How to Make Italian Photo Charm Bracelets

Italian charm bracelets are different than any other kind of charm bracelet. Instead of charms that hang down from a bracelet, Italian charms are small rectangular links that are connected together to form a bracelet.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer Photo Paper Printer Italian Photo Charm Bracelet Making Kit Scissors

How to Make Italian Photo Charm Bracelets

1. Install the photo resizing software on your computer. This should have come in the kit you purchased. All you have to do is put the CD- ROM in your computer and follow the directions on the screen to install the software. This software is designed specifically for Italian charm bracelets. It doesn't alter the pixels in your picture, so even though you are resizing the photo, it will keep the same clarity as the original.

2. Choose the photos you would like to use. You will choose 18 photos, all of which need to be uploaded on your computer so that you can resize them. You can choose your photos in a number of ways. You can make a tribute bracelet to remember a loved one, a mother's or grandmother's bracelet or even a bracelet dedicated to your child's sports for a special way to cheer her on! Choose your pictures carefully; they will be permanently adhered to the charm, creating your personalized piece of jewelry.

3. Import the photos you have chosen to the photo software that you installed. Resize the photos according to the size of the charm you have chosen. The standard Italian charm bracelet is 19 mm. Once the photos are resized, print them on photo paper and cut them out .

4. Apply the photos to the photo charms using glue. You should lay the charms out in the order you would like them to be on your bracelet. Let the glue dry completely and then apply the clear sealing coat to permanently attach the photo to the charm. Let dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

5. Add the charms to the bracelet. The charms attach to the bracelet by attaching the metal loop on the bracelet to the loop on the charm. To do this, you simply hold the bracelet with both hands and pull the ends so that the loops to attach the links are exposed. Then push down with your thumb to keep the space open. Slide the link in, starting with the right side. Once you have the loops hooked together, push down with your thumb to secure them in place.

Tips & Warnings

• While the sealer coat is drying, you should put a bowl or a small plastic box over the top of it so that dust doesn't get trapped in the bracelet. You can use different pictures to make themed bracelets. These make great gifts! If you are having trouble adding the charms, you can use a nail file or even one of the specially designed tools to hold the bracelet open while you slide the link in.