For those wondering, this is MY version two, not Harry's version two. Version one failed horribly, but it did help me figure this one out, so I guess that's something.


So, because I'm crazy and stupid and in denial of the fact that I look NOTHING like the most awesome wizard named Harry, I decided to throw together a Harry Dresden costume for FanimeCon in San Jose next week. After roughly a week, the only major thing I'm missing is Harry's necklace. So, while I work on the rest of it, I thought I'd show off the first bit of jewelry I've ever made, my version of Harry's shield bracelet.

So, obviously, this isn't quite accurate to either version of the bracelet, but not for lack of trying. After looking around a lot of places for the best-looking chain (in particular, there was one shield bracelet based around a byzantine knot bracelet that I thought was almost perfect), I decided to just make it myself. I got all the materials from Joann's Fabrics, which consists of a chain, a bunch of celtic-looking buttons and a few star/pentagram buttons, and a clasp. Oh, and a handful of stuff I didn't end up using. I figured these buttons at least looked like a round shield design enough to fudge it. I'll be visiting another crafts store today to see if they have some shield-shaped buttons I can add to it, though it's pretty cramped as it is. The main bracelet is made of three identical parallel lengths of chain, stabilized by a bunch of little links that are also holding the buttons on.

If I do end up making a version 3, I hope to make it more stable and accurate to the book version. I'm also thinking about getting a TV-show inspired leather wrist band for my left wrist to cover up the pale area on my arm created by wearing a wristwatch since first grade. This was a pain in the neck to do, but at the same time, kind of fun. And again, not bad for the first piece of jewelry I've ever made. Any pointers for upgrades/refinements from people who have done this before? I'd love to hear them.

Me wearing it.