Punched Leather Cuff Bracelet
If you're looking to craft a unique, stylish accessory that makes a statement, a punched leather cuff bracelet is a fantastic project to take on!
With ReaLeather's Veg-Tan Tooling Leather and precision ReaLeather tools, creating a stunning, high-quality bracelet is simpler than you might think.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through making your own punched leather cuff bracelet, from preparing the leather to adding custom punched designs that reflect your personal style. Whether you're new to leather crafting or a seasoned artisan, this project is accessible, rewarding, and sure to leave you with a piece you’ll love to wear.
SUPPLY LIST:
- Metal Cuff Bracelet With Insert Space
- Veg-Tan Tooling Leather (4 to 5 oz.) 1” X 7”
- T3103-00 Diamond Punch
- T3003 Round Mini Punch Set
- Stylus (Modeling Tool)
- Cutting Mat, Craft Knife, Straight Edge Ruler
- Bowl of Water & Sponge For Casing
- Swivel Knife, Stamps & Mallet
- Protective Leather Finish & Applicator
- Leathercraft Cement
Optional: Leather Dyes, Acrylic Paints, Or Permanent Markers
How To Prepare the Leather:
Cuff sizes may vary. Measure the cuff space to be covered. Allow for leather ends to slip under cuff grips. Cut your leather piece slightly longer than needed using a craft knife on a cutting mat. (This sample is the actual size 7/8” width x an oversized 7” length.)
Case (dampen) smooth side of leather with sponge and water . Let it rest for a few minutes. When leather comes back to its natural color and is cool to the touch, it is ready to stamp.
Stamping & Punching Steps:
Step 1: Scribe a guideline along the length of strap, top and bottom, 1/8” in from outside edges.
Step 2: Cut scribed lines with a swivel knife using a ruler or straight edge as a guide. Then bevel both
lines on the inside using a modeling tool.
Step 3: Find center of both cut lines and mark with stylus (modeling tool). This will be the placement of the first impression on both lines. Stamp the top row first, starting with DP010 border stamp on center mark.
Step 4: Stamp the first row. Be careful to keep all stamps spaced equally apart. Do not overlap impressions.
Step 5: Start 2nd row of impressions on center mark. Then continue. Use first row as guide for placement of impressions on second row. You can very lightly mark placement with a ruler and stylus. It is important that the 1st and 2nd rows be mirror image in order for the punches used in Steps 7 & 8 to line up properly.
Step 6: Scribe a VERY light guideline down center between 1st and 2nd rows of impressions.
Step 7: Start punching diamond shapes between 1st & 2nd row impressions. Be sure to skip a space to be filled next with round punched holes.
Step 8: Punch round holes between diamonds.
TIP: Now color the leather with leather dyes, stains, antiques or us e acrylics paints or permanent
markers. Let leather dry, then add a protective leather finish.
Step 9: Trim strap length so ends will just fit under grips.
Step 10: Open end grips with modeling tool if necessary.
Step 11: Apply glue along top and bottom. Do not apply glue around punched holes (to avoid glue oozing through holes when placed on cuff).
Step 12: Slip ends under grips, position leather on cuff and hold in place until glue sets.
Crafting a punched leather cuff bracelet with ReaLeather's Veg-Tan Tooling Leather and tools is a creative journey that lets you bring your personal style to life. With just a few essential tools and some careful attention to detail, you can create a stunning, durable accessory that’s uniquely yours. Not only is this project a wonderful way to explore leatherworking, but it also makes a thoughtful, handmade gift for friends or family. So roll up your sleeves, let your creativity flow, and enjoy crafting a piece that combines style with substance.
