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Boondoggle (also known as gimp) is a favorite camp activity that keeps both kids and adults busy, while creating fun and useful items. If you aren't quite sure what it is, check out the movie, Napoleon Dynamite. Napoleon's friend Deb sells homemade boondoggle key chains from a tackle box. They are brightly colored and can include beads for decoration.

To use boondoggle, you need to know basic box weaving techniques. The hardest part is getting the project started. After that it is just necessary to keep your laces straight so that the pattern repeats without mistakes. The most basic pattern is a simple box stitch, but you can make a neat zigzag or spiral pattern simply by varying the number of strands and the direction that you work in. It's a good idea to experiment with these techniques to see the effects they produce.

For older kids, boondoggle is relatively easy to work with, but there are just a couple of things you need to know to have successful projects. First, keep your lacing flat and smooth. Check each time you weave the ends to make sure the lace doesn't get twisted around.

Second, pull the lacing really tight as you weave. Each time you do another round, take a moment to pull each lace as tight as you can. This will keep your stitches even and prevent gaps.

Finally, it is a good idea to use contrasting colors. Two colors (four strands) is the easiest way to get started and enables you to keep your pattern straight. Once you get comfortable working with gimp, you can add in additional strands and colors.

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