Paracord Project Length Calculator
Pick a weave pattern and enter your finished project length to get the exact amount of paracord you need — broken down by working strands and core. Covers bracelets, dog collars, lanyards, and more. Nothing uploaded.
Paracord 550 Quick Reference
| Weave | Cord per 1" finished | Strands |
|---|---|---|
| Cobra / Solomon | ~12 in | 2 working + 1 core |
| King Cobra | ~24 in | 2 working + 1 core |
| Fishtail | ~7 in | 2 working |
| Diamond Braid | ~10 in | 4 working + 1 core |
| Box Braid | ~10 in | 4 working |
Learn more: paracord weave patterns and cord length calculations
The cord-per-inch ratio varies by weave and project type
A cobra weave (also called Solomon Bar) uses approximately 1 foot of cord per inch of finished bracelet length. A king cobra - a cobra weave done twice over the same base - uses roughly double that. A fishtail uses significantly more per inch because it is denser. A diamond braid uses about 10 inches per inch of finished length. Buying the wrong amount means either running short mid-project or having metres of leftover cord.
Why the calculator adds a safety buffer and how to use it
A 10-20% safety buffer accounts for the ends you need to melt, fray and tuck, and any errors during weaving. Most experienced crafters use 15%. The calculator shows the approximate spool count if you are buying from standard 50-foot or 100-foot spools. If you specify a cord price per meter, it also calculates the material cost, which helps when comparing different cord suppliers or deciding between single-color and multi-color projects.
Measuring your wrist and understanding project-specific requirements
Wrap a strip of paper around your wrist where you would wear the bracelet, mark where it overlaps, and measure the length. Add 0.5 inches for a comfortable fit. Dog collars have different length requirements (typically 12-18 inches depending on the dog). Lanyards and keychains are shorter (6-12 inches). The calculator includes preset project types that apply the correct cord consumption ratios for each application.
FAQ
How much paracord do I need for a cobra weave bracelet?
About 1 foot per inch of finished length per working strand. For a 7-inch wrist, you need roughly 7 feet per working strand plus a single core strand. Enter your exact wrist size into the calculator for a precise result.
Does the calculator work for dog collars and lanyards?
Yes. Each project type has different cord consumption ratios. Select the project type and the calculator applies the correct multiplier for your chosen weave. Dog collars typically need 12-18 inches of finished length.
What does 550 paracord mean?
550 refers to the minimum breaking strength in pounds (550 lbf). It is the most common paracord for survival bracelets and general outdoor use. The 550 designation comes from military spec MIL-C-5040H.