DIY watch strap: is it possible to make it?

• August 17, 2019
• A woman's world
• Svetlana Butova

Such a stylish and convenient accessory as a watch needs a practical strap. Some models are sold with straps that are not very comfortable or whose quality leaves much to be desired. In this case, you can make a watch strap with your own hands - this will require a little perseverance and accuracy. As a result, the accessory will acquire an element of individuality.

What material should I use?

The beauty of making your own bracelets or straps is that they can be made from any available materials, as well as taking into account individual requirements and preferences.

An important characteristic of a watch lock is abrasion resistance and strength.

Most often the materials used are:

• Genuine Leather;
• PU leather;
• thick textiles.

There are also options for woven straps. To do this, use both leather laces and satin ribbons, strips of dense fabric. Bracelets decorated with embroidery made of bright threads or beads look interesting and exotic.

Materials from which you can make a watch strap with your own hands

The watch strap is the first thing to fail. If it is leather, then it can rub in the places where the lock is fastened, the edge of the strap stretches, the leather fades, becomes more faded and inconspicuous. All this leads to the fact that even the most expensive watches become visually unattractive. There are two ways:

• buy a new strap in the store;
• make your own leather product.

If option 2 is selected, then for work we will need:

• leather;
• Nairit glue;
• thread impregnated with wax;
• leather paint;
• sharp thin knife;
• hammer;
• a stamp that embosses the leather, thereby giving it a certain texture;
• punch to create a seam.

In order to punch holes, it is necessary to use tools of different diameters. The smaller one is for the thread seam, the larger one is for the hole for the fastener.

Tools and sources for work

Let's look at making a watch strap with your own hands using a leather product as an example. To work you will need:

• glue (PVA is best);
• sandpaper of the smallest grit or polishing device;
• an awl or thick needle to prepare holes for stitching;
• a vice or clothespins for fixing parts.

How best to weave a bracelet

If you are thinking about what kind of jewelry you can make for a man, then we can offer several options for making it yourself.

Key manufacturing points

To make a leather watch strap with your own hands, you first need to measure strips of material of the required length. Please note that the bracelet will consist of at least two layers of leather, which depends on its thickness. To add strength and ensure long-lasting wear of a homemade strap, you can insert a strip of thick fabric between the leather layers. In this case, it is better to punch holes with an awl, since it will be difficult to use a needle.

It is not difficult to calculate the width of the leather strips - you should indent a few millimeters on both sides from the width of the watch mount itself.

To calculate the length of the strap, add 2-3 centimeters to your wrist circumference.

If a strip of leather is bent in half, the bend must be sanded. This place, like the edges of the product, should be slightly thinner than the rest of the fabric.

Next comes the stitching step. To make a watch strap with your own hands so that it is not inferior in quality to expensive purchased models, you need to pay special attention to the seams. Having fixed the strap elements in any convenient way, holding them in a vice or connecting them with clothespins, you should first make holes for the thread with an awl or chisel. To apply holes evenly, you can first draw the future seam or make a groove using a stationery knife.

After punching the holes, the strap can be sewn together. It is important to take strong threads with a silk base for this. This bracelet will last longer. The final chord of the firmware is the processing of the edges. You can clean them using sandpaper or a polisher.

The final touch to making a homemade watch strap is fixing the clasp. You can purchase this element in the accessories department, from a watchmaker, or use buttons or lacing to secure the watch on your hand. It all depends on the scope of the manufacturer’s imagination.

Watch straps

Straps play a very important role in watches. It is recommended to select reliable and comfortable items that will fit the case and dial, and will also serve you for as long as possible. Today, these parts are made from different materials, so every buyer can choose the ideal option.

There are many types of straps designed for watches. They differ not only in their composition, but also in external design. Modern manufacturers produce a huge number of original products. Let's get to know them better.

Today there is a huge range of watches with solid straps . Such options are simple and concise.

Classic belts are made in a minimalist style. They are a single strip of material. It can be either natural or artificial.

Not the last place in the accessories market is occupied by wrist straps . They have an unusual structure.

Such models have a special extension designed for the watch case.

These options are most often chosen by men, since their wrists are larger and wider, but there are also many attractive women's wristbands.

Such non-standard items are also called bracelet straps due to the wide detail. Large cases with equally large dials look especially harmonious on such products.

For many seasons in a row, vintage watch straps have been at the peak of popularity . They have an interesting and attractive design.

