Two double braids from the 17th C with a wonderful “unorthodox” loop exchange method that goes back to the 12th Century, if not further. This exchange move is so easy to do with REALLY cool results! It produces unusual loop braids that may be unique to Europe. Videos for my solo braider method, illustration for the traditional team braiding method.
A tutorial for a non-traditional 12-loop braid with an unusual number of loop-transfers: Five! You might call it a Double-and-a-bit-more Braid. The video tutorial is for my solo-braider method. Also text instructions for an easier “odd” braid – the 7-loop Square-and-a-half braid of 3 loop transfers – for the left braider of a team making the larger 12-loop braid. (The smaller braid has some fun asymmetrical color-patterns of its own!)
Why waste two of our ten fingers? Use thumbs to make even bigger and better braids! This was done historically in (at least) China and Finland, as well as by my first loop braiding teacher here in the U.S.
Loop Braiding 