How to Make a Pop Tab Wristband

Co-authored by Joy Cho

Last Updated: May 6, 2021

Before you recycle those cans, you might want to pull off those tabs and make something new from them, like a simple pop tab bracelet or, if you have plenty of tabs, one of these unique wristbands.

Steps

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If you alternate placing the tops back to front so that the backs of the top layer and the backs of the bottom layer are facing, it will reduce irritation on your skin.
They must be at least 24 inches (61cm) long to provide enough length for you to tie knots at the ends.

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Tie the two cords together with approximately 2 inch (5cm) tails.
Take the second cord and thread it up through the bottom hole.
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Do the same with the bottom string, through the bottom hole.
- Pull the cords tightly through the tabs––this gives it the layered look.
Overlap a third tab on the second one (touching the first tab)
Thread the top cord over the first and third tabs, through the third tab's top hole and down through the second tab's top hole.
Continue with this pattern until the bracelet is as long as you need it, alternating back and forth between threading the cords from the back and front.
Cut the ends to approximately two inches (5cm).

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Question

How many tabs do I need?

Community Answer

It depends on what size you want the wristband to be.

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Question

How much does it cost to make?

Beth H.

Community Answer

It costs as much as a 12 cans of soda.

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Question

How many pop tabs do I need?

Community Answer

I used 19 (I have small wrists), but anywhere from 17 to 23 should be fine.

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Tips

To make the bracelet even more involved, try adding different elements, such as colored tabs or stones, beads, etc.

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Cut down on scratching by facing the backs of the tabs into the interior of the bracelet. This keeps the shiny smooth side on the outside. It also makes the entire bracelet reversible because both sides will have the shiny smooth side on the outside. One side will have Xs, one will have lines!

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Add a bead on one end and tie a loop on the other for an easily-removable bracelet.

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Warnings

Be careful when wearing the bracelet or sliding it on and off. The backs of the tabs can scratch. To prevent this you can cover the back with sports tape to protect your skin from the sharp edges.

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