As a rule, vintage-style models are made of genuine leather. It can have an antique effect: lightened (as if faded) areas, artificial abrasions, contrast stitching along the edges and clasps made of old metals.

Natural belts decorated with relief patterns and metal details look especially impressive on the wrist.

Narrow models are ideal for a thin lady's hand . They fit perfectly with both large and miniature dials. The main thing is that all the details match each other in style.

Such options look very neat and elegant, but you should be very careful with them. Thin straps, especially when it comes to leather products, wear out much faster and are easier to damage.

Watches with a wide strap look very original . They are sure to attract the attention of passersby due to their impressive size.

Watch cases in wide bracelets rarely extend beyond their limits. As a rule, they are located within the strap.

Not so long ago, such products were part of only the men's wardrobe due to their rough appearance. Ladies did not risk wearing watches with such straps, so as not to spoil their feminine look. But today everything has changed: in store windows you can see a huge number of bright and attractive watches with large bracelets that are ideal for women.

The trend of recent seasons is the double bracelet. It can consist of either two thick or narrower straps. Accessories with similar elements are distinguished by their elegance and sophistication. On a lady's wrist they look very impressive, emphasizing the elegance and natural charm of their owner.

Wristwatches with these details look great in many ladies' looks. They can be worn for a casual walk or work, or for a cocktail or formal event.

Modern brands produce a variety of strap models made from various materials. Each of them has its own distinctive characteristics and certain properties. Let's take a closer look at them.

One of the most popular materials is leather . Today on store shelves you can find a variety of watches with bracelets made of natural or artificial leather.

Such parts are short-lived. They may require replacement no later than in 3-5 years. This is due to the fact that cracks appear on this material over time and begin to crumble. All this negatively affects the appearance of the accessory.

But they gained their wild popularity thanks to their flexibility and plasticity. Many buyers note the feeling of comfort while wearing watches with such straps. They look very expensive and impressive, so they are considered classics that will never leave the fashion ranks.

Bracelets are made from different types of leather. Let's look at them in detail:

• Python leather straps are durable and truly luxurious. They have a scaly structure, which provides products with increased resistance to negative external factors.
• Alligator skin is the most flexible and softest. These straps are as durable as possible. They are very easy to clean. But such parts will cost the buyer a tidy sum.
• Models made from stingray skin have a non-standard texture. You can feel a large number of small tubercles in them.
• The softest and most delicate is the ostrich leather belt. This element is universal: it looks great on both women's and men's wrists.
• The most common are calfskin bracelets. They are distinguished by good durability and an affordable price.

Another popular material is rubber . A huge number of different products are made from it today. Watch straps are no exception.

These rubber parts are distinguished by their softness and elasticity, but you need to be very careful with them, as they easily absorb unpleasant odors, dirt and sweat. This can undoubtedly lead to damage to their appearance.

The trend of recent seasons is silicone bracelets for watches . Their properties are very similar to rubber, but they are more flexible and resistant to moisture.

Watches with such elements are light and comfortable to wear. Your hand won't get tired of them.

Silicone straps are easy to clean from dirt and dust. Today fashionistas can choose the right option in any color!

After the release of the James Bond film series, nylon watch straps became extremely popular..

Nylon products perfectly frame the wrist and look very original. But under such bracelets the skin practically does not breathe, so it is better not to use them in hot weather.

For many models of wrist straps, natural and synthetic fibers are used, treated with special compounds that increase their wear resistance and protective properties. Such products are not afraid of moisture and sweat.

Most often, tarpaulin and paracord are used to produce textile bracelets. They can be complemented with thick leather linings.

Satin belts look very original . They are ideal for a respectable watch with an understated feel.

Metal belts are classic . The metal can be absolutely anything. For example, for luxury luxury watches, it is recommended to select bracelets made of precious alloys (gold, silver, platinum). Simpler and more affordable watch models can easily be supplemented with brass, titanium or aluminum parts.

Carbon watch straps are lightweight and durable . They look very stylish and expensive. One of the disadvantages of such elements is their rigidity. But today, many manufacturers supplement carbon bracelets with silicone or nylon linings so that they do not cause discomfort when worn.

Today, choosing a strap of your favorite color is not difficult.

• Leather models look best in white, black, grey, burgundy and brown.
• It is recommended to select textile options in dark and neutral colors, as dusty and dirty spots will quickly appear on light bracelets.
• Rubber and silicone belts today can be purchased in absolutely any color. But red, blue, light green, orange, coral, white, black, blue, purple, yellow and pink specimens look especially bright and rich on a woman’s wrist.
• Metal bracelets look expensive and chic in black, gold or silver.
• The universal color is black. It looks great against any straps and goes with almost all ladies' outfits.

