How to measure for size

The first step in measuring for a turks head bracelet is to determine the "slip-on" size. This is the minimum circumference that is needed to slip the bracelet on over your hand. Wrists are generally smaller than the hands so almost any bracelet that will slip on will also be a bit loose on your wrist.

This is done by squeezing your thumb and little finger together as shown on the left, then taking a measurement around the larger part of your hand.

Using a tape measure (or a piece of string) wrap the tape around the "fat" part of your hand. Usually this is the area between your thumb muscle and your knuckles.

If you use string, wrap the string around as shown then lay it flat and measure using a ruler or yardstick.

I have larger hands so this measurement for me is around 10". I can squeeze into a 8 3/8" circumference bracelet without injury.

Repeat this step several times until you have a consistent measurement. Use this measurement to check the inside circumference size posted on the listings.

Note that most of the turks head bracelets shown will have some give to them enabling them to stretch enough for you to squeeze through. The measurements posted are taken with the bracelets in a relaxed (un-stretched) condition.

cotton turks head bracelet 12 x 5 x 3

Here is a smaller 12 bight x 5 part x 3 strand bracelet made with 3 mm cord braided. This example has been worked up to a finished condition and measures 2" inside diameter roughly 6" inside circumference. The weave is about 1 1/8" wide.

This size would work well for a child or an adult with a smaller hand.

This design can also be left in a more relaxed condition which would enable placement over a larger hand.

The loose ends shown in the photos illustrate the fact that each of these bracelets is made with a single piece of cord.
check your slip-on size click here then select your favorite from one of these online shops:
WhatKnotShop on Etsy
WhatKnotShop on Zibbet

cotton cord materials used to make rope bracelets, a comparison

The photo on the left shows two traditional rope bracelets of the same design (14 bights x 3 parts x 3 strands) made from two different cotton cords:

The bracelet on the left is made from a 3 mm cotton cord which has a smooth micro-woven surface. The bracelet on the right is made from a #72 cotton cable cord which looks like a piece of rope with the three part twisted lay. (click on the image for a close up view)

The cable cord imparts a more traditional look to the bracelet. It actually is a smaller version of the larger ropes used on traditional sailing vessels and still in use today. The twisted three part construction adds another layer of "ropiness" to the look of the finished piece. Small imperfections in the string add to the authentic look of bracelets made with this material.

The smooth braided cotton cord has a cleaner look and works well in bracelets made with multiple parts and wider designs. The smoother surface makes the pattern of the bights and parts is easier to see in larger more complex patterns. The natural cotton color is an off-white or "ivory" color which is less bright than a white nylon.

Kits with instructions as well as bulk cord is available in a variety of colors including the traditional white shown here. Please visit one of the on-line shops to see both materials and finished bracelets:

WhatKnotShop on Etsy

WhatKnotShop on Zibbet