Jewelry 103

Today it's all about bracelets.  To be honest, I never really liked them.  They either slipped off, banged into my work surface, or I'd have to shove them up my forearm so they wouldn't get in the way.  I only began enjoying bracelets, after I custom made them.  My helpful jewelry store owner, Irene, educated me on bracelets and now I'll pass the info. onto you.  Irene, informed me that standard bracelets are 7 1/2 inches in diameter.  This is too big for me.  

Unless your wrist is the standard size of 7 1/2 inches, you really do need a custom bracelet.

In order to know what to request on a custom order this is what you do.  First, measure your wrist with a sewing measuring tape (1st picture).  Fit it comfortably around your wrist...Not too tight. If you don't have one, then use a non stretchy ribbon to wrap around your wrist, then take a ruler to measure the ribbon.  Use a pencil to make your marks and so you don't ruin your ribbon.

Second, add no more than 1/2 inch to your wrist size and this will give you your ideal bracelet size.  So, using me as and example,  my wrist size is 6 3/8 inches and if I add the maximum of 1/2 inch, then that makes my bracelet size 6 7/8th.  Now, if you are custom ordering a leather wrist band then you don't need to add any length to your wrist diameter.  Again using me as an example, my wrist band would be 6 3/8 inches.

Once you have your bracelet, it will be a joy to wear.  Here are examples of bracelets I've woven. the pink one is the first one I ever made.  It came out too big, but I believe in practice makes better not perfect (perfection doesn't exist this side of heaven). The jewel tone bracelet was my second try and it fits very well.

Even though these are made with loads of expensive Swarovski crystals, they are durable and very 
comfy to wear.  Remember it is made to fit, so you don't need to worry about it clanking on anything, slipping off, or it being an obstacle in your daily routine. Truly, these bracelets can be
 worn with jeans and tees.  They are not just date night accessories.  In fact it will help your simple jeans and tee look polished.  Who wants to look frumpy?  Our husbands don't, I assure you, so start off with one item if you are not used to wearing jewelry.  My husband always says I look pretty when I wear jewelry.  

Bracelets are great for mom's with very young children.  I remember how they tugged on earrings or necklaces, but a bracelet is safe.  Even mom's of tiny ones can feel and look pretty and feminine.

This lavender bracelet is featured in my etsy boutique.  www.goyadesigns.etsy.com

I do take custom order requests, of course.  I couldn't write a blog about this and not practice what I preach.  Happy Day and as always Go Accessorize.