Choose items that match your wardrobe and its color palette. Properly selected sets will attract the admiring glances of passers-by.

Finding the perfect strap for your watch is very easy. Let's look at this issue in more detail.

• Choose models that will serve you for as long as possible.
• Pay attention to the width of the bracelet. Not every belt will fit the case of your watch, so this issue must be approached with the utmost seriousness. Pre-measure the distance between the watch lugs. Belts that are too wide simply cannot be installed in the body, and too narrow ones will look unsightly.

• The length of the accessory is equally important. As a rule, all models of bracelets are made elongated. This is necessary so that you can regulate them at your discretion. For example, some metal versions have additional links that can be easily removed. But do not throw away unnecessary elements, as they may be useful to you in the future (if you need to replace one of the “working” links).

• Before choosing the appropriate option, you need to determine your wrist size. Measure it using a tape measure or sewing meter. It is recommended to buy straps that are slightly wider than your hand. So, your favorite accessory will be as comfortable as possible while wearing.

• Recently, it has become very fashionable to wear watches with loose bracelets.

Take your material selection seriously. It should not only be of high quality and hypoallergenic, but also harmonious with your style and wardrobe.

Designers and couturiers advise to be very careful when choosing the color of the strap. It should echo the colors of other accessories in the image (if any).

But it is worth noting the fact that recently young people do not adhere to this rule. They combine things and jewelry of different colors in their ensembles, especially when it comes to casual-style outfits.

Unusual solutions for decorating watches

Having created a leather watch strap with your own hands, you don’t have to stop there. There are tons of other materials that can be used to create bracelets. On your own, you can make a whole range of straps for a festive or everyday look.

To make an unusual watch strap, you can use colored laces that need to be woven using one of the many patterns. In addition, you can weave a bracelet from silk round cords - such a product will retain its shape for quite a long time and provide a strong fit on your hand.

Important! When using a woven version of a watch strap, it is important to take into account the fact that, unlike leather, the wicker does not stretch. This should be taken into account when calculating the required length.

Thus, making a watch strap with your own hands is a fairly simple and exciting activity. It is enough to pay attention to the choice of material and make a little effort to become the owner of a unique bracelet for your favorite watch.

Adviсe

In addition to this design, you can also use other options. You can make two straps that will be attached to the pins of the watch case.

You can also use a variety of paints, including metallic ones. This paint option is ideal for women's watches.

On which hand do men wear a chain?

How to untangle the chain?

Varieties of unusual products

A few useful recommendations will never be superfluous. What you need to know if you want to take up this type of needlework:

• For example, you can use the weaving technique with four cords, attaching rings to the two ends so that they can later be connected into a bracelet. You can make bag straps in the same way.
• As an alternative, there is the single puzzle technique. Make small holes at the ends of the bracelet. Thread a cord through them for adjustment.
• To make the bracelet look like it was woven by a professional, you need to purchase additional decor for it - connect the ends, secure them with a clip.
• This finishing method is great for creating leather necklaces.
• To make a pendant from a necklace, you will need beads or a stone with a hole or bow. You can also make a medallion with a photo.

The most important thing is to constantly develop in this craft. Some people don't stop at decorations and decorations.

They are interested in how to make a whip, a whip or a crop with their own hands. This requires other techniques that also need to be learned.

Bracelet made of cord and beads

Among the various bracelets for women's wrists, a bracelet made of cord and beads looks very original. To create it, it is best to use synthetic cord; beads can be taken in any size or color. In order to make a beautiful bracelet for your wrist you will need:

• synthetic lace of medium thickness, approximately 20 cm;
• beads;
• elastic thread;
• scissors;
• needle;
• matches or lighter.

Melt the edge of the cord with a lighter or matches. Using a needle and thread, thread the bead about 2 cm from the edge, bend the cord slightly, and insert the needle into it. Then make a bend of the cord exactly the same size and put on the bead.

Use this method to make the entire bracelet the required length, then tie the ends with thread and trim off the excess lace. Melt both ends of the cord and quickly clamp them so that the cord closes. This bracelet will look beautiful on a woman's hand.

Button bracelet

In every home you can find a variety of buttons from old things. Such elements will be an excellent basis for an original feminine jewelry on the wrist. A button bracelet is an affordable, stylish piece of jewelry. Its creation does not require significant expenses, special skills, or abilities.

