How to Make a Bracelet
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Got a broken snake chain? Here’s how to upcycle it into a bracelet.
I had this broken sterling silver snake chain. They’re notoriously hard to repair, so I thought I’d recycle it into a statement bead bracelet instead. Here are the steps I took to do it. You can follow along and make your own version, either with your own broken snake chain or some you bought.
Please note that this tutorial contains affiliate links for which we may receive a commission.
You’ll need the following tools and materials to make your snake chain bracelet:
1: A broken sterling silver snake chain necklace. I had this one that came from an op-shop with a pendant I liked on it. You can see how kinked and damaged it is.
If you don’t have any broken snake chain, you can get some snake chain here:
2: A sterling silver crimp end.
You can get silver crimp ends here:
3: Two part epoxy glue.
You can get glue here:
4: A skewer to mix and apply the glue.
You can get skewers or toothpicks here:
5: Scrap paper to mix the glue on.
6: A statement bead. I used this moss agate bead.
You can get similar beads here:
7: Cutting pliers.
You can get cutting pliers here:
8: A sterling silver jump ring.
You can get silver jump rings here:
9: Flat nose or parallel pliers for closing the crimp end.
You can get parallel pliers here:
And you can get flat nose pliers here:
Follow these steps to make your own upcycled snake chain bracelet.
1: Assess where your chain is most damaged. I was lucky and the first kink was exactly the length I needed for a bracelet with the clasp on one end. Cut it to the appropriate length with the cutting pliers.
2: Thread the chain through the bead.
3: Squeeze some glue onto the scrap paper and mix it using the skewer.
4: Apply the glue to the crimp and place the chain on it. Set aside until the glue has cured and is dry.
5: Once the glue is dry, use the flat nose pliers to squeeze the crimp end around the end of the chain.
6: Add the jump ring to the crimp using the pliers as the finishing touch!
Now your bracelet is ready to wear! How cool! And you’ll probably have enough chain to make another one like I did. What a cool way to transform something broken into something great.
If you enjoy using upcycled materials in your projects, here are some other tutorials to inspire you:
- Here’s some tutorials that use broken headphones: here, here here and here.
- How to turn two bracelets into a necklace
- How to turn two beaded bracelets into a necklace
- How to transform an old jar into a jewellery container
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Here’s how to make a cool adjustable leather bracelet with gemstone beads on it.
This is so cool! No metal fixings required. All you need are some great gemstone beads and some leather cord. I love this because it is adjustable so it can fit different sized wrists. It could even double as an anklet!
Please note that this tutorial contains affiliate links for which we may receive a commission.
You’ll need the following tools and materials to make your bracelet:
1: A length of 1.2mm thick leather cord. Approx 2.5x the length required to fit around your wrist.
You can get some here:
2: Some cutting pliers or scissors for cutting the cord.
You can get a pair here:
3: Beads with holes big enough to fit on your cord. I used a flat oval jasper bead and a round green agate bead.
You can get some similar beads here:
Green agate beads:
Green jasper beads:
Follow these steps to make your bracelet:
1: Add the beads to the cord.
2: Now it is time to create the first sliding knot.
3: Take the left side of the cord and cross it over the right side.
4: Loop the end over the cord and around it.
5: Create another loop to the left of the first one.
6: Poke the end of the cord through the loops and pull them tight.
7: Repeat steps 3-6 for the other side. If you’re finding it tricky, it can help to flip your work so that you are working on the same side as the first knot… that’s what I did 😉
8: Once you have both knots in place, you can now adjust your bracelet to the desired size. I left the ends of my cord poking out, but you can trim them if you like.
Now your bracelet is ready to wear! How simple but effective? I love it.
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Add a charm bracelet to your collection with this cute bracelet tutorial!
I’ve wanted a traditional charm bracelet for ages, so I decided to add some charms I collected to this sterling silver chain to create my own. This is a simple and fun tutorial that you can follow to add some personalised flair to your jewelry wardrobe. Please note that this tutorial contains affiliate links for which we may receive a commission.
You will need the following tools and materials to make your charm bracelet:
1: A bracelet with large links. I used this silver bracelet.
You can get something similar here:
2: A selection of charms with jump rings attached to the top. I used some vintage and new charms that I collected over time.
You can get charms here:
You can get jump rings here:
3: Parallel and flat nose pliers for opening and closing the jump rings.
You can get parallel pliers here:
And flat nose pliers here:
Here are all the steps to follow to make your charm bracelet:
1: Lay out your charms in the order you want them on your bracelet.
2: Begin adding charms to the bracelet. You can do this by gently opening the jump rings using your pliers, sliding the open ring onto the bracelet and then closing it again using the pliers to secure the charm in place.
3: Continue adding charms until each one is in its desired place.
