How to Close a Leather Braid

Create leather braids for belts.

Braided leather is used for a variety of accessories, including leather bracelets, necklaces, key rings and belts. Closing leather braids is more trying than closing braids made of ribbon or string as the material is bulkier and does not form a knot as easily. Use thinner leather strips for easy tying off or closing of a braid, as well as some strategically placed hot glue. Create braided leather products for friends and family or for profit via craft fairs and community festivals.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Hot glue

Instructions

1. Braid the leather to the desired length, but leave about 4 inches with which to tie off the braid.

2. Divide the leather strands as evenly as possible. If using a four-strand braid, divide the strands into two sections. If using a three-strand braid, separate the strands into sections of two and one.

3. Tie off the strips into a tight knot. Make a double knot for extra security, and add a dab of hot glue to the knot if desired. If using glue, allow it to dry for about five minutes.

4. Trim the ends of the strips or leave them hanging, depending on your preference.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are creating a bracelet and want to make a leather ball for looping through the other end of the bracelet, use 2 to 3 inches of extra leather.

• Another bracelet or necklace option is to trim the excess leather on either end of the braid, add dabs of hot glue, then attach end clasps to each end. End clasps go over the ends of a piece of material for attachment and therefore hide the glue.

Resources

• Kaboose: Bead Crafts