Mystery Braid bracelet

[wolvenstien]

Is there a guide to measuring the raw leather before you braid it to make it an exact size once it is braided?

Say i want a finished bracelet that measures 6 inch, 1/2 inch on each end normal, and the inside 5 inches would be braided. I know that the leather would be shortened once braided so thats why i am asking.

Thanks

[ferret]

Depends on the thickness of the leather and the width, it can vary from 1 1/2 to twice the length of the finished article. For the example you've given cut an 11" strap, make 2 slits 7 1/2" and braid it. Measure the braid, if it's the right length cut off the excess strap, if it's too short undo the braid and make the slits longer.

Edited January 24, 2009 by ferret

[wolvenstien]

So there isnt a formula? There has to be waste?

[ferret]

There's no formula I can find, theres an article here but it doesn't give exact measurements for the finished article.

[Timd]

Here's a link for a belt where he says it will shrink 1" for 1' http://home.alltel.net/henryh/Leather-Belt.html so maybe figure add a 1/2"or so?

[wolvenstien]

thanks guys. those helped out alot.