Now your charm bracelet is finished and ready to wear! So cute. I think I will layer mine with other silver and beaded bracelets.
If you liked this tutorial, you might like these too:
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Here’s how to turn some thick wire into a wiggle bangle!
This bangle is so cute! It is a no-heat way to make a unique bangle that you can wear on its own or stacked with other bracelets. Please note that this tutorial contains affiliate links for which we may receive a small commission.
You’ll need the following tools and materials to make your bangle:
1: A piece of thick wire that is about 30-40 cm long (you might need to trim the end or add extra length depending on how large your bracelet needs to be). I used this copper wire that was 1.7mm in diameter.
You can get some copper wire here:
Or if you like, you can make it out of silver wire, which you can get here:
2: A file and emery paper to smooth the ends of the wire.
You can get a file here:
You can get emery paper here:
3: A pair of parallel pliers.
You can get a pair here:
4: A bracelet mandrel.
You can get one here:
5: A nylon or leather hammer. I used this nylon hammer.
You can get a hammer here:
Follow these steps to make your wiggle bracelet:
1: File and emery the ends of your wire using the jewelry file and emery paper, making sure it is smooth and there are no sharp ends.
2: Use the flat nose pliers to create a triangle shape at one end of the wire.
3: Now grip the wire next to the triangle and push the long end of the wire against the pliers to form an angle.
4: Repeat step 3 again to create a zigzag shape.
5: Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the rest of the wire until you have about 1.5cm left of the wire.
6: Form the shape into a circle and create another triangle at the other end that is slightly open.
7: Slip the open end of the bracelet through the triangle you formed at the start.
8: Using the flat nose pliers again, close the second triangle to close off the bangle.
9: Put the bangle on the mandrel and hammer it into a circular shape, gently adjusting it so that it lies flat.
Once you are happy with the shape, you can take your bracelet off the mandrel and pop it on your wrist! How simple and lovely? I am very fond of this simple bangle design. How will you style yours?
Here’s how the finished bangle looks.
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Love funky jewellery? Here’s how to make a beaded crochet bracelet!
This bracelet is lots of fun! It is made using a fun selection of beads and vibrant thread. With just a crochet hook you can turn these materials into a lovely bracelet!
Please note that this tutorial contains affiliate links.
You’ll need the following tools and materials to make your bracelet:
1: Thread. I used this pink thread.
You can get something similar here:
2: A crochet hook. I used a 3.5mm crochet hook.
You can get one here:
3: A selection of beads. I used this mix of beads from my collection.
You can get pre-mixed beads here:
4: A lobster clasp and jump ring.
You can get a lobster clasp here:
5: Superglue to secure the ends of the bracelet.
6: Scissors.
You can get some here:
Follow these steps to make this crochet bracelet:
1: Add the beads to the string.
2: Tie the end of the string to the clasp and secure with a knot.
3: Create a slip knot and slide it over the crochet hook. Pull it tight around the hook.
4: Take the longer part of the string and loop it over the hook in front of the first loop. Pull the first loop over the second one to start the chain.
5: Do step 4 a few more times until you have the start of a chain.
6: Add the first bead. Do this by pulling the bead up close to the hook and then looping the thread over the top so that the bead is tight against the left side of the hook.
7: Pull the back loop over the one with the bead to secure it in place.
8: Continue making the chain, adding beads as you see fit until you reach a length you like.
9: Cut the thread and add the end through the last loop to secure the end of the chain.
10: Tie the end of the thread around the jump ring.
11: Trim the excess thread and secure the knots with dabs of superglue.
Now your crochet bracelet is finished! How cool and fun?
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This tutorial shows you how to turn two bracelets into one interlocked statement bracelet!
Do you like it when you’re jewellery shows off different textures and colours? Me too! Sometimes it can be fun to hack you’re existing jewellery collection to make something look cute and new. This tutorial shows you how you can turn two of your favourite bracelets into a new statement bracelet! This tutorial is extra great because you don’t need any tools to make it! Please note that this tutorial contains affiliate links for which this website might receive a commission.
You’ll need the following tools and materials to make your interlocked bracelets:
1: All you need for this tutorial is two bracelets. I used a sterling silver chain bracelet and a rainbow beaded bracelet. It is ideal if they are about the same length and each fit your wrist comfortably.
I made this rainbow beaded bracelet but here are some places you can get something similar:
Here are some sterling silver chain bracelets you can purchase:
Follow these steps to make your interlocked statement bracelet:
1: Undo the clasps on each bracelet.
2: Loop the bracelets around each other, folding them in the middle and clasping them together so they are attached.
3: Put it on your wrist, opening one of the clasps and closing it around its closure and the closure on the other bracelet. It can help to add an extender chain to one of the bracelets to make it easier to put on. You can get one here:
And that’s it! This tutorial is great for adding some spice to your existing jewellery collection. What bracelets will you use to make your own interlocked statement piece?
