Throwback! If you remember the early ’90s, then you’ll remember slap bracelets—a super-popular accessory from back in the day. Now you can make them for yourself and rock some vintage style. They’re also just fun to play with!
25
SNAP BANDS
SAFETY KEY:
+ Sharp objects—scissors, blade, screwdriver
SKILL LEVEL:
EASY
INTERMEDIATE
ADVANCED
APPROXIMATE TIME:
20 minutes
WHAT YOU’LL NEED:
+ Duct tape
+ Metal measuring tape
+ Scissors
+ Screwdriver (or any bar-like device with a smooth, round surface)
+ Bench vise
LET’S BEGIN
1. Extract the measuring tape, making sure not to let it spring back into the container. Also make sure you use a measuring tape that you are okay with ruining for this project.
2. Cut the measuring tape into seven-inch lengths.
PRO TIP: Take out the whole measuring tape at once or tape the end onto its container, since once you cut off one piece, the remainder can be hard to manage.
3. Round off the edges and file down any sharp spots. The edges can accidentally cut you.
4. You need to take the curve out of the tape. Place a screwdriver in a bench vise and lock it down.
5. Bend the measuring-tape piece around the screwdriver, forcing it to bend the opposite way to take some of the curve off.
6. For safety, wrap colorful duct tape around the metal tape.
7. Use two pieces to cover it and trim off any excess. It should snap onto your wrist exactly how you want it to.
8. Decorate as you like. Use any color or pattern to personalize your snap accessories!
RANDOM THOUGHT: If we can make a slap bracelet, do you think we could also make a slap belt? A slap headband? Or any other accessory made out of this measuring tape, for that matter? Get creative!
FUN FACT: Snap bands were invented by a high school teacher in 1983. Ironically enough, they became so popular with students that some schools eventually decided to ban them, as they were causing distractions in class.