DIY: Rope Bracelet

With the rising popularity of men's bracelets—love 'em or hate 'em—there have been a slew of brands who are doing their part to push polished men's accessories. Miansai, for example, has put out some really great stuff for dudes.

If you're like me, though, you don't exactly have a bunch of extra skrilla lying around to spend on bracelets. The next option is to take the do-it-yourself route. In this case, that route is easily traveled. Here's what you need:

• Cord rope - you'll inevitably have to buy more than you want. Grab some buddies, make friendship bracelets or something?
• Scissors
• Lighter

This process is incredibly simple, and if you've ever been to summer camp and know what's up, you can go ahead and tune out. For those of you haven't, start by cutting the rope to fit your wrist - allow yourself an extra centimeter or so, it'll get removed in the process. Do note, the rest of this procedure is easiest with the help of a partner, but feel free to try it on your own. After I've cut my rope to size, I like to slide a small piece of hardware on the rope to cover the knot that will soon close the bracelet, but it's not essential.

Next, burn the ends of the two ends of the rope with the lighter. The artificial fibers will catch flame and melt (this is where you lose that extra centimeter you accounted for).

After they've burned for a few seconds, blow them out and carefully place the rope around your wrist. Using wet fingers (the ends will still be hot), put the two burnt ends together. The waxy nylon will meld together with pressure.

If the 'knot' isn't ideal, alternate burning and molding it with wet fingers until it's to your liking.

At this point, I slide the bolt or spacer over the knot. Make sure that the opening in the hardware isn't too big, just big enough where you'll have to use some pressure to get the burnt knot inside. From there it will catch and be difficult to slide.

Voila! A brand new rope bracelet. Really, not all that difficult. Granted, it can't be taken off, but the fact that you have to wear it all the time means it will show its wear and tatter with time, not unlike your selvedge or Authentics.

Get creative with this stuff, people!

On Cameron: navy gingham winter-weight button down courtesy of Wharf; Submariner watch (eBayed new for $145) by Military Watch Company; handmade rope bracelets

Photos by Elizabeth Calvert.