Introduction: Leather Bracelets From Recycled Belts
There are plenty of old leather belts that have been discarded because of changing tastes, or a part broke, or maybe the original owner just got too fat. This technique is a way to make bracelets from these belts. Cut them carefully and you should be able to get three from each belt.
I'm using a laser cutter here, but the original technique was taught to me by my friend Becca who used leather tools to create cool effects as well. The method of decoration is your own, but making the bracelet itself is very easy as you'll see.
Step 1: Decorate the Belt
I used a laser cutter to etch this Japanese design into the surface of the belt. You can also use a leather stamping technique.
Step 2: Measure and Cut
Wrap the belt around your wrist and let it overlap by 1.5 inches. Cut with your favorite cutting tool.
Step 3: Mark Locations for Holes
Wrap the leather around your wrist so that it is fairly snug, but still comfortable to move with. Now loosen the belt by an 1/8 of an inch or so to give yourself some room for the snaps.
Step 4: Drill or Punch Holes in Ends
With the overlap of the bracelet where you want it, drill or punch out holes that are in the middle of the overlap.
Step 5: Attach the Snaps
With a hammer, bang in some heavy duty snaps so that the bracelet can snap around your wrist.
Step 6: Wear It!
Sweet, you're done! Now snap the bracelet around your wrist or give it to someone else.

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91 Comments
6 years ago
I love leather products like leather jackets but made with genuine leather as offered by "LeatherJacketsUSA".
6 years ago
Thanks man i think im gonna fo this 4 a project! Thanks alot 4 the help
8 years ago on Introduction
cool
9 years ago on Introduction
Good idea
13 years ago on Step 6
cool man! :D where do you get the snaps from? i've looked at walmart, but couldn't find any.
Reply 10 years ago on Step 6
it depends on where you are but around me there are some tandy's which are specifcly for leather
Reply 11 years ago on Step 6
go to a hobby center or arts and craft store. Not sure what part of the world you are in, so my examples might be a bit off, but in my area we have Micheal's or Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft Stores. Or, buy them online
10 years ago on Step 6
nice
10 years ago on Step 6
...I Like that instructable.. !!!! . . ahahaha.... very cool....and amazing.... it's very simple but I dont know why I don't that instructable before,.. ! :))
10 years ago on Introduction
"or maybe the original owner just got too fat......" lol
11 years ago on Step 5
You could have a stud on the inside end, facing outward, that goes through the hole on the outside like a button
Reply 11 years ago on Step 5
Or poke some extra holes, preserve the buckle, and use that to close it
Reply 11 years ago on Step 5
hey st jinny. just wondering but did you get your nem from the greenday songs. i love greenday. they are an awesome band.
Reply 11 years ago on Step 5
Yep! They are pretty awesome
11 years ago on Introduction
I'm going to make these, but not with belts, as i have a huge peice of black leather from an old biker jacket.
11 years ago on Introduction
where did u get the snaps????
12 years ago on Introduction
can it wor k with a dremel
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
Which part?
12 years ago on Introduction
2 snaps work better for me. But mine's about 3 inches wide, so it has to have two, so it doesn't rotate around the one snap. You can probably get away with one here if it's tight enough.
Reply 12 years ago on Introduction
True, two snaps are better. That way you avoid pivoting. Personally, I don't mind he pivot and allowed it to move with my wrist.