When choosing the design for the bracelet, a simple border pattern or repeated small motif will work best. Another option is to add your initials or a small back stitch saying to cross stitch background.
After choosing the pattern, carefully cut the plastic canvas to the proper size. Check the pattern for the width of the bracelet. To determine the length, measure your wrist or wrap the piece of canvas around it. The canvas will need to overlap slightly (about 1/2 inch).
If the bracelet for someone else and you are not certain of the measurement, don't panic. Adjust the button fastener as needed to ensure a proper fit.
Trim the edges of the canvas and stitch the design. I used six strands of floss for cross stitch and three for back stitch. Be sure to separate the strands to ensure better coverage.
Use the loop method to start the floss. When securing the floss, run a long tail under the back of the stitches to ensure that it will not become loose with wear.
Depending on the design you have chosen and the length of your bracelet, more than one skein of floss may be needed per color.
Finish the edge of the bracelet by whip-stitching the edge with six or more strands of floss.
For my bracelet, I whipped the edge in one direction with six-strands. Because more plastic canvas was visible than desired, I added a second layer of whip-stitching in the opposite direction.
When the stitching is complete, check your work to make sure all the floss ends are secured.
Create a fastener for your bracelet. I used a button and a loop of floss. The placement of the button and loop are visible in this image of the Sideways Heart Border bracelet.
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