Paracord Bracelets

Paracord, or survival, bracelets are a fashion trend among guys and gals of all ages.  These bracelets, made with several feet of paracord, superstrong military spec #550 test paracord, are a fashionable and popular way of symbolizing strength, honor, and the belief in American production. There are reports that some people unraveled  a bracelet in an emergency and used the cord to get out of some difficult situations.

The bracelets can be personalized in so many different ways by using different colors or combinations of colors, adding charms or school or other logos, or weaving them using one of many different weaves.

There are many other uses for the paracord weave in addition to bracelets. Because of their strength, they can also be made into dog collars, key fobs, belts, and necklaces.

The basic, and most widely used, paracord weave is the Solomon, or Cobra, weave. It is a very simple weave to learn and can incorporate two colors very easily.  Here is a video tutorial that I found very helpful in making a basic paracord bracelet.

If you are interested in learning about other weaves and perhaps trying them out, this web site has some wonderful tutorials with clear instructions on many different styles. http://www.boredparacord.com/

Here are some of the paracord designs that I have in my Etsy shop. Two of them use the Solomon weave. The third one uses a different design called the digi-cam weave.

I have also added charms and school logos to these bracelets, but you can let your imagination go wild with the many different add-ins you can use to make this type of bracelet your very own. By the way, guys really like these bracelets, too!

You can find these bracelets for sale in my Etsy shop in the team spirit section.  I can custom make one for you in your choice of colors and with a favorite logo or symbol if you wish.

Amethyst for February

Rich purple, the color of royalty, is the color of the gemstone amethyst which is February's birthstone. Members of the Jewelry on Etsy team have this stone well represented in their shops, so if you or a friend or loved one are celebrating a February birthday, be sure to visit these shops to see the many amethyst selections available.

Amethyst for February curated by Jewelry on Etsy Team on Etsy

What Are You Giving Your Sweetheart for Valentine's?

February is the month for love. It's a time to forget the cold, icy days of winter and warm the heart of that special someone who you love with a special gift that says "I love you", "I adore you," or "You're very special to me." Flowers, candy, cards--popular gifts, yes. But how about a gift that will last, one that she can look at and remember the occasion and the special person who gave it to her? How about a gift of jewelry? Yes, you can go to the local jewelry store and plop down a few thousand bucks for a diamond ring or bracelet. Don't have a few thousand? Consider your artisan jewelers--those who make handmade jewelry and who make it with love and careful attention to detail. Perhaps it will be a one-of-a-kind piece. How very special that would be! Here's a few ideas to get you started. These are pieces from my Etsy shop that were designed especially for Valentine's Day. But there are well over three hundred pieces of jewelry for you to choose from if the traditional heart-shaped jewelry isn't to
your liking.  Just visit my shop at www.NancysCrystalFantasy.etsy.com.


 
Swarovski Heart Necklace Pendant by NancysCrystalFantasy on Etsy


Lampwork Hearts Bracelet Pink and Green by NancysCrystalFantasy


Red Crystal Heart Bracelet Valentines Day by NancysCrystalFantasy


Red and Silver Hearts Bracelet Love by NancysCrystalFantasy