How to Make a Leather Slide Closure Bracelet

Leather is commonly used in jewelry such as bracelets and necklaces.

Slide closures are a simple method of attaching one end of a bracelet to another without a clasp, and making the bracelet adjustable in size. The slide closure consists of two Chinese sliding knots that are tied around the finished bracelet, and is most effective on a strong, thick fabric such as leather or cord. You can create your own leather slide closure bracelet at home with two lengths of thin, flat leather.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Thin, flat leather
• Sewing pins

Instructions

1. Measure your wrist with a measuring tape.

2. Cut a length of leather the same size as your wrist measurement.

3. Cut a second length of leather half the size of the first piece.

4. Place the two ends of the longer piece of leather together and pin them to each other with a sewing pin.

5. Lay the pinned piece of leather on a flat surface in front of you. Place it in a circular shape if it does not automatically sit as such.

6. Place the second piece of leather in a semi circle shape around the top half of the first piece of leather.

7. Tie both ends of the second piece of leather in a regular overhand knot around the first piece of leather. Tighten both knots so they are secure but also able to slide comfortably back and forth along the first piece of leather.

8. Cut any excess fabric away from the ends of the second piece of leather. Remove the sewing pin. You can now loosen your bracelet by sliding the knots towards each other, and tighten your bracelet by sliding the knots away from each other.

Tips & Warnings

• You can add beads to the leather bracelet prior to Step 4 for more variety.

References

• Ruby's Beadwork: Sliding Knot
• Craft Jr: Camp Crafts: Friendship Bracelets Tied with a Sliding Knot