How to Make Bangle Bracelets With Shells

Gunjan thakurDecember 9, 2022

Seashells are a must-have for a stylish and funky look if you have an uncanny ability to make bracelets out of various upcycled materials. Let us have a great time looking through some considerations.

You will need the following:

• Shells of various sizes and shapes
• A hot glue gun
• String or ribbon
• Scissors

Instructions:

1. Find a few shells that you love. They can be of different sizes and shapes, but try to pick shells with a bit of a curve, as this will make them more comfortable to wear.
2. Glue the shells to the string or ribbon using a hot glue gun. Make sure to leave a bit of extra string or ribbon at both ends, as this will be used to tie the bracelet around your wrist later.
3. Let the glue dry completely before moving on to the next step.
4. Cut off any excess string or ribbon, leaving about half an inch of space between each shell.
5. Tie the bracelet around your wrist, ensuring it’s nice and snug. You can use the extra string or ribbon at the ends to adjust the size.

Supplies Needed for a Shell Bangle Bracelet

For this project, you’ll need a few supplies. You’ll need a few thin bangles, some shells you like, a hot glue gun, and some glue sticks.

First, take your shells and determine how big you want them to be on your bracelet. Once you know that, cut the shells to be that size. You’ll also want to ensure that the hole in the shell is big enough to fit on the bangle bracelet.

Next, use your hot glue gun to put a dab of glue on the bangle bracelet. Then, attach the shell to the bracelet. Hold it in place for a few seconds until the glue dries. Repeat this process until all of your bangles are covered in shells! This process can also be done easily by a bangle manufacturers in India.

Prepare the Base of the Bangle Bracelets

Before you start adhering shells to your bangles, you first need to prepare the base. This means using pliers to open the bangle and wire cutters to cut the wire into two pieces, each about 6 inches long.

Next, use pliers to make a small loop at one end of each wire. This will be the part that goes around the bangle. 

How to Attach the Shells to the Bangle? 

Once you have collected the shells, it’s time to attach them to the bangles. This is a simple process that only requires a few supplies.

You will need the following:

• Shells
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks
• Bangle bracelets

First, put a small amount of hot glue on the top of the shell. Be careful not to get any glue on the part of the shell that will touch your skin, as it will be very hot.

Then, quickly attach the shell to the bangle bracelet. Hold it in place for a few seconds until the glue sets.

Repeat this process until all of the shells are attached to the bangles. 

Finishing Touches & Customizing Your Bracelet

Now that your bracelet is put together, it’s time to add the finishing touches. This is your chance to personalize and customize your bracelet and make it unique.

One way to do this is to use different kinds of shells. You can add a special significance by selecting shells from the beach or other places you have fond memories of. For example, you can use spiral shells if you go on holiday to the coast, ridged cowrie shells for a family vacation, or scallop shells for a romantic getaway. You could even give this as a gift that carries with it the memories of a special place in time or person in your life.

Another detail you can add to customize your bracelet is charms or beads. You could pick charms from your local craft store that have meaning for you and link them onto separate pieces of wire, then thread them onto the ends of the bangle before fastening the clasp shut. Alternatively, you could glue some charm beads into place with clear adhesive and let them dry overnight so they’re secure and won’t move around too much when you wear them.

Different Styles of Shell Bangle Bracelets

Shell bangle bracelets come in so many different styles. To make a bold and simple statement, you can make an intricately beaded bracelet with tiny or thicker shells. You could also try threading the shells onto leather for a cool and unique look.

You can also mix and match materials to create an eclectic statement piece that showcases your style. Try pairing wooden beads with seashells for a natural look, or combine pearls and metal charms to create a more glamorous design. The possibilities are endless!

Whatever style you choose, remember: Have fun with it! Experiment and let your creativity shine through.

Tips & Tricks for Making a Shell Bangle Bracelet

Now that you’re ready with all the supplies and tools, it’s time to get crafting! Here are some tips and tricks to make sure your shell bangle bracelet comes out looking fabulous.

• First, use a measuring tape around your wrist and then use the measurement when determining the size of your bangle.
• Next, drill small holes in the shells before threading them onto a beading wire. To ensure the wire passes through quickly, use a needle to guide it through the hole in each shell.
• When attaching charms or pendants, be sure to use jump rings to add and remove them as desired easily.
• If you’re using a lobster clasp for closure, attach it at least 5 inches from where you begin threading on the shells. This will give you enough room to move closer to increase comfort once your bracelet is finished.
• Finally, use chain nose pliers to gently press down flat each of the crimp beads along the bracelet as you go along. This will help ensure a secure fit!

Adjust the Clasp and Size of Your Bracelet

Once you have strung all your shells onto the beading wire, it’s time to connect the two ends with a clasp. Here, you have a few options. You can use a toggle clasp or a lobster clasp, or if you want a more secure closure, you can use a magnetic clasp. For this project, we opted for a toggle clasp because it looks better with our shells.

Once your clasp is secure, try your bracelet on and determine its length. If it’s too big, string some extra shells or cut off excess beading wire and then re-attach the clasp. You can make yours as long or as short as you like! 

How to Care for Your Shell Bangle Bracelets?

Now that you know how to make bangle bracelets with shells let’s talk about how to care for them.

Shells are delicate and can easily be scratched or damaged if not cared for properly. Try to avoid storing them in a moist environment, as this will cause them to become brittle over time and could break or chip. Also, try not to expose your bracelets to harsh chemicals, including hairspray, perfume and lotions, as this can damage the shells.

Use a soft cloth and warm soapy water to clean your shell bangle bracelets. Gently wipe the shells with the fabric and rinse them in warm water. Allow the bracelet to dry naturally. Avoid using any harsh detergents or scrubbing motions that could damage the shells.

READ MORE: How Much Does Custom Jewelry Cost?

Finally, keep your bracelets away from direct sunlight, as this can bleach and fade the colours of natural materials like shells. With proper care and cleaning, your shell bangle bracelets should last many years!

Conclusion

So, that’s how you make bangle bracelets with shells! It’s a fun and easy project; you can make them as straightforward or as complicated as you want. Gather up some shells, beads, and wire, and you’re all set.

Now that you know how to make bangle bracelets with shells, why not try making some for yourself? They make great gifts, too. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could make a necklace or a choker out of shells. Just let your imagination run wild, and see what you can create!