When a client sent me their broken bracelet—fraying, falling apart, and barely holding on—I knew I had a chance to turn a worn-out piece into something deeply personal and beautifully handcrafted. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through my process of braiding a 6-strand kangaroo leather cord around a 2mm core and transforming that old hardware into a brand-new custom bracelet they now love.
Why Kangaroo Leather?
Kangaroo lace is known for its strength, thinness, and flexibility—ideal for intricate braiding. When working with six strands, especially around a core, you get a round, tight, and elegant finish that’s perfect for bracelets, necklaces, and other artisan accessories.
The Project: Restore & Reimagine
My client’s bracelet was falling apart, but the original hardware—especially the unique, log-style focal bead (which I jokingly called a “pendant” in the video)—was in great condition. Instead of discarding the entire piece, we decided to reuse the hardware and create a new braided cord to breathe life into it again.
The Technique: 6-Strand Braid Around a Core
In my YouTube tutorial, I demonstrate step-by-step how I:
- Secure the 2mm core
- Weave six strands of kangaroo lace around it with clean, even tension
- Use voiceover to explain finger positioning and braiding rhythm
- Introduce a surprising tool—a spoodle!—to smooth the cord and give it a polished look
This isn’t your average leather braiding tutorial. I share my artisan process, insider techniques, and the finishing steps to reattach the hardware and complete the transformation.
The Result: A Custom Bracelet with Soul
Once the braid was smooth and the hardware back in place, the difference was night and day. The final piece has durability, sophistication, and a handcrafted edge that reflects both the past and present of the original bracelet.
Watch the Full Tutorial
If you’re interested in advanced leather braiding techniques, custom restoration projects, or how to breathe new life into old jewelry, this video is a must-watch.
👉 Click here to watch the video
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