Add a custom touch to your favorite boots with a pair of double wrapped mystery braid boot straps. This beginner-friendly project combines simple strap work with a classic mystery braid technique to create a stylish accessory that's equally at home in western, biker or everyday fashion. With endless options for leather, hardware and decorative accents, it's easy to make this project uniquely your own.
What You'll Learn
- How to measure a boot for a custom fit
- How to create a mystery braid using a leather lace cutter
- How to cut and prepare straps, billets and keepers
- How to punch holes and shape strap ends
- How to install buckles, keepers, rivets and decorative bezels
- Tips for achieving a clean, consistent braid
Skill Level
Beginner
This project is perfect for leathercrafters looking to learn or practice the mystery braid technique while creating a functional accessory. Basic cutting, punching and riveting skills are helpful, but the project is approachable for most makers.
Tools & Materials
Materials
- 4-5 oz. Crazy Horse Leather or preferred leather
- 3/4" Heel Bar Buckles
- Small Double Cap Rivets
- Decorative Rivet Bezels
Tools
- Tape Measure
- Utility Knife or Head Knife
- Straight Edge
- Leather Lace Cutter
- Revolving Punch
- 3/4" English Point Punch
- 3/4" Round End Punch
- 3/4" Oblong Punch
- Small Rivet Setter
- Marble Slab or Solid Work Surface
Project Overview
Measure around your boot twice, seam to seam, then subtract 4" to determine the length of your braided strap. For the example shown in the video, a 32" boot measurement resulted in a 28" braided strap.
Cut two of each piece:
- Main Braided Strap: 3/4" wide x measured length minus 4"
- Tongue Side Billet: 3/4" x 4-1/2"
- Buckle Side Billet: 3/4" x 4"
- Keeper: 3/8" x 2-3/4"
Project Steps
1. Measure and Cut the Leather
Measure your boot, determine the finished strap length and cut the braided straps, billets and keepers according to the pattern dimensions.
2. Mark and Punch the Holes
Transfer the hole locations to each piece, then use a revolving punch to create rivet holes and adjustment holes.
3. Create the Mystery Braid
Cut the braid slits into the main straps using a leather lace cutter and complete the mystery braid. Adjust and tighten the braid as needed for a consistent appearance.
4. Shape the Ends and Prepare the Hardware
Round the strap ends, punch the buckle slots and prepare the keepers, buckles and decorative hardware for assembly.
5. Assemble the Boot Straps
Install the keepers, attach the buckles and secure the billets to the braided straps using rivets and bezels.
6. Fit and Adjust
Wrap the finished boot straps around your boots with the hardware positioned on the outside and adjust for the desired fit and drape.
Make It Your Own
One of the best things about this project is how easily it can be customized. Use Crazy Horse leather for a classic look, experiment with colorful chrome-tanned leathers, add embossed or printed accents, or change hardware finishes to create a style that's uniquely yours.
Watch the full video tutorial for detailed instruction, braiding techniques and Chuck's tips for achieving the best results.
50% off
Regular price $19.20Unit price
