What’s the difference between bracelet length and bracelet size?
An average size bracelet is 7 ½. But, that doesn’t mean the bracelet is 7 ½ inches long. That means that the inside circumference of the bracelet is 7 ½ inches.
Huh???
Stick with me on this…. If I use 12mm beads to make a bracelet that is 7 ½ inches long, the inside circumference will be much smaller than if I use tiny, 6mm beads. Keep in mind that the beads themselves take up space on the inside circumference, making the inside measurement smaller than the length when laid out flat. So, if I make both bracelets 7 ½ inches long, one will fit you nicely and the other one will not.
Now you’re probably asking: so, how do I find my bracelet size? Follow these simple instructions to measure your wrist so you can be sure your bracelets will fit you properly.
Use a flexible measuring tape to measure just above (towards your elbow) your wrist bone, then add 1/4" to 1" (1/2" is average) depending on how tight you like your bracelets to fit. That measurement is your bracelet size.
Tip: If you don't have a flexible tape measure handy, use a strip of paper or ribbon, and mark it where it overlaps on your wrist. Then lay the strip flat to measure up to the mark using any ruler.
Tip: It's important to use a flat, flexible tape measure or strip of paper/ribbon because the actual length is not the most important thing, it's the inner diameter when the bracelet is closed. For a bracelet to fit properly, the inner diameter of the bracelet needs to match the outer circumference of your wrist. A flexible tape measure, strip of paper or ribbon works best because it's not bulky, so the inner circumference is virtually the same as the length when laid flat. Using bulky things to measure (like other bracelets, beaded things, chains, etc.) can cause the problem of the length when laid flat not to be the same as the inner circumference when worn.
