In the summer, kids aren't simply best friends, they're inseparable. To prove to each other that their bond will last even past the start of the school year, your child and her pal can fill up their arms with a batch of friendship bracelets.

To make each bracelet, gather six 24-inch strands of embroidery thread.

1. Hold the strands together with the ends matched up, then tie an overhand knot 1 inch from an end. Tape the knot to a tabletop or anchor it in a closed drawer. Holding the free end, twist the bunch repeatedly in the same direction until it is tightly wound.

2. Pinch the twisted band in the center and fold it in half so that the free end matches up with the knotted end. Release the center--the band will automatically twist back on itself.

3. Slip the ends through the loop (the pinch point) at the opposite end of the band, tie a knot to secure the bracelet, knot again and trim the ends.