The simplest option for a button bracelet is to stock up on a large number of buttons of the same size and a strong, thin elastic band. Cut the elastic so long that you can put it on your wrist without any extra effort. Thread the buttons through the elastic band, pressing one to the other tightly.

Tie the ends of the elastic into a tight knot and hide it in the hole of the outer button. This bracelet looks beautiful and unusual; thanks to the color scheme of the buttons, you can make a decoration to match the desired outfit.

Wide bracelet made from a plastic bottle

Massive wide bracelets are a popular decoration. They can be made in any style and design. One of the best options for making them yourself is to use a plastic bottle for the base.

You can decorate such bracelets with various materials: shells, multi-colored stones, beads, buttons, fabric appliqués, metal rivet buttons...

Men's bracelet made of genuine leather

To make it you will need:

• a thin piece of leather about 20 cm;
• anchor suspension;
• clasp for jewelry.

Wrap the leather cord around your wrist and trim off the excess length. Cut the resulting cord of leather in half, tie a pendant tightly to two edges, and attach a clasp to the other two edges.

If there is no clasp, you can tie the bracelet in a knot, but then at the beginning of the work you need to make a reserve on the length of the lace. You can use any other pendant.

Fenugreek

A bracelet such as Shambhala is very popular among women and men of different ages. This product is characterized by a weave of square knots made of cord and beautiful large beads that can be of any color, decorated with small stones.

There is more than one pattern for weaving a bracelet; you can weave it in one, two, three rows, depending on this the number of rows of beads will depend. The most important thing in creating such a decoration is a correctly executed square knot.

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To make such a bracelet, it will be enough to watch a master class or video lesson on the Internet and stock up on the necessary materials and tools.

Interesting options

Craftsmen divide types of bracelets into categories. They vary in design.

1. Thin and thick accessories:

1. Accessory with buttons, fasteners:

1. With patterns or rhinestones:

1. With a few turns around the wrist:

In addition to regular weaving, there is circular weaving. In addition to thin leather, you will need a rope. It is this that the cords braid.

Progress:

1. Take four birch cords about 2 cm. We prepare a rope of the same length. Pay attention to the diameter - from 3 to 5 mm.
2. Using glue (preferably “Moment”) we connect the ends in a circle (15-20 mm in length). Secure the gluing area with thread.

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1. We divide the cords into two parts. Remember the left and right parts by mentally numbering them. We take the left ones in the left hand, and the right ones in the right.
2. Let's use the diagram.

1. When the length is about 130-140 mm, we secure the end with thread.
2. Lubricate the unbraided ends with glue. Leave to dry.
3. Flatten the ends of the tubes. Make a place for the fixer, install.

Here is the result, which looks like a whip:

Leather bracelets do not last forever because they are made of delicate material. You don’t always find high-quality products in stores, so when purchasing, check its strength and the presence of excess threads. Of course, the leather belt also needs to be checked. Often they can become worn, worn out and lose their shape. It is dangerous to buy products in online stores; there is no way to check the quality and verify the authenticity of the brand. Try making your own accessory. It's easy to enjoy the work. But it’s even nicer to wear something you made yourself.

Original leather bracelet with cord

This accessory is suitable for both men and women. You can decorate it with beads, buttons, rings, and special connectors for jewelry.

To make your own leather bracelet with lace you will need:

• A strip of thick leather 1.5 cm wide and a length corresponding to the circumference of the wrist.
• A thin textile cord, you can take waxed or leather (60 cm).
• Glue "Moment".
• Scissors, stationery knife, pen, ruler, awl, pliers, hammer.
• Decor (optional).

Bead bracelet

Do-it-yourself beaded bracelets are quite common, because from such material you can weave jewelry of different widths, with different patterns and styles. Beaded bracelets in the form of baubles with names or certain words are popular. These bracelets are very popular among children and teenagers.

Step-by-step instruction

First you need to cut the leather strip lengthwise into two equal parts. The resulting narrow blanks are folded in half and together, then secured with a fastener-clip. Before weaving a leather bracelet, the workpiece must be secured so that it does not move during work. Now, according to the diagram in the photo below, we weave a braid of four elements. Try not to twist the stripes, then the product will turn out more neat. We fix the end of the braid with a clamp.

A stylish woven men's bracelet is ready! It will perfectly complement the rebellious style, so loved by many young people.