Today I bring you one of my recent discoveries: string bracelets.
I know that it is not new, but I have recently encouraged myself to create my own designs and I have realized that it is an activity that I love. It is imaginative, relaxing and gives me a lot of play to make surprise gifts that succeed.
Have you already tried to make them? I'll tell you a few things and I'm sure you'll be encouraged.
But I warn you: once you start, it's a vice!
How to start: choose the materials for your string bracelets
You may also know them as macramé bracelets, knot bracelets or even friendship bracelets (that's because you will start giving them to friends, they are so beautiful that you will want everyone to wear them).
Actually, all these denominations refer to the same type of bracelets: those that are made, normally by hand, by braiding the threads or chaining some knots on top of others.
I really like them because they put a point of color on the wrists or ankles, and also provide a natural look that is trending , so it is a good time to pay attention to these bracelets.
Also, since I choose the colors, I focus on the ranges that I like the most and I try combinations.
To weave it is necessary to gain skill little by little , as in any artisan or manual activity. It is possible that the first thread bracelets you make do not turn out as you would like, but right away you see that it is not complicated at all.
As soon as you have a few "flying hours" your technique begins to improve rapidly and you can start trying more daring designs.
But let's go in parts. What do you need to start? The truth is that very little. Write down:
The first thing is the easiest: some scissors and a lighter to seal the ends of the thread or cord that you use.
Then you have to find a support, something to which you can hook one end of the bracelet and that maintains a little tension to be able to work.
Do I give you ideas? For example, you can use a thick safety pin that can take a few pulls. You hook it to some stable place that is comfortable for you to sit down to knit.
It can also be a clamp used to hold papers, which are usually quite strong.
Or what you see. The idea is for it to hold one end while you weave into the other.
And finally, you need the most important thing: threads.
In fact, you can weave your bracelets with practically any type of fine thread or rope: hemp, silk, wool, cotton, nylon, plastic... The most common is waxed thread , due to its resistance and variety of colors. It is very durable, easy to manipulate and does not tangle. So to begin with, it is the one that I recommend.
Do you already have everything? You just need to find a quiet time to start braiding.
Are you just getting started or are you an expert? 3 types of string bracelets
As soon as you get into this world you will see the amount of possibilities you have. You will start with the simplest bracelets, but then you will want to try more ambitious creations.
It is that a thread bracelet can be a jewel! Shall I show you some?
1. Flat bracelets
They are the simplest and that is why we usually start practicing with this type of bracelet.
I make them with waxed thread , choosing the combinations that best fit me at that moment.
Once you master the knotting technique, you can make them as wide as you want, simply by adding more threads at the beginning.
Personally, I like to combine different widths , with a flat bracelet and a thinner one and with another type of braid.
2. Bracelets with designs
When you already have a little more practice, it's time to try. There are patterns that teach how to tie different types of knots, and there are no limits.
You can create authentic wonders, such as macrame bracelets with a golden clasp and dominate the shapes: circles, ovals or zig-zag, among others.
3. Bracelets with beads, stones or appliqués
These are my favourites! It is the step further, so that a thread bracelet can become a jewel.
The easiest way to test is to start playing by inserting beads into the design. Precious creations are achieved, like these.
When you already have it mastered, you can launch for the precious stones. choose the one you like and weave your bracelet around it. This is what I have done with my Candy collection .
The truth is that I would love for you to try it and tell me what you think. I am increasingly hooked, doing my own tests and experiments.
I can assure you that in a short time much progress is made, and you can do real wonders.
Can you show me your designs?