If you want this look but don’t want to use bracelets you already own, you can follow this tutorial that shows you how to make one from scratch: https://www.diyjewelryhub.com/how-to-make-a-beaded-double-loop-bracelet/
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DIY Double Loop Bracelet Tutorial: Create Your Own Stylish bracelet stack
This bracelet gives the illusion that it is two bracelets looped together, but it’s actually an intentional look formed by one bracelet! Use some contrasting beads to create a unique bracelet style that makes a strong statement. Please note that this tutorial contains affiliate links.
You’ll need the following tools and materials to make your double loop bracelet:
1: Some beads. I used some tourmaline chip beads for one side of the bracelet and a mix of glass beads for the other side.
You can get some here:
You can purchased some mixed seed beads here:
2: Two pieces of tiger tail wire long enough to fit your wrist plus about 8cm extra.
You can purchase some here if you don’t already have some:
3: Two jump rings.
You can get some sterling silver jump rings here:
4: Four crimp beads.
You can get some here:
5: A clasp. I used a lobster clasp, but a toggle clasp is also suitable. I prefer toggle clasps for bracelets as they are easier to use by yourself.
Find lobster clasps here:
and toggle clasps here:
6: Pliers. Use your flat nose pliers, round nose or needle nose pliers and cutting pliers.
You can get a set of jewelry pliers here:
Follow these steps to make your double loop bracelet.
1: Take one of the strands of wire and add a crimp bead and jump ring to one end.
2: Loop the end of the wire through the jump ring, depending on the thickness of your wire, you might want to loop your wire through twice like I have here.
3: Thread the end of the wire through the crimp bead and squash it in place using the flat nose pliers.
4: Begin adding beads.
5: Continue beading until the strand is long enough to wear as a bracelet.
6: Add another crimp bead to the end of the wire.
7: Loop the end of the wire around the jump ring attached to the other side. Thread the end of the wire through the crimp bead and last few beads and pull it tight.
8: Squash the crimp bead using the flat nose pliers again.
9: Trim the excess wire. Now you will have a beaded circle.
10: Attach the clasp to the jump ring on the beaded circle you just made. It will attach to the jump ring on the second half of the bracelet you are about to make.
10: Repeat steps One to Six for the second half of the bracelet, using your contrasting beads.
11: Once the second half is fully beaded, loop it through the first beaded half you made.
12: Loop the end of the tiger tail wire through the jump ring at the other end like you did for the first half of the bracelet in step seven.
13: Squash the last crimp bead using flat nose pliers and trim the excess wire using cutting pliers.
14: Here’s where you can fold your bracelet in half and close it, attach the ends of the bracelet by clipping the lobster clasp to the jump ring on the other side.
Now your bracelet is ready to wear!
Here’s another version I made using pearl beads.
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Do you love the look of knit accessories? Why not try knitting your own bangle?
I’ve previously written an i-cord knitted bracelet tutorial, and this one is kind of similar, but the special twist here is the addition of a wire to give the knit structure so it wears more like a bangle than a bracelet! This simple tutorial requires some basic knitting skills, but I think the results are worth it. Please note that this tutorial contains affiliate links.
You’ll need the following tools and materials to make your knitted bangle:
1: Yarn. I used two leftover yarns, a sliver sparkly mohair and a pink boucle style yarn.
Hot pink yarn:
Sparkly black yarn:
2: A piece of wire. I used some recycled copper wire.
3: Pliers. I used my cutting pliers, flat nose pliers and round nose pliers.
4: Scissors.
5: A darning needle.
6: Two double pointed knitting needles. I used some 8mm needles to give myself a chunky i-cord. The width of your i-cord will depend on the size of your yarn and your needles. I recommend using a thick yarn and needles for a bold bangle. Alternatively, if you don’t like knitting, you can use an i-cord knitting machine.
Alternatively, you can try an i-cord knitting machine
Follow these steps to make your own amazing knitted bangle:
1: Hold the two yarns together.
2: Create a slip knot and add it to the needle, pull the yarn to tighten it around the needle.
3: Cast on two more stitches. After casting on the three stitches, slide them to the other end of the needle and begin knitting the first stitch. Knit the next two stitches. This will start to form a tube. You can see this process a bit in this video.
4: After finishing the first row, slide the stitches to the other end of the needle and repeat the knit pattern you did in step 3.
5: Once you have your desired length, it is time to cast off. To cast off, knit the first stitch onto the second needle, then knit the second stitch, after you slide it onto the next needle, take the first stitch and pull it over the second one, you will now have one stitch on each needle. Repeat this again until you only have one stitch left on the second needle.
