How to Make Rubber Bracelets

By Adele Caelia, eHow Contributing Writer

Rubber bracelets are the new fad among pre-teens and teens. These simple little bracelets can be found everywhere from the grocery store, mall, and even on the counters at the local pharmacy. Rubber bracelets usually feature a catchy phrase or word that expresses the personality of the wearer. You can bring out your own personality by creating stylish rubber bracelets on your own. Follow these steps and you will be well on your way to being a fashion diva.

Instructions

Step 1 Cover your work area with layers of old newspaper. You may need to layer this a couple of times to prevent the dye from soaking through to your work surface.

Step 2 Prepare the dye in a separate container for each color you wish to use. Set these to the side where they will not be easily knocked over.

Step 3 Choose a rubber band that fits your wrist well. Make sure that the rubber band you choose has enough room to write on if you wish to add text later. Place the rubber band in the color of dye you want. Keep the rubber band sitting in the dye until the color is the desired density and then remove it to dry.

Step 4 Lay the rubber band in front of you as flat as possible. Tape down the ends to prevent movement. Place the stencil over the rubber band and, using a permanent marker, begin to write the desired text.

Step 5 Remove the tape. Allow the bracelet to sit for a few minutes to ensure that the marker is dry and does not smudge.

Tips & Warning

If you have nice handwriting, try printing the text without the stencil

Glue on glitter and other decorations to make your bracelet a real fashion trend.

Be careful with the dye. It is very messy and will stain easily.

Source from http://www.ehow.com/how_4516227_make-rubber-bracelets.html

How to Make Rubber Bracelets

Trendy rubber bracelets are popular with young people in many different parts of the world. Commercially produced versions can be found in discount stores and even some upscale boutiques for teens. However, there is no reason to go out and buy a bracelet that is just like every other rubber bracelet in town. Creating simple bracelets using rubber bands is not as hard as you may think. In fact, it is possible to assemble a great-looking bracelet in a very short period of time.


Step 1
Select a rubber band that fits comfortably around your wrist. It is okay if the band is slightly loose, as it will form the core of the final design for your bracelet.



Step 2
Choose thinner rubber bands of different colors that will work with the color of the core band. Cut the additional bands into strings that you can weave or wrap around the core band to create texture.


Step 3
Use the sharp tip of the scissors to create a small puncture in the body of the core band. Slide one end of a thinner rubber band through the slit. Tie a knot on the back side in order to hold the string in place.


Step 4
Settle on one of two design elements for the bracelet. One option is to tie a second knot on the surface of the core band, then clip off the excess. Repeat the pattern around the core band, using a mix of different colors. An alternative approach is to space additional slits so the strings can be used to create the look of stitching. Remember to tie off the end of the string by making a knot on the back side of the core band.


Step 5
Consider personalizing the surface of the rubber bracelet with stenciling. Position the stencil in between the stitches or knots. Use the markers or the model paint to fill in the design or letter on the stencil. Contrasting colors for the stenciling will make the bracelet even more original.
Skill: Moderately Easy
Ingredients:
Rubber bands in various colors and sizes
Scissors
Model paint or permanent markers
Stencil
Tip: Always make sure the bracelet is comfortable and does not restrict blood flow through the wrist. Also make sure the body of the bracelet does not pull on any small hairs in the area of the wrist.
Warning: Test all the materials used to make the bracelet in advance. The goal is to make sure you are not allergic to the rubber or the ingredients of the ink or paint. An allergic reaction could be painful as well as cause the wrist to discolor.



Written by Malcolm Tatum

Source from http://www.essortment.com/articles/rubber-bracelets_103031.htm