If you’re in the second category or just happen to have a few old timepieces you don’t want to throw away, you’re in the right place. We’ll explore eight ways to customize your ordinary watch into a statement piece.
1. Leather Cuff Watch Band
The easiest, most effective way to give any wristwatch a new, unconventional look is by switching out the strap for a better option like leather. A leather cuff watch band is far more comfortable than a metallic one because it stretches slightly to offer a better fit. Plus, it looks more formal and complements any outfit. Also, as shown in this Instructables tutorial by KentsOkay, it won’t require you to have any watchmaking expertise to customize your timepiece.
To match the standards of your new quality watch, check out these DIY Apple watch charging stands you can easily build, which can also be used with standard watches.
2. Fabric Watch Strap Cover
Timepieces from fabric watch band brands like Timex, Archer, and Ritche are no doubt stunning, but the price tag, well, not so much. Luckily, you don’t need to blow hundreds of dollars to own one, as you can always customize your watch at home with a fabric strap. And it’s a pretty straightforward project as you only need the fabric (4" x 8"), sewing thread, a snap fastener, a pen, paper and ruler, a needle, and some pins. Check out the steps to completing this project on Instructables by kicking_k.
3. Scrap Material Watch Band
Got a stash full of fabric that you want to reuse instead of throwing away? Sew some of the fabric ends together to create a watch band you’ll never spot on anyone else. It’s also an excellent way to put to good use that dress you love so much but is too worn out to wear. And you need not be a seamstress to put it together. Simply thread the scrap material through the lugs on the watch face, and wind it around your wrist. The best part? You can make as many scrap material watch bands as you please, as shown by smith0crystal on Instructables.
4. Stylish Scarf Watches
From a simple toss and tuck, basic drape to the cowl, there are nearly endless ways to rock your favorite scarf, but the easiest way to make it stand out is using it to customize your watch strap, as done by Misel Saban at Trendhunter. Not only will you get to show off your favorite scarf, but you’ll also turn your watch into an instant statement piece. It’s especially perfect if you struggle to find perfectly fitting watches because of your tiny wrist. Even better, it’s removable, so you can always swap between different scarves to create unique timepieces that are chic and a fashionable fit for your outfits.
5. Colorful Watch Band
If you love your timepieces and other accessories bright and colorful, this DIY faux leather watchband is as vibrant as they come. And it’s made from faux leather strips, so its durability is no question. Like other custom watch options on our list, it’s pretty easy to make. You won’t be blowing your budget either because, besides the watch face, you’ll only need seven faux leather strips (in your favorite colors) and a clipboard to hold them in place when you weave, plus end clasps and attachment clasps. Check out Emilia Lew’s tutorial at S.T.E.L. to complete this project successfully.
6. Make Watch Wrap Bracelets
Wrap bracelets are all the rage nowadays, but you don’t have to wear them the old-school way. Turn your favorite wrap bracelet into a watchband to hit two birds with one stone: you’ll have a unique wrap bracelet and a functional timepiece. The best part? You can update all watch faces sitting in your jewelry organizer or use one watch face with different wrap bracelets to achieve the perfect, color-coordinated look. Simply follow this tutorial by Misty Spinney on Brit+Co to complete this project.
7. Glitter Watch Band
Got a couple of watches you rarely wear but want to put to good use by turning them into statement pieces for specific occasions such as brunch with the girls or your birthday? Using a sponge brush, generously cover the watch band with decoupage, followed by glitter, to transform your rarely worn timepiece into an instant head-turner and a piece you’ll want to rock at every special occasion. Aniko shows us how to do this project like a pro in a few easy steps on her Place of My Taste blog.
8. Charm Watch Knockoff
Why spend your hard-earned bucks on a charm watch when you can easily make yours at home? Besides the watch face, you’ll need a skinny belt, assorted chains, charms, jump rings and a pair of lobster clasps, a hammer, ⅛" punch, rivets, and this simple step-by-step tutorial on Flamingo Toes to make one.
The best bit about this project is that you can use any color combinations you fancy to create an inimitable charm watch knockoff even Rolex will envy. Here are some more DIY smartwatch projects you can try out.
9. Braided Watch Strap
Don’t want to wear a basic-looking watch but have limited time and skills to make DIY watches? Simply secure your watch face you’re trying to customize on a solid surface using tape, knot two pieces of twine (25 inches long) onto one of its lugs , and start braiding. You’ll have an incredible, unique braided wristwatch with a rustic aesthetic. You may alternatively use colored twine. Check out this tutorial by Claire on Wrapped Up In Rainbows to complete this project.
10. Paracord Watch Band
Fancy flashy bling over neutral or warm-colored accessories? A DIY paracord watch band will ideally suit you. Paracords come in nearly all colors, meaning you can play with any color combination to turn your ordinary watch into an instant fashion statement. Paracords are also durable and can come in handy if you forget your tent lines and are camping miles away from civilization, as all you need to do is unweave the watch band. Cukebook on Instructables shows us how to easily complete this project.
Customizing Your Timepieces
Long gone are the days when you had to throw away your wristwatch. Nowadays, you can easily customize the watch band to create an entirely different, unique-looking timepiece. And you don’t have to spend even a dime because, as shown above, you can reuse and customize almost anything, from scrap materials and scarves to twine, into a watch band. Don’t hesitate to use these ideas for inspiration, or just follow the tutorials to customize your ordinary watch into a statement piece.
