Summary:
In this blog post, I will tell you how to make a four strand teething toy that is safe and fun for your baby. This toy is especially good for 4 month teething toys because babies at this age love to chew on soft and safe materials. I will give you four strand teething toy instructions that are very easy, even if you’ve never done it before. I’ll also share some good and bad experiences I had while making it. If you’re looking for the best four strand teething toy or even want to try some four strand friendship bracelet patterns for fun, you’re in the right place!
Introduction:
When babies start teething, especially around four months old, they feel pain and want to chew everything. That’s why it’s very helpful to give them teething toys for 4 month old. There are many toys in the market, but some are too hard or unsafe. Making your own four strand teething toy is not only safe but also fun. You can use soft cords and food-grade silicone beads to make a toy that’s both chewable and washable. If you know how to make a four strand bracelet, this will feel similar, just safer and baby-friendly. Even if you don’t, don’t worry. I will show you everything step by step in very simple words.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making a Four Strand Teething Toy
Step 1: Collect Your Supplies
You will need:
- 4 strands of soft cord (like nylon or paracord, about 30 inches each)
- Food-grade silicone beads (safe for babies)
- A clip (to attach the toy to clothes or stroller)
- A lighter or scissors to finish the ends
I enjoyed picking pretty colors for the cords and beads. I chose soft pastel colors that looked cute and calming.
I once picked beads that were too small, and they didn’t fit on the cord. So always check the hole size of the beads first!
Step 2: Secure the Strands
Tie the 4 cords together with a knot at one end. You can tape this end to a table or use a clipboard to hold it in place. This will help you braid easily.
Using a clipboard made the cords stay in place and helped me braid better.
One time I didn’t tie the knot tightly, and the cords kept slipping. That made the braid loose and uneven. So tie the knot tightly at the beginning!
Step 3: Start Braiding – The Four Strand Pattern
Now it’s time to follow the four strand bracelet tutorial.
Here’s how to braid:
- Name the cords from left to right: 1, 2, 3, 4
- Take strand 1 and go over strand 2
- Then go under strand 3
- Then go over strand 4
- Now repeat the same steps, starting from the new left strand
This pattern is the same as some four strand friendship bracelet patterns, but for babies, we are using soft and safe materials.
Once I got the pattern, it became really fun. It looks a little tricky at first, but your hands will learn it quickly.
At first, I kept mixing the strands and forgot the steps. It helped me to write the steps on paper and keep it next to me.
Step 4: Add Beads for Chewing Fun
After every 4–5 braids, you can slide a silicone bead onto the middle strands. This makes the toy fun for chewing and touching.
You can mix big and small beads to make it interesting for the baby.
I added a heart-shaped bead in the center, and my baby kept chewing only that one! It was so cute.
I once forgot to secure the bead and it moved around too much. So now I braid tightly after adding each bead to hold it in place.
Step 5: Finish the Braid and Attach the Clip
Once you’ve braided enough (about 6–8 inches), tie another tight knot at the end. Then use the leftover cords to tie a clip. This clip lets you attach the toy to a baby’s shirt or stroller so it doesn’t fall.
Attaching the clip makes the toy super handy, especially when going outside. You don’t lose it!
I used a low-quality clip once, and it broke. Always use a strong plastic or metal clip that’s safe for babies.
Step 6: Seal the Cord Ends Safely
Use a lighter (with adult help!) to lightly melt the ends of the cord so they don’t fray. Do this very carefully and make sure no part of the toy gets too hot.
Melting the ends made my four strand teething toy look neat and professional.
Once I burned the end too much and the cord became black. So now I just tap the flame lightly and blow it out quickly.
Why This Toy is Great for 4-Month-Old Babies?
Many moms search for teething toys for 4 month old or four months teething ideas. This toy is soft, colorful, and safe for chewing. Plus, it helps develop hand coordination because babies love to hold and explore different textures.
You can even make this a gift! Or make many and sell them.
Creative Ideas You Can Try
- Use soft pastel cords for a baby girl
- Add a wooden teether ring in the center
- Try the same braid style as a four strand friendship bracelet for older siblings
- Make a matching four strand bracelet for the mom or dad!
Final Thoughts
Making a four strand teething toy is easy, fun, and helpful for your baby. You don’t need fancy tools, just some safe cords, beads, and love. If you're a parent, grandparent, or DIY lover, this toy brings joy to both you and the baby. Try different styles and colors, and who knows you might even turn it into a small business!
FAQs
Q1. What age can babies use a four strand teething toy?
Ans: These are great as 4 month teething toys and for babies up to 1 year. Always supervise use.
Q2. Is it safe to make a teething toy at home?
Ans: Yes, if you use food-grade silicone beads and safe cords, it’s totally safe. Avoid small parts and always check the knots.
Q3. Can I wash the toy?
Ans: Yes! Just use warm water and baby-safe soap. Let it air dry before use.
Q4. Can I make a matching four strand bracelet for myself?
Ans: Yes! Just use the same braiding pattern with regular cords and no beads.