How to Make a Mesh Chain and Charm Belt

by Kirsten Nunez

Metal waist belts make the ultimate festival fashion accessory.

How to Make a Mesh Chain and Charm Belt

Embellish your favorite dress with a bohemian-inspired chain and charm belt. This accessory makes a bold statement by itself, so your outfit needs little to no additional jewelry.

Things You'll Need

Materials needed to make a mesh and charm belt.
  • Mesh chain (The mesh chain should be long enough to fit around your waist plus 2 inches.)
  • Strong craft glue
  • Safety pin
  • Large lobster clasps (2)
  • Key chain rings (2)
  • 7- or 8-mm jump rings
  • Lightweight charms
  • Cutting mat
  • Jewelry pliers
  • Scissors
Step 1
Place the chain on a cutting mat to protect your work surface.

Open the safety pin. Position it on top of the chain, 1 inch from the end and 1/8 inch from the bottom.

Step 2
Use caution when piercing the chain.

Push the safety pin down until it pierces the chain.

Step 3
To open a jump ring, bend the ends away from each other.

Open a jump ring with the jewelry pliers.

Step 4
Carefully slide the jump ring through the mesh chain.

Attach the jump ring to the hole.

Step 5
Attach a charm.

Add a charm to the jump ring.

Step 6
Close a jump ring by bending the ends towards each other.

Close the jump ring. For extra security, slide the ends past each other.

Step 7
The charms can be placed as closely as you like.

Continue adding charms by repeating Steps 1 through 6. Stop adding charms 1 inch from the opposite end.

Step 8
Open a key ring and add a clasp.

Add one large clasp to one key chain ring.

Step 9
Half an inch should fold over the key ring.

Position the chain "wrong" side facing up. Fold the end of the chain around the key ring to make sure 1/2 inch folds over the key ring.

Step 10
Glue in place.

Add glue 1/2 inch from the end. Be sure to apply glue in a well-ventilated area.

Step 11
A binder clip is useful for holding mesh chain in place while glue dries.

Fold the end of the chain over the key ring and onto the glue. Leave it to dry completely. Use a binder clip to secure the end of the chain if needed. Repeat Steps 8 through 11 at the opposite end of the chain.

Tips for Making a Mesh Chain and Charm Belt

Rock your custom-made belt.

Hook the two clasps together when you are ready to wear your belt.

For best results, use lightweight charms in a thin, simple shape. Mix and match charms for a custom look.

Photo Credits

  • How to Make a Mesh Chain and Charm Belt

About the Author

Kirsten Nunez is a lifestyle writer and author focusing on crafts, creativity and health. Since 2010, she has been sharing DIY projects at WildAmor.com (formerly Studs & Pearls). In May 2014, she published a craft book, "Studs & Pearls: 30 Creative Projects for Customized Fashion." She lives in San Francisco.