The kumihimo disk

A foam disk with numbered notches. It keeps eight or more strands in order while they are braided, which no pair of hands can do reliably.

How it works

Strands sit in opposing notches. Each move takes a strand from the bottom to the top of the same side, then the disk turns a quarter. The braid forms through the hole in the middle.

Tension

A weight hanging from the braid is what keeps it even. Without one the braid tightens as the arm tires and the diameter changes halfway down.

With paracord

Cord is thicker than the threads the disk was designed for, so fewer strands and a larger centre hole. Eight strands of 425 is a comfortable maximum on a standard disk.

Buying

Disks are listed here: kumihimo disks (https://www.123paracord.co.uk/paracord-supplies-and-accessories/kumihimo-disk/).