Introduction: Best Way to Remove Annoying Event Bracelets

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About: I've worked for Instructables off and on since 2006 building and documenting just about everything I enjoy doing. I am now the Creative Programs founder and manager for Autodesk and just finished building out…

I've wasted 10, maybe even 15 minutes of my life trying to yank those little Tyvek event bracelets off my wrists after going to a show, street fair or what have you. Well...no more - I've discovered a trick to get these little suckers off that makes me feel as strong as Superman, and smarter than Einstein. It's so easy that anything with an opposable thumb could do it!

Even though this has got to be one of the more mundane hacks out there, it's usefulness has improved the quality of my life immensely. If you've ever experienced how difficult those little bracelets can be to break off when you don't have a scissors lying around, you'll sympathize with me, and see why this Instructable is so important.

Step 1: Tyvek Is Incredibly Strong

Until discovering this new method - I've tried to just use brute force to rip the bracelet off. I'd slip my finger under the bracelet, pull as hard as I could, possibly hurt my wrist or even cut my finger, and still have the bracelet stuck on my wrist. It ends in admitting defeat, waiting until I'm home later in the day, and then using a scissors to cut the bracelet off.

Tyvek is stronger than I am. Lesson learned.

Step 2: Pull on the Inner Tab

The secret to easily and happily removing the bracelet is to pull on the inner tab. When the bracelet is applied, there is a little extra tab that is created. Grab hold of it and slowly peel it back.

Step 3: Bracelet Comes Off

Once you give it a gentle tug, the adhesive will peel right off the other side and the bracelet will easily come off.

I can't explain how gratifying it feels to do this. I almost want to go to Costco and pick up a couple thousand Tyvek bracelets right now just so I can take them off.