6: Leaving the final stitch on the needle, trim the end of the yarn leaving a tail.
7: Remove the needle and then thread the tail through the loop and pull it tight. Now your cast off is complete.
8: Take the wire and start pushing it into the middle of the i-cord.
9: Create a loop on one end of the wire.
9: Form the wire into a large circle shape, this will be the form of your bangle.
10: Trim the excess wire using your cutting pliers, leaving a little excess on the end to allow for the loop.
11: Put the second end through the loop you made at the first end, then loop them together using your round nose pliers.
12: Push the knitted i-cord tube around to cover the loops you made. and then tie the two ends together using the tails you left.
13: Use the needle to weave the tails in and further cover the wire. Trim any excess yarn.
Now your knit bangle is finished and ready to wear! How cute is this design? I love it. I’m planning to make a whole stack to add some fun colourful accessories to my wardrobe.
Here are some other fibre focused jewelry tutorials you can follow:
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Here’s a fun one to make! Here’s how to make a beaded wiggle bracelet.
This design is a little tricky to make but it looks amazing! Using some chain, tiger tail wire and beads, you can create an interesting, almost sculptural, bracelet to wear. Please note that this tutorial contains affiliate links.
You’ll need these tools and materials to make this bracelet:
1: Some tiger-tail wire, I used about 1m of wire to make mine. I suggest cutting off slightly more than you need so you don’t run out.
2: A piece of chain that is bracelet length. I used a piece recycled from an old project that I took apart.
3: Two jump rings.
4: Four crimp beads.
5: A clasp.
6: Beads. I used these gold glass beads.
6: Your jewelry pliers. I used my cutting pliers, round nose and flat nose pliers.
Follow these steps to make your own wiggle bracelet:
1: Add two crimp beads and a jump ring to one end of the wire.
2: Loop the end of the wire around the jump ring and back through the crimps.
3: Squash the crimp beads using the flat nose pliers.
4: Attach the wire to the chain using the jump ring.
5: Add some beads to the wire. I added 6 beads.
6: Thread the end of the wire through a link in the chain, I threaded mine through the 7th link of the chain. You want the distance between links to be shorter than the length of each beaded section in order to make an arch shape.
7: Repeat steps 5 and 6, adding another 6 beads and threading it through another link on the opposite side of the chain, 7 links away from the first loop.
8: Keep beading and looping the wire until the chain is early complete, with just one loop to go.
9: Add the second jump ring to the end of the chain.
10: Add the last 6 beads and two crimp beads.
11: Loop the end of the tiger tail wire around the jump ring at the end and back through the crimps and end beads.
12: Squash the crimp beads.
13: Trim the excess wire.
14: Add the clasp to one end of the bracelet to finish it off! Now your fun wiggle bracelet is finished.
Here’s what the wiggle bracelet looks like when it’s being worn!
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Here’s how you can make a fun mixed bead bracelet to show off your personality!
I love the trend towards the craft-core bead explosion designs in jewellery! I’ve shared a few other similar tutorials in the form of mixed bead anklets and necklaces, but this one is a bracelet! This bracelet features a mixture of handmade, recycled and new beads for a unique look! What beads will you use in yours? Please note that this tutorial contains affiliate links.
You’ll need these tools and materials to make your own mixed bead bracelet:
1: Some tiger tail wire cut to a length that will fit your wrist plus a few extra cm.
2: A selection of beads. I used a mix of plastic, clay and glass beads from different sources, recycled, new and handmade.
3: A clasp. I used this gold-tone parrot claw clasp.
4: A jump ring.
5: Four crimp beads.
6: Pliers. I used cutting pliers to cut the wire, flat nose pliers and round nose pliers.
Cutting pliers, round nose pliers, flat nose pliers. Follow these steps to make your crazy mixed bead bracelet:
1: Take the tiger tail wire and add two of the crimp beads.
3: Add the clasp to the wire and loop the end of the wire back through the crimp beads.
4: Squash the crimp beads using the flat nose pliers.
5: Begin adding beads to the wire in random order.
6: Continue adding beads until you get it to the length that feels comfortable around your wrist.
7: Add the second set of crimp beads to the wire.
8: Add the jump ring to the wire.
9: Loop the wire around the jump ring and back through the crimp beads and the first few beads at the end of the bracelet.
10: Pull the wire tight.
11: Squash the crimp beads using the flat nose pliers.
12: Trim the excess wire using the cutting pliers.
13: Now your bracelet is finished and ready to wear!
Here are some other mixed bead, craft-core tutorials for you to follow:
- A crazy mixed bead necklace
- A mixed bead necklace with letter beads
- This special mixed bead shoe chain that can also be worn as an anklet
- A simple mixed bead anklet
If you love the clay bead featured on this bracelet, here’s a tutorial that you can follow to make your own.
