Pink Tape Measure Bracelets
By Lisa Kettell

I'm obsessed with vintage rulers, tape measures and metric sticks, they can have so many different functions outside of measuring objects or patterns. They can be broken down to make frames, cover a frame, frame stands, lamp shades, chandeliers, photocopied to decaupage furniture, canvas, scrapbooking, various paper projects, used in steampunk projects, cover a box, turned into ribbon, wands, and jewelry.


The project I created is another version of the hardware store, measure tape, only this one is seamstress/sewing measuring tape which is a fiberglass fabric material used in measuring patterns and details for sewing, where hardware store measuring tape is more metal/aluminum in texture. Seamstress Measuring tapes usually come in a variety of colors, I have seen violet, magenta, orange, yellow, green, blue and pink which I am using today.


This project has been thought up in many ways around the internet from various talented artists, this is my version of an up-cycled classic using snaps, buttons and broken jewels. What I like about using the seamstress measuring tape is that you can sew through it and its easier to work with then the hardward store version.


Materials

-60” Tape Measure, pink/fiberglass By Singer

-Adhesive Buttons, antique green By Studio G

-5/8” Snap Attacher Tool 

-5/8” Snaps

-Scissors By Westcott

-Standard one hole puncher

-Quick Grip By Beacon Adhesive

-Other: Broken jewels, clip earrings, rhinestones, charms, ribbons, trims

Directions
1. Measure your wrist, leaving an extra 1 1/2 inch room for applying the snaps. My wrist measured 7 inches, I cut an 8 1/2 inch piece from the tape measure.
2. Punch 1 hole at each end of the cut tape measure, leaving 1/2 inch room from the edge.
3. Attach snaps according to package directions (really simple).
4. Begin decorating your bracelets with buttons, rhinestones, clip earrings, embellishments of your choice. I glued everything w/quick grip for a sturdy hold.

Tips/Tricks
-When doing this project with children, use a sturdy tacky glue for more safety, Beacon Adhesives offers a fab glue: Kids Choice Glue, which I use in many projects as well.
-Cut a wide piece of cross stitch fabric and attach 3 strips of measuring tape side by side to it, attach in place with Fabri-Tac, apply snaps at each end for a larger style cuff.
-Add charms or handmade embellishments to the bracelets.
-Cut them into 2 inch pieces, add ribbon claws at each end and connect w/jewels/pearls for a necklace.
-Turn Long strips into purse straps.
-Cut off the handles of a craft store muslin tote, and add the measuring tape.
-Turn into a headband.

The possibilities are endless, I can't wait to see what you make! Hope this inspired you to recycled some measuring tape and make some fun recycled jewelry!
xoxo
Lisa!

Up-Cycled Ruler Frame!
Up-cycled Frame!
Here is a frame I up-cycled using a wood frame, photocopies of vintage rulers, hardware and glue.

Materials:
-Wood frame
-Vintage ruler photocopies or originals
-Vintage or modern metal hardware/findings
-Mod Podge or decaupage medium of choice
-Matte sealer
-Epoxy glue
-Foam brush or paint brush
-Scissors

Directions:
1. Cut ruler images to fit frame, glue in place with mod podge using a foam brush, let dry.
2. Apply matte sealer or finish of choice using foam brush or paint brush, let dry.
3. Attach hardware to frame corners using epoxy glue, let set about 10 minutes.
4. Insert vintage or modern photograph into your frame and enjoy.

Tips:
-Use original vintage rulers instead of photocopies, glue to frame w/epoxy glue or clear caulk.
-Use measuring tape instead of rulers.
-Age frame with antiquing medium.
-Jazz up frames w/steampunk pieces, rhinestones or broken jewelry.