Easy Leather Bracelets with Shell Charms

Even if you don't think you have time to craft any gifts, you CAN make these leather bracelets with trendy shell charms....before Xmas....really!  The key for this this project is finding the shells and beads. Check out House Mart Ben Franklin Crafts to see what they have to offer.  The sea glass-like beads are actually gemstone chips I purchased on a strand from BFC and the white cone shell top (puka shell) can be gathered at local beaches. (For some reason the bracelet on the right looks orange but the leather is really a nice warm brown.)

Jewelry pliers and wire snips are all the tools you'll need to assemble the bracelets.  The findings were simple because they came in a set that included the metal part to attach to the leather, the chains and clasp.  If you can't find the set, it is easy enough to find all the parts separately.  To attach the 5" leather strip put a drop of jewelry cement on the end of the leather and squeeze on the metal end. You will need additional jump rings to adjust the size of the bracelet.  I like my bracelets to be a 7" circle.  To add the shells and beads you will need head pins.  I use three inch ones to make wire wrapping easier.

Besides the metal findings, you will be able to find leather strips at Ben Franklin Crafts too.  These were sold in 10" lengths so you can make two average sized bracelets with each $2.99 strip.....BARGAIN!  The thinner bracelet (in the top photo) used a strip from a giant bag of strips sold in the BFC leather craft department....yes, there's a leather department!  I know that you will find these bracelets addictive to make and everyone will be delighted to receive one too.  Happy Holiday Crafting!