Why I Started Making Safer Lanyards (And Accidentally Became the Short Lanyard Queen)
Couldn't find a lanyard that didn’t suck, so I made one. Now I make a lot. And they don’t suck. You’re welcome.
I didn’t mean to become a walking PSA for lanyard safety.But let’s be honest: the standard-issue lanyards out there?Too long. Too twisty. Too chokey. It’s like they were made for giraffes, not kindergarteners or people with sensory issues or, you know, necks.
I needed something shorter. Safer. Less likely to tangle in a backpack zipper or swing into someone’s face like a slap bracelet from hell. But could I find one? Of course not.
So, like any good DIY gremlin with a glue gun and a dream, I made my own. And when people saw it, they wanted one too. And then they wanted them in reflective neon for early school walks. And with double safety releases. And in custom lengths because — again — we are not all the same size, thank you very much.
Safety + Sass
The ones I sell now are adjustable, custom-length, and designed with comfort in mind. They don’t choke, they don’t dangle awkwardly, and they look a whole lot cooler than the standard “corporate swag” badge lanyards. They come in colors people actually want, and lengths that don’t turn you into a tangled piñata.
They're especially good for:
Littles walking to school in the dark
Neurodivergent folks who need tactile comfort & predictability
Teachers, paras, and anyone tired of losing their keys between classrooms
People who like their accessories to work and look good
From Candles to Cord Clips
This may seem random next to my beeswax candles and wax melts, but honestly? It fits. Because whether it’s fire or function — I make the things I wish existed. Then I share them, just in case you need them too.
You can find my lanyards on Etsy, or (if you’re local to WA) at the Seattle Outlet Mall in Auburn on most weekends. Usually near the food court. Because I know what I’m about.
https://pnwdesignsmith.etsy.com