Braid boards can be made fairly easily.  This one is a 1 x 4 with a narrow hole drilled at the top, through which are pulled three shoelaces.  If I was closer to a craft store I would probably redo it with 3 different colored cords.  If the drill wasn't an option you could hot glue or staple the strings to the top just as easily. 

From braiding practice you eventually graduate to other knotwork projects like beginner friendship bracelets.   Or, doing your sister's hair. : )