How to Repair an Expansion Metal Stretch Link Bracelet

Bracelets with expansion bands can be extended or shortened to fit properly. These types of bracelets is created from a series of rectangular, tube-like links with two springs and four U-shaped clips for every link. A decorative cap usually sits on top of the links. Because of the complex design of these types of bracelets, repair can be tricky. However, with the right tools, you can fix these bracelets easily. Because these bracelets are expandable, the repair can be as simple as removing the broken link or replacing it with a new one.

Instructions

1

Determine how many links you need to replace or repair. Place the knife beneath the flat end cap of the first damaged link. Twist the knife slowly toward the hinge to remove the end cap.

2

Pry open the other end cap using the same procedure. Carefully remove the U-clips with tweezers.

3

Turn the bracelet inside out and open the tabs that hold the top cap in place. Take off the top cap. Count the number of links needing repair. Remove the top cap of the last link; for example, if you want to remove three links, remove the top cap on the fourth link as you did with the first.

4

Open the bottom links using pliers or the knife. Slide out the damaged or extra links that you want to remove.

5

Straighten the links using the pliers. Replace the links that are beyond repair, or leave them out altogether if your bracelet still fits with the missing link. Slide the caps back into place, making sure that the tabs on the bottom links are aligned correctly with the springs on the top caps. Tighten the tabs using the needlenose pliers.