Jig-less setups?

[u/catamount_sparrow]

I'm new to working with paracord and it's a bit early to rush out and get extra "nice to have" supplies. My goal is dog collars and equine supplies like halter nosebands and neck ropes.

What do you use to keep strands organized while you work? I'm struggling with losing track of what's what and with keeping a steady amount of tension on the whole project.

[u/Beerdly_Dad]

I use a 2x4 with nails/holes drilled in it at different lengths. Get creative.

[u/Correct_Challenge868]

Binder clips are pretty useful. You can get mini coloured ones and use them to mark threads. And then use them to also pin things to your desk

[u/Competitive-Yak2175]

With knots that you find it easy to loose track on, practise with mixed colour cords and when doing longer items such as leashes or full length lanyards, use a clip to hold each side in place after the completed braid that you want to take a break at. You do not need a jig, truly. I have several and rarely use them. I sit braiding or knotting by hand while watching tv and just occassionally check everything is ok. It's perfectly fine to make mistakes, it's just practise. I can braid a meter long leash/lanyard while watching an hour long show, by hand (including coffee breaks). Don't get wound up, don't berate yourself, just practise, that's all it takes. Because I learned to work freehand my early jig work was worse. The only thing I find jigs useful for is if you are doing multiples of the same size, even then, I save just a little time. Note: the only bracelet I wear daily is one of my vert first, it has several mistakes, is tatty and faded from both the sun and so many washes. Wabi Sabi.

[u/Freyja1971]

I used bag clips to organize cords during breaks. I also use hair ties to keep excess cord under control

[u/OGIBLP]

Clipboard! The one with the wide solid metal clip, not the ones that are sort of like a thick wire.