Why This Skill Matters in an Emergency or Survival Situation

Adding paracord to water bottles and koozies is a valuable skill for survival situations. Paracord can serve multiple purposes, such as securing items, creating makeshift shelters, or even as a signaling tool. In an emergency, having a water bottle with a paracord handle can be crucial for carrying water over rough terrain or attaching it to a backpack for hands-free carrying. Additionally, paracord can be used to repair gear or create emergency tools, making it a versatile addition to any survival kit.

What You Need

Materials

  • Paracord (3/8 inch diameter is ideal)
  • Water bottles or koozies
  • Scissors
  • Tape measure or ruler
  • Optional: heat source (lighter or match) for melting ends

Tools

  • None required, but scissors are essential for cutting the paracord

Knowledge

  • Basic knot-tying skills
  • Understanding of paracord’s strength and uses

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Measure and Cut Paracord

Measure the circumference of your water bottle or koozie. Add extra length for knots and any additional use you might have for the paracord. Cut the paracord to the measured length plus about 6 inches.

Step 2: Create the Handle

  1. Start by threading the paracord through the top of the water bottle or koozie. If using a koozie, make sure it’s open enough to allow the paracord through.
  2. Tie a simple overhand knot at the top of the bottle or koozie to secure the paracord in place.
  3. Continue threading the paracord around the bottle or koozie, making sure to keep the tension consistent. You can make the handle as thick or thin as you prefer.
  4. Once you reach the desired thickness, tie another overhand knot to secure the end of the paracord.
  5. Trim the excess paracord close to the knots.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

If you want to ensure the paracord won’t fray, you can melt the ends with a lighter or match. Be careful not to burn the paracord.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

  • Not Measuring Properly: Always measure the circumference of the water bottle or koozie before cutting the paracord. This ensures you have enough length but not too much.
  • Fraying Ends: To prevent the paracord from fraying, either melt the ends with a flame or tie a small knot close to the cut end.
  • Loose Knots: Make sure to tie the knots tightly to prevent the paracord from slipping off the water bottle or koozie.

Variations, Tips, and Related Techniques

  • Multiple Colors: Use different colored paracords to create a unique and visually appealing handle.
  • Decorative Knots: Incorporate decorative knots like the monkey fist or cobra knot to add strength and style to your paracord handle.
  • Emergency Use: In a survival situation, the paracord can be used for securing items, making a shelter, or as a signaling tool.
  • Additional Uses: Consider using paracord to create a lanyard for your whistle or compass, or to secure your gear to your backpack.
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