The Red Thread bracelet

red thread is also worn to ward off the evil eye! double good idea i say!!!

a forum post on "red thread" on traditional witchcraft website, just opinions but still interesting reads,

what does the red thread mean to you???

http://www.traditionalwitchcraft.net/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=565

I would like more information on how to do this, so that it is more clear of what you are expecting in my mind thread is very easily broken

The idea of the red "thread" is a symbol--and the physical representation is usually more of a cord--when threads are plaited or 'spun' into cord, they are stronger. Embroidery floss, used with all sis strands are the next best thing, but not as strong as a cord. You can make a cord by taking 3.5-times your desired length of floss, yarn, string, etc, and braiding it in three parts, or about 2.5 times the desired length and making "rope" of it by clamping it down at one end and spinning the other end while keeping it tightly stretched, when it begins to 'buckle' or make little twisty knots where it can't twist anymore without doubling up, you grasp the center and fold the twisting end back to the clamped end and let it wind around itself. If you've got plenty of your original length, you can do it again and get an even thicker twisted cord. Some people do it ritually with three folds, or some other meaningful number. Imbolc is a traditional day to do thread magic rituals and makings for some paths. Some women take a thread from their cords to create a new one for a new 'sister' who is not blood related, to make the connection ritually.

thanks twobluecrows for that excellent tutorial on making cord,

my idea was simple, you can use embroidery floss, simply braided into 1 starnd, but really its as simple as using 1 strand or maybe some wool yarn,

its not meant to be sturdy or strong to last a lifetime but a symbolic goft from one witch to another:))

of course if you want to make yours stronger then its a lovely thing to do,

again i was aiming for something simple that all of our group members can do if they want to join in a group swap.and it requires little money and little crafting skills:)) afterall its the thought that counts!

hope that helps,

blessed be!

and yes, the "thread" is more symbolic, a simple strand of cotton thread wil break all too easily....but a strand of wool yarn perhaps will go quite a bit longer:)))

it need not have a clasp, simply to tie it on is also the idea:))

Would a length of 1/8" red ribbon work?

sure, i dont see why not!!!

i am really happy to see so many of us turning out to swap!!!

unity thru diversity!!!!

yaayy!!!!!!!

just another little note on the hindu practice of wearing the red thread...

A "Kalava" is the sacred Hindu thread also called 'mauli' in hindi. It is worn while performing Hindu rituals like Yajna or Puja. It is tied by a priest on the wrists of all the people attending the prayer ceremony. Kalava is tied on right hand of males and unmarried females, and on left hand of married females. Sometimes it has small yellow parts in between the mostly red string. It sometimes has knots which are tied up while reciting Sanskrit mantras to invoke God and is worn to ward off evil from the person who wears this red thread.

if you find anything pertaining to the red thread please post it here:))) i will also copy and paste for the forum:)))

one last thing, since almost everyone is turning out for this swap, ANYONE FLAKEING OUT will be automatically banned forever from the group, unless of course someone is seriously in a life crisis of some sort, but because you are committing to such an easy swap, please comminucate if there is a problem, if you make no effort to communicate then you WILL be dropped,

sorry but its like that.

everyone should get their bracelet, itas more than just a swap! its a gesture of goodwill among our pagan sisters and brothers/group members...

thats how i see it anyway:))

blessed be!!

ps, i cant type or spell check obviously, thanks for dealing with my dyslexia!

ok everybody, go for it!!!

Here's a Jewish reference to the red thread bracelet

"An invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place, or circumstance. The thread may stretch or tangle, but never break."

....An Ancient Chinese Belief http://www.borninmommysheart.com/Qstore/Qstore.cgi?CMD=009&DEPT=1129344077

and another Chinese site about it

and another and another

Here's a site with lots of perspectives

Thanks for posting the links. Now I've got more ideas :D

I haven't heard from my partner, debbiesp, and I have just PMed her and left a comment. I hope to hear from her and I hope that nothing bad has happened but it looks like that she hasn't been on since April 18th. And its been 11days since the mail deadline. I hope this does not turn into me being flaked, but it might. :(

Partner has contacted me and says its on it's way. :)