Rakhi Bracelets

How to Make a Rakhi

Scissors
Craft foam sheets
Hole punch
Cotton embroidery thread (rayon is harder to work with)
Large needle (optional)
White glue
Beads, sequins, etc. for older kids to work with
Markers for the younger kids



During a centuries-old Hindu festival that honors the sacred tie between brothers and sisters, girls of all ages tie rakhis — decorative thread bracelets often handwoven in red and gold — around their brothers' right wrists. (Moms, older sisters, or grandmothers aid in the tying if little girls' fingers can't manage yet.)


Cut a 1-inch wide strip of a craft foam sheet the length you want your bracelet to be.

Using a hole punch, make one hole 1/4 inch from each end.

Optional: Cut an 18-inch long piece of embroidery thread. Thread it through the eye of the large needle and stitch patterns into the foam bracelet.

Decorate the foam bracelet by gluing on beads and sequins. It might look messy at first, but the glue will become clear as it dries. Beads and sequins may present a choking hazard for younger children, so use markers instead.

Let glue dry for at least 30 minutes, so the beads and decorations don't fall off during the next step.

Measure out three 12-inch strands of embroidery thread, all the same color or different colors. Thread them through the hole at one end of the bracelet and tie a double knot to secure. Braid them and tie another knot at the end to prevent unraveling. Repeat on the other side.

For best results, let dry overnight.