How to Make a Braided Leather Bracelet

Last Updated: November 5, 2020 Approved

A braided leather bracelet looks elegant and earthy at the same time. It's not hard to make your own, and if you're already used to braiding, you'll find this project very straightforward. Once the bracelet has been made using five leather cords, you can add ornaments such as metallic flower decorations, beads or fabric flowers, to add a very personal touch.

Steps

1
Select five leather cords. You'll need to have three of one color and two of another color. Bind the cords together with a crimp or wire. Add or attach a loop to enable the bracelet to be linked together for wearing.
2
Stick the end of the bound cords on a flat surface with adhesive tape. This will make the braiding easier, as the cords won't move. Unfold the five cords and arrange them alternately.
3
Braid the cords. Starting with the left outermost cord, bring it over the cord to its right and under the center cord. Then, with the right outermost cord, bring it over the cord to its left and under the center cord.
4
Continue braiding following this pattern. Braid the cords to the length that will fit your wrist.
5
Bind the end with a crimp or wire. Link a lobster clasp to the crimp or wire.
6
Cut off any excess cord.
7
Finished. You can now glue or stitch on ornamentation as desired, such as metallic flowers, fabric flowers, beads, etc. Ensure that they are firmly attached before wearing.
- Optional: String a bell or any other trinket to a short chain. Link the chain to one end.

Community Q&A

Question

How long should I cut the cords in the beginning?

T. Chinsen

Top Answerer

Start with 3x the wrist measurement. There needs to be enough to cord to be able to braid up to the length of the wrist. Each twist of the braid requires about 0.25" (0.6 cm) added to the wrist length.