After posting a recent roundup of my favorite DIY bracelets from around the web, I wanted to make some of my own. Obviously I’m reinventing the “DIY bracelet” wheel, but I like the way these turned out using different kinds of ball chain (it’s also a much more simplified version of the leather and bead ones from last February). Anyways, I mixed and matched a bunch of different chains, rhinestone strands and chunky clasps to get a funky, layered bohemian look. Make sure to check out the long-short ball chain towards the bottom….it results in a “twist” effect.
Here’s how I made them……
First, you’ll need leather and/or suede lacing, various rhinestone strands and ball chain, chunky lobster clasps and embroidery thread (which I forgot to include in the photo):
Note: I picked up my lacing and chains at Target Trim in L.A.’s fabric district. Update: I found Ornamentea tonight, and they have a big selection if you want to order online.
Step 1: Cut a length of leather or suede lacing (for a double wrap I cut mine in 16″ lengths). Fold leather/suede lacing over the o-ring side of the lobster clasp as shown. Knot a piece of DMC embroidery thread around the leather to hold it in place:
Step 2: Lay your rhinestone strand or ball chain on top of the lacing and begin wrapping the thread around it to secure them together:
Step 3: As you get about 2″ from the end of the lacing add on your lobster clasp.
Step 4: Fold the lacing under the bracelet and continue wrapping the thread until you reach the end.
Step 5: Using metal cutters, cut the rhinestone strand or ball chain so it ends just before the fold. Knot your thread securely around the last section of chain.
Step 6: Use a needle to thread the end of the thread back down into the bracelet.
A finished bracelet!
I made one of the bracelets using a large ball chain….like the kind you would find on a lamp.
I double wrapped this one with thread to get a different look:
The finished double-wrapped ball chain bracelet:
My favorite is the long-short ball chain:
Because of the alternating sizes of balls, the result is a perfectly consistent twisted look once you wrap it with thread:
All alone they look like your basic wrapped bracelets:
I wear mine all connected together into one large strand…….
…..resulting in a funky, chunky, colorful wrap bracelet:
Click below to check out the leather/bead tutorial.….it involves a little more attention but they are still pretty easy!
My little bohemian Boo wore them as a headband for this photoshoot:
Check out all Lil Blue Boo accessory tutorials here!
Next up…..hex nut accessories. Just kidding.











































































































































