DIY Nautical Rope Bracelet

Since it is summer and anything that has to do with the beach or boats is fascinating to me, this DIY rope bracelet with a gold anchor hook is an ideal must-have for any seafaring outfit this summer!

DIY NAUTICAL ROPE BRACELET:

* Thick rope (any color)

* Anchor charm

* Large cord crimps

* Some thin rope (for the bracelet fastener)

1. Measure the thicker rope by wrapping it once around your wrist, and add 1-2 inches to that length then cut. Repeat with a second piece of rope.
2. Take one of the pieces of rope, and bend it in half to create a loop. Slip a crimping bead over the loose rope ends and squeeze it tightly with pliers. This should fasten together the loose ends with the metal crimping bead.
3. Loop the second piece of rope and wrap it under and through the first piece of rope’s loop. Use the picture as reference. It looks much more complicated than it is!
4. Once the two pieces of rope are looped together, secure the loose ends of the second rope with another metal crimping bead. Before squeezing the bead closed, slip a looped piece of thinner rope in the bottom end and then press the crimping bead shut. This will be your bracelet fastener!
5. Take your anchor charm and tie the top to the end of your bracelet that doesn’t have the thinner piece of rope attached. This can be done by either sewing the charm in place or looping a thinner piece of rope through the end of the thicker rope. Whatever is easiest for you!

Eager to wear this new bracelet?  Visit my latest post for nautical outfit tips!

Tutorial and photo via A Blissful Dream

DIY American Flag Shorts!

Patriotism or just another fashion trend? The American flag has flown its way into the fashion world and caught my eye! It has imprinted itself onto denim, shirts, sweaters, accessories, and even shoes. I feel it is about time to add some trendy patriotism into my wardrobe, so the American flag denim short is going to be my next summer DIY project! Scroll down to find the materials and steps!

DIY AMERICAN FLAG DENIM SHORT:

* Denim cutoff shorts

* Felt adhesive stars

* Painters tape

* Fabric spray paint

The procedure is a bit self-explanatory (placing the stars and tape on the areas you do not want any color and spraying over it).  However, to create a more faded, vintage look, wash the shorts a few hours after painting (but do not forget to make sure the paint is completely dry to keep the colors looking brighter). These were quick, simple, and easy to make. See the picture below for more details!

 If you want to try a different look (like this new picture below), I would recommend all the same materials but advise paint instead of spray paint. Make sure you buy paints that will not bleed and read these Fabric Painting Tips to ensure you will get the best results for your shorts!

The stars and tape can again be used to mark the areas you do not want to paint at the moment, but making sure the paint stays on afterward (preforming the correct heat pressing and washing techniques) is the most important part! Again, see Fabric Painting Tips, they really help!

Once you are complete, welcome to the world of the ‘flag fashion’ trend!