How to Make Snap-On Feather Cuffs

Feather accessories will make you stand out from the crowd.

Creating a snap-on cuff bracelet is a great way to use up scrap leather or heavy fabrics leftover from other craft or decorating projects. Decorating a cuff with sewn-on feathers was first used by rock star and "American Idol" judge, Steven Tyler, after he wore feather hair extensions on the show. For a sturdy cuff, choose feathers with a thick, strong rachis, or shaft, that will hold up to being sewn onto the cuff and withstand regular wear.

Things You'll Need

• Scrap leather, canvas or other heavy fabric, at least 3 inches wide and 7 inches to 10 inches long
• Feathers
• Scissors
• Upholstery needle
• Upholstery thread
• Awl
• Snap attachment tool
• Snaps
• Hammer
• Fabric glue

Instructions

1. Wrap the scrap of leather or fabric around your wrist. Ensure there is at least a 2-inch overlap for the snaps. Cuff off any excess leather or fabric to ensure a good fit. Mark the placement of the snaps using a pen.

2. Thread the upholstery needle with a length of thread, knot the end and clip excess.

3. Sew the feathers to the outside center of the cuff leather or fabric as desired, using small whipstitches around the rachis to hold each feather in place. Leave at least 2 inches on either end of the cuff featherless; this is where you will install the snaps. Knot the end of the thread and clip excess.

4. Poke a small hole for the snaps through the markings on both ends of the cuff bracelet using the awl.

5. Set out the snap pieces. There should be four pieces for the snap: two for the tops of the snap, one for the male bottom of the snap and one for the female bottom of the snap.

6. Fit one snap top and the male bottom through one of the holes on the side of the cuff. The snap top should have a small rod that fits into the male piece. Ensure the bottom faces the wrong side of the cuff.

7. Place the snap attachment tool on following the manufacturer's directions and attach using the hammer. Tap the tool lightly, using even, firm strokes, all around the tool.

8. Attach the second snap top and female bottom to the other side of the cuff in the same manner.

9. Bend the cuff gently and use dabs of fabric glue to tack down or reinforce portions of the feather, as necessary. You can also secure the sewn stitches with a thin layer of glue on the underside of the cuff, if desired. Allow the glue to dry before wearing.

References

• Complete Leatherwork: Easy Techniques and Over 20 Great Projects; Katherine Pogson; Collins & Brown; 2009
• "USA Today"; People Flock to Fishy, Feathery Hair Trend; Jenny Elig; June 2011