How to Make a Cowboy Bolo Tie
The bolo or bola tie is the official neckwear of Arizona and New Mexico. It adds a Western look to a plain shirt for women and men on formal and informal occasions. Make a bolo necktie from a piece of cord or braided leather, fastened with a decorative clasp and tipped with metal. Use your creativity and imagination to select or make clasps to match different outfits or that have a special meaning for you.
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Things You'll Need
- Cord or leather braid, approximately 40 inches long
- Scissors
- Metal bolo slide
- Needle-nose pliers
- Decorative metal, plastic or stone clasp, 1 1/2 to 2 inches diameter
- Jewelry glue
- Metal tie tips
Instructions
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1
Place the cord or braid around your neck to check the length. Traditionally the tie should end at one-quarter of the distance between your neck and your waist. Cut the cord to the length you prefer, if necessary.
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2
Thread one end of the cord into each curved section of the slide. Use the pliers to gently open or close the slide so it can move up and down the cord without slipping. Remove the slide from the cord.
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3
Glue the back of the clasp on to the flat side of the slide. Check the orientation carefully so the clasp will be in the correct position in wear. Allow the glue to dry.
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4
Glue the ends of the cord into the metal tie tips. Place a small amount of glue inside the tips and push one end of the cord into each tip. Tighten the tips with the pliers if necessary.
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5
Thread the slide on to the cord, place the cord around your neck and adjust the position of the clasp.
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Tips & Warnings
Silver is a popular metal for the clasp and tips.
Use a non-permanent adhesive with silver or gold tips, so you can replace the cord without damaging the tips.
