetic clasps offer another safe option. These clasps will come apart when enough pressure is applied, but they also provide an easy way to put on and take off the necklace. They are particularly useful for children or anyone with dexterity issues, as the magnets snap together effortlessly.
Velcro Strips: Velcro strips can also be used in paracord projects as a breakaway option. While less common, they provide an adjustable and easy-to-use solution, especially for children's necklaces. Simply attach Velcro to the ends of the cord and fasten them together. When pulled with enough force, the Velcro will come apart, preventing potential accidents.

Conclusion

Paracord necklaces are stylish, functional, and durable accessories that appeal to a wide range of individuals. However, due to the incredible strength of paracord, safety concerns must be addressed, especially in environments where accidents may occur or when crafting for children. By incorporating breakaway knots, pop barrel connectors, or other safety mechanisms, you can ensure that your paracord necklace is not only fashionable but also secure.

Whether you're a seasoned paracord crafter or just starting, using these techniques will give you peace of mind knowing that your paracord necklace will release under pressure, keeping you or your loved ones safe. Make sure to experiment with the different knots discussed above and find the one that works best for your specific project and safety needs.

FAQs About Paracord Necklace

Discover answers to common questions about paracord necklaces, including uses, styles, and benefits. Your go-to guide for all things paracord!

1. What is the purpose of using breakaway knots in a paracord necklace?

Breakaway knots ensure that if the necklace gets caught on something, it will release under pressure, preventing strangulation. Since paracord is extremely strong, breakaway features are essential, especially for children or people in hazardous environments.

2. Can I use alternative materials or connectors for safety?

Yes, alternatives like pop barrel connectors or magnetic clasps can provide an easy way to secure the necklace and ensure it will break away under tension. Some users even suggest using Velcro or a paperclip as a connector.

3. How much force is required to break the knot?

The required force depends on the knot and how it's tied. A double overhand knot typically requires more force, making it secure but still breakable in emergencies. You can adjust the tension for different applications.

4. Are there ways to test the knot's strength before wearing it?

Yes, you can pull on the necklace to test its breakaway strength. Ensure that it releases under reasonable force without coming undone during normal activities like walking or light pulling.

5. Can I make the necklace more discreet or decorative?

Yes, you can use methods like adding ranger beads or tying knots closer to the pendant to make the necklace more decorative or discreet while maintaining safety.

6. Is a breakaway feature necessary if the necklace is long?

Even with longer necklaces, breakaway features are recommended if there’s a chance it could catch on something, especially in environments with heavy machinery or moving parts.

7. What is a pop barrel connector, and how does it work?

A pop barrel connector is a small plastic connector that breaks apart under pressure. It's commonly used in safety lanyards and is available at craft stores or online.

8. How can I adjust a paracord necklace without retying the knots?

Some breakaway designs, like the one with double overhand knots, allow you to adjust the necklace's length by rethreading the cord through the loops or adjusting the tension in the knot.

9. What if I want a decorative yet secure breakaway option?

You can enhance the necklace with decorative elements like ranger beads, which also serve a practical purpose in adjusting the breakaway tension. They can add both function and aesthetic value.

10. Is there a risk of the necklace coming apart too easily?

Some knots, like the modified slip knot, may come apart too easily if not tied properly. Testing the knot's security before regular use is recommended to ensure it stays intact during normal activities.