Leather belts are one of the most common things you can find at a thrift store. Which makes them a GREAT craft material for upcycling ideas. And today, I’m making some decanter labels for home bar decor. They’re so easy to make and a great introduction to leather stamping, if you’ve never tried it before.
The main ingredient for this craft idea, though, is a leather belt (or two).
A full grain leather belt is ideal, as that is one made from the highest quality leather. In other words, it’s made from a single piece of leather and not two pieces fused together.
I’m no stranger to upcycling ideas associated with adult beverages. Remember these wine gift bags that I made?
But, those were for actual bottles of wine or liquor. These decanter tags are meant to be used on your prettiest decanters- thrifted or otherwise! AND these decanter labels are excellent as gifts, too!
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Upcycling a Leather Belt to Make Decanter Labels or Decanter Tags
First, I gathered my leather belt(s). I find that smooth, camel-colored belts work best for this kind of project.
Then, using a craft mat and a rotary cutter, I trimmed off a piece of leather belt to work with (approximately 4” in length).
Next, I “cased” the the piece of leather I planned to work with. Casing the leather helps it become supple which in turn improves the leather’s ability to take an impression (such as these alphabet stamps) from the leather stamping tools.
For a craft like this one, you simply need to rub the skin side (top) of your leather piece with a damp cloth/sponge, just enough to dampen it.
Once I had successfully stamped the liquor name on the leather, it was time to add eyelets on both sides of the decanter labels.
Using a hole punch, I punched holes in your leather on either side of the leather and inserted the eyelets (I used ¼” eyelets).
Then, I used an eyelet setter (same size as eyelets) and a mallet to secure them in the punched holes.
After that, I trimmed off excess leather on each end. Now it was time to add some chain to the decanter labels.
To finish up, I used a jump ring to connect one end of the decanter label with the chain.
Then, I used a small piece of tape to hold the tag on my decanter to figure out where to open up the chain at the other end.
Lastly, I used another jump ring to connect the chain to the other end of the liquor decanter tag, like a bracelet.
I used basic jewelry pliers (like this inexpensive kit) to cut chain, and open and close jump rings for this part of the project.
How to Make Decanter Labels from a Leather Belt for Home Bar Decor
And that was it! The first of my decanter labels from a leather belt was done!
I ended up making several decanter tags to create a set. They are perfect as home bar decor, or as gifts for him (Father’s Day, Christmas, etc.).
I just love how they ended up looking! And the great thing about upcycling some leather belts is that you have a lot of leather to to practice on.
Trust me, it took me a few tries to get the letters (relatively) straight, etc.
I’m also very excited to announce that my first book is now available! If you love working with flannel or fabric crafts in general (sewing and non-sewing), then you will LOVE “Crafting with Flannel”!
If you enjoyed this upcycling idea for a Father’s Day gift (or holiday gift for him), then you may also be interested in these beer coasters made from mini tart pans, as well!
Craft on!
S
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Sarah Ramberg is the owner of Sadie Seasongoods, a website that celebrates all things secondhand. From upcycling ideas and thrifted decor to vintage-centric travel itineraries, Sadie Seasongoods is a one-stop shop for anyone who loves thrifting and approachable repurposing ideas. Sarah is also the author of “Crafting with Flannel” and has been featured in numerous media outlets and magazines.
Thank you for sharing on #TheWeekendSocial ! Loved your blog post! have a great night!
XoXo
Heidy
This is a fantastic idea.
Thank you, C! I’ve got more future leather crafts on tap…can’t get enough!
What a cool idea! There may be some leather craft purchases in my future now 🙂
Be careful, Emily- it’s addictive! 😉
Love these! What kind of alphabet stamps are you using? I assume they’re metal. Where did you find those?
Very cool wine tag! Need to find a letter press — lots of fun could be made. Visiting from Inspiration Galore party.
Thank you so much!
Beautiful!! What a great idea – Thanks for sharing on the Pleasures of the NW’s DIY party!
I absolutely love these! I can’t believe just dampening the leather lets you stamp onto it—crazy!
Thank you so much, Bridget!
It is very cool and would be a great Father’s Day gift.
What a beautiful project, Sarah! I know a couple of people who would really love & appreciate something like this. Thank you for sharing with us at Funtastic Friday!
Thank you, Angie!
Ha! This is so neat! love this!!
I would love for you to share this with my Facebook Group for recipes, crafts, tips, and tricks: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pluckyrecipescraftstips/
Thanks for joining Cooking and Crafting with J & J!
Gah! I love this so much! I need to find cute decanter bottles and belts at the thrift store stat. And pick up those fun craft materials. So many possibilities and they look so cool. Definitely sharing <3
Thank you so much, Corinna!
Very retro. Love them. Thank you for sharing at Vintage Charm.
Thanks, Sharon!
What a great repurpose of leather belts Sarah!
Thank you, Keri!