This is a thrifty and fun way to up-cycle your drink can pop top tabs and this bracelet doesn't require a lot of supplies. It's lightweight, yet nice and 'chunky' and would make a really great gift for a teenager, as well as an interesting 'conversation piece' for an adult. This bracelet will fit a 7 inch wrist and you will need 20 pop top tabs, 26 half inch diameter rings, as well as a clasp.
*Each link is approximately an inch in length, then you'll have the extra connector rings, plus the clasp.*
Total Time: 1-2 Hours
Supplies:
- 20 Drink can pop top tabs
- 26 1/2 inch diameter 16 gauge silver jump rings
- 1 Bracelet clasp of your choice
- Small pliers
- Wire cutters
If you are making your own jump rings, you will need a roll of 16 gauge silver wire and 1/2 inch round edged marker as a ring template. You may also need a round edged pencil, as well.
Steps:
- First make sure all of your pop tops are 'matching'. Some tabs have a larger hole and some have a smaller hole. Wash/dry the tabs. If you already have your ready made jump rings, then that will give you a head start and youll be able to start making links immediately...which will also cut your assembly time in half.
- *I like to make my own jump rings and if you decide to make your own, you will need to make 26 rings. Use slight tension when you coil the 16 gauge wire evenly around the marker 26 times, then carefully slide the wire off and cut all of the rings as evenly as possible with the wire cutter.*
- Next you will start to make links, starting with a combination of 4 pop tops and 4 rings. Make sure your pop tops are all going in the same direction throughout the construction of your bracelet. I found it works better to add just one ring at a time to make sure all the rings are lined up nice and neat. Also be sure that all the rings are in each hole of the tabs.
- Each link is approximately 1 inch long. Keep making links until you have all 5 completed, then add 4 more jump rings to each end of your bracelet.
*If you made your own jump rings, this is where you can slightly adjust your bracelet. If you want it a bit tighter, make a smaller end ring using a round pencil as your 'template'...or just add a different clasp like a lobster claw. If you want your bracelet a bit looser, then just use a ring of the same size as the 1/2 inch diameter link rings.* - Next connect the bracelet clasp to that one last end ring, using the smaller rings that are provided with the clasp. Now it's time to try on your bracelet and admire your handiwork. I hope you enjoyed making this thrifty fun up-cycled pop top tab bracelet.
I plan to make a matching necklace and some earrings to go with it. :-)
