About Stretch Bracelets

With the popularity of charm bracelets and beaded bangles, stretch bracelets have also come into fashion. They are typically flashy or sparkly, and beaded without knots or spacers. They are a simple and affordable costume jewelry option.

Types

Typical stretch bracelets feature beads on a single band. There is no clasp or closure because they are beaded on elastic bands. Some stretch bracelets are on a single band, while others feature double or triple bands, giving the illusion of stacked bracelets. They may have lightweight plastic beads, glass beads, stones or even gems, although most stretch bracelets tend to be more oriented toward costume jewelry rather than fine jewelry. There are also stretch bracelets made in smaller sizes for girls, and in larger sizes for ankle bracelets.

Pricing

For people with a business interest in stretch bracelets, it is possible to order them in high quantities from wholesalers. If you have a resale license or seller's permit, you can buy a dozen stretch bracelets for about $9. It is also possible to buy all the materials necessary to make a stretch bracelet. The beauty of this approach is that making stretch bracelets requires no special tools, only the elastic string and the beads, both of which are available at bead shops as well as online. Leave enough elastic string at the tail end of the bracelet to tie a knot. Some people seal the knot with clear nail polish or super glue.

Potential

Stretch bracelets can be the ideal fashion accessory. They are easy to mix and match and come in colors and materials that can complement any wardrobe. They can be stacked up the arm or worn in a simple strand to add elegant sparkle. They come in materials ranging from giant plastic beads to tiny photograph frames that can be personalized. Stretch bracelets can accommodate large wrists as well as petite sizes. For those seeking maximum bling, there are bracelets strung with Swarovski crystals.

Considerations

Stretch bracelets are fun to wear with everything, but your favorites will not survive the trials of daily use. It is wise to watch stretch bracelets for signs of snagging because, if the elastic breaks during use, it is easy to lose the beads, particularly if they are seed beads. If the elastic appears frayed or if the bracelet sags, carefully cut the band and restring the beads on a fresh piece of elastic.

Warning

Although they come in sizes for children, stretch bracelets are not a good gift for a young child who still puts things in her mouth. The small beads can be chewed off the elastic, or the elastic can break and the beads can fall off and become choking hazards. Also, some of the stretch bracelet jewelry given as prizes in gumball machines has been found to contain dangerous quantities of lead, which can result in lead poisoning if the objects are sucked or chewed.

Resources

• A video of how to make a stretch bracelet