Have you ever seen a friendship bracelet? They are usually made from colorful string. The string is woven into pretty patterns or tied into complicated knots.

You might give your friend a bracelet. Or your friend might give a bracelet to you. Either way, they are fun to make and wear.

The tradition of friendship bracelets most likely started in Central America. People would exchange bracelets as a symbol of their friendship. One friend would tie a bracelet on another. The friend receiving the bracelet could make a wish.

According to tradition, people had to wear the bracelets all the time. They were supposed to keep them on until they fell off naturally. If they did this, the wish they made would come true.

Friendship bracelets became popular in the United States in the 1970s. Some people at that time were divided over events happening in the country. To fight the division, many people encouraged peace and love. Friendship bracelets were a colorful symbol of love.

Friendship bracelets are still popular today, especially among tweens and teens. People make their own bracelets and trade them with their friends. There are many patterns to choose to make. Lots of the patterns are based on traditional designs from Central America.

You could try making your own bracelets or making bracelets with your friends. You might want to make matching ones. Don’t forget to make a wish!