Experience Level: Beginner
Pop tabs: washed and cleaned, approximately 20
Elastic cord: two lengths, each approximately 12"
Small binder clips
Optional: charms
Note: Work with an even number of pop tabs, ensuring the center ring on each top pop tab is removed. Each tab has a smooth side and a rough side—position the rough side on the inside so the smooth side sits against your skin.
1. Secure the leftmost ends of the two elastic cord lengths with a binder clip, leaving space between them.
2. Overlap the first two tabs (rough sides together). Thread the top elastic through the top holes (front to back), then pull it through the overlap. Repeat with the bottom elastic through the bottom holes. Slide the tabs left to rest about 1/2" from the looped ends.
3. Add the third tab next to the first (rough side in). Thread the top elastic through the bottom overlap of the second and third tabs (front to back). Thread the bottom elastic through the top overlap. The cords will now crisscross. Ensure tabs curl up neatly together.
4. Flip the assembly. Add the fourth tab next to the second (rough side in). Thread the top elastic through the top overlap of the third and fourth tabs (front to back). Repeat with the bottom elastic in the bottom overlap. Cords on this side will be parallel.
5. Flip again. Add the fifth tab next to the third (rough side in). Thread the top elastic through the bottom overlap of the fourth and fifth tabs (front to back). Thread the bottom elastic through the top overlap.
6. Continue this pattern—alternating crisscross on one side and parallel on the other—until you've added all 20 tabs. (Test the fit around your wrist; add more tabs if needed, keeping the total even.)
7. Fold the bracelet to connect the ends, overlapping the far left and right tabs. Hold in place.
8. Remove the binder clip from one end. Thread the top and bottom elastic cords through the overlapping holes to close the bracelet. Tie off matching cord ends securely and trim excess. Rotate to hide the knots.
