Elastic cord bracelets have a bad rap. Cheap, flimsy, childish ... you've probably heard them described that way at one point or another. But is it always true? With all the pretty stretchy cord bracelets in the stores lately (see the one that costs $1,248 at Anthropologie or this $150 gemstone one at Nordstrom), I've been thinking about making them again after a long hiatus.
Why Make Elastic Bracelets?
Despite their potential problems, there are good reasons to make elastic cord bracelets. This type of bracelet is:
- an easy-to-make project for beginners
- inexpensive to make
- a fun way to use up small quantities of random beads
- quick to make (good last minute gifts!)
- a good choice for stacking
- easy to wear (bracelets with traditional clasps can be difficult to put on yourself, plus one size fits most)
- in style right now, especially with tassels and charms
How To Make Longer Lasting Bracelets
It's true that elastic will wear out over time and jewelry made with it will break eventually. If you want to make an heirloom-quality bracelet to be handed down through the generations, elastic is not your best choice. But if you want to make something on trend just for one season, elastic can be a good option. You can help make a stretchy bracelet that lasts a little longer by using one or more tricks (not necessarily all of them), depending upon your specific project:
- use a good quality elastic cord
- string beads on doubled cord
- use lightweight beads
- use beads with smooth edges around their holes
- knot in between beads
- use a surgeon's knot, double knot, or other strong knot
- glue the knots
- cover the knots with beads
Made any stretchy cord bracelets lately? Why or why not?
See Pinterest for a larger version of this step-by-step tutorial of my Lotus Tassel Bracelets with photos.