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Loom bands are colorful, stretchy rubber bands that come in various colors. This guide tells you how to make a rubber band bracelet with loom bands
I was at my local craft store earlier this week and I came across loom bands.
They were very intriguing and looked simple enough. Right away, I thought of creating easy DIY bracelets for my daughters.
Supplies You'll Need to Create this Project:
These are often called rainbow loom bracelets, but you don't use a loom for this pattern—only your fingers.
Instructions:
- Take the small rubber band, flatten it into an oval with your fingers, and put it through the C-clip.
- Take another small rubber band, flatten it again, and put it through the two loops from the previous band.
- Continue with small rubber bands until you have the desired length, then take the 2 loops of the last band and put them into the C-clip.
It is really that easy!
The package came with a crochet needle, but we all found it more confusing to use than fingers.
All three of my girls made one and had a lot of fun making their own single-chain bracelets.
This simple chain design is great for younger kids. My youngest is 8, and she was a little frustrated to get started, but once she figured it out, she made several with no problem. Now she has new skills!
They even made some matching bracelets for their teddy bears!
My girls also made a few rubber band friendship bracelets for each best friend at school so they can all have matching bracelets.
I never did learn how to make the fancy braided friendship bracelets, but I think these are much easier. Plus, they are pretty cute, too! Plus, they make great gifts for friends.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are loom bands?
Loom bands are mini elastic bands that are really pretty small. You can stretch these colorful rubber bands to fit over your finger but not much more.
Where do you buy loom bands?
You can find loom bands at any local craft store, like Hobby Lobby or Michaels Stores. They are usually in the kid's crafts section.
Amazon is also a great option. There, you can find a wide variety of loom bands and other tools, such as a weaving loom and hooks.
How much are loom bands?
They are inexpensive, but that doesn't mean you should buy the cheapest set.
Some loom bands are very poor quality and break easily. They are usually really thin bands.
I like this loom kit from Amazon. It is good quality and not expensive, and they even come with charms!
Do you need a special hook?
The hook is a crochet hook, so you don't need a loom band hook.
Although, stay away from the larger crochet hooks. They don't work well with small bands.
Can you buy just the plastic C clips?
Yes, you can!
I really like these C clips that come in a rainbow of colors. They are so pretty!
How many rainbow loom bands does it take to make a bracelet?
For this colorful bracelet, you would need about 25 loom bands.
But feel free to use more or less for the perfect fit.
How do you finish the ends of a rubber band bracelet?
In the very first step, you start with a C-clip. When the bracelet is the desired length, bring the clip around and attach it to the last rubber band loop, bringing the ends of the bracelet together.
Walah, your bracelet is finished, and your wrist has a fancy new bracelet!
Are there different patterns you can make?
Yes! There are many different designs and instructions for making different types of bracelets. Some have a more complex design, while others have more easy rainbow loom bracelet designs.
For more great ideas, type "loom band bracelet" in your search browser. You can find many tutorials showing you how to make the different bracelets. Just make sure they offer clear instructions so you don't get frustrated.
How do you make a fishtail rubber band bracelet?
The fishtail is another popular style of loom bracelet, and guess what? I have a tutorial!
How to Make a Fishtail Bracelet.
Jewelry Making Essentials
- Jewelry Pliers are a necessity when it comes to jewelry making.
- Good quality Jump Rings are a necessity in many different sizes and metals.
- A Non-slip Bead Mat keeps your beads, findings, and tools in front of you without rolling away!
- The more you DIY Jewelry, the more little beads and things you will accumulate. Keep them organized with Plastic Organizer Containers.
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Boni
These are so cute! I bet my daughter would love to make these. I will have to go look for that kit this weekend. Just came across your blog! I love it. Thanks for sharing. 🙂
Gina Wamsley
These look like fun! I'll have to check them out! Thanks for sharing!
Gina
Diana - FreeStyleMama
Cute! Great idea for scouts!
Julie Corbisiero
Hi, we have the rainbow loom at home and my daughter loves making them. My husband and I even wear them. You idea is great! I saw it on memories by the mile link party.
Julie from julieslifestyle.blogspot.com
Cathy
These are really cute and I think my granddaughters would love them... Thanks for sharing - found you through the Brag About It Link Party....
Tammy N
Such a cute and colorful craft for kids!
Jennifer
I keep seeing these, and the racks and racks of bands, everywhere and have been wondering how they are made. I saw looms that make more complicated designs, too, but now that I know they use little plastic clips, it makes SO MUCH more sense! I kept wondering how they end and begin! Thanks for sharing 🙂
Sandi
where did you find the clips? I haven't found them separate from the rubber bands.
Katie Adams
I have only been able to find the clips with the bands as well.
concretenprimroses
Very cute. TFS.
Kathy
Lisa FlourMeWithLove
These are too cute and I know my daughter would love them! I hope I can find them at the store. Thanks for sharing at Mix it up Monday 🙂
Tori Grant
Super cute I love friendship bracelets. It brings me back to 5th grade:) Thanks for sharing at Tell Me Tuesday. Your being featured this week!
Miranda @ Someday Crafts
Thanks for sharing at Whatever Goes Wednesday. These looks so fun and cute! This was the most viewed link at last week's party, so we'll be highlighting this at the next party tomorrow! We hope you'll stop by and party with us again!
Jessica
Thank you so much for sharing your craft on last weeks Thrifty Thursday! I have Featured your post this week, and we hope you will share again!
http://healthyhiggins.blogspot.com/2013/09/16-weeks-and-counting.html
Aubrey Corcoran
Where did you buy the rubber bands? how much were they?
Katie Adams
I bought them at JoAnn's. They were like about $4 for the bag of bands and clasps.
Enjoying the Epiphany
Hi! I am your newest follower... saw you on the blog hop. Cute bracelets!!
Have a lovely Sunday!
-Sarah
Porter Daniel
Thanks
Kay Grenz
A friends granddaughter loves making these cute rubber band bracelets. She can't find the clear clips. Where can you buy them with out buying the compete kits? she has lots of rubber bands. Thank you, Kay
Katie
I have only been able to find the small plastic clasps with the bands. I have never been able to find them separate either. I apologize that I can't help.