Ply Split Braiding

An Ancient Art

Ply-Split braiding dates back nearly 2500 years to the merchant men of Western India. Elaborate braiding of hand-spun wool was used to created harness straps and saddle girths for the camels that carried the wares of their community to the market centers. The most elaborate designs showed prominence in the market. Even today, camel harnesses are decorated with ply-split braids in elaborate patterns.

...in Today's Fibers

The art of ply-split braiding has recently been introduced in the US by a few artisans who have learned the craft of ply-split braiding from the teachings of Peter Collingwood. He has studied the craft and has documented the techniques used by the men of Western India through a number of articles and books.

We are one of only a few artisans in North America who have learned the craft of ply-split braiding and are creating gifts and neckware using various fibers available today. In each item we make, every cord is handmade, using selected colors and fiber types. The cords are then hand-braided, using the ply-split braiding technique, to make each keyring or neckware item.

Ply-split braiding is a hand-weaving technique, using simple tools. A gripfid tool is used to push through the plies (splitting the plies) of a series of cords, to pull a single cord through the middle of the split plies of cord. When varied colors and fibers are used, different designs, patterns, and textures result in the final keyring or neckware item.

We use various natural fibers to create the cords used in ply-split braiding. Bamboo makes a soft texture, while cotton makes a durable braid.

Keyrings make a great gift. Father's day, birthdays, baby showers, and groomsmen gifts are just a few ideas for gifting someone.  

Each keyring is made from cord that we make and weave by hand.  The rings can be used to hold your keys, store discount keycards, or pocket tools.  The length of the braid (12 inches) makes it easy to locate your keyring.  You can allow the braid to hang outside your pocket (for the guys) or purse (for the gals). 

You can personalize your keyring.  Let us know if you have specific colors or color sequence you prefer and if you want us to add letter beads to your braid. 

Neckware is designed to decorate the person, using cord and beadings to represent various personal traits or interests a person has. Native Americans may include specific woods or stones as part of their neckware, while others may choose to include decorative beads or figures, symbolizing something their life.  

Each neckpiece is made from cord that we make and weave by hand.  You can personalize your selection by contacting us when you order.  Let us know if you have specific colors or color sequence you prefer and if you want us to add decorative or symbolic beads to your braid.