In the era of pursuing individuality and quality, a hand-made pure color neutral silicone keychain can not only show unique aesthetics, but also add a unique charm to daily items. The neutral style is simple and atmospheric, suitable for both men and women. The following is a detailed introduction to the materials and specific steps required for production.
Material preparation
Main material
Pure color neutral silicone tube: This is the core part of the keychain. The silicone tube is soft and elastic, and has good wear resistance and corrosion resistance. In terms of color selection, neutral colors are mainly used, such as classic black, white, gray, or calm khaki, military green, etc., which can be selected according to personal preference. The thickness of the silicone tube also has different specifications. The common ones are 3-8 mm in diameter. The thick tube is more atmospheric and the thin tube is more delicate.
Silicone beads: When paired with silicone tubes, it can increase the layering and decorativeness of the keychain. The color of the beads is also mainly neutral, which echoes or contrasts with the color of the silicone tube. Beads come in a variety of shapes, including round, oval, square, etc. The size can be selected according to the thickness of the silicone tube. Generally, the diameter is 5-10 mm.
Connecting accessories
Keychain ring: used to connect the entire silicone string to the key or bag. The materials are metal (silver, gold, matte black, etc.) and plastic. Metal is sturdy and durable, while plastic is lighter and the color can match the silicone tube or beads.
Connecting ring: plays the role of transition and fixing the silicone tube and beads, keychain ring. Common ones include open rings, spring rings, etc. The materials are mostly metal, and the color is coordinated with the overall style.
Auxiliary tools
Scissors: A pair of sharp and easy-to-operate scissors used to cut silicone tubes.
Puncher (optional): If the silicone beads do not have their own holes, or you want to punch holes in the silicone tube for special design, you need to use a puncher. Punchers come in a variety of specifications, and you can choose a suitable punching head according to the size of the beads or silicone tubes.
Hot melt glue gun and glue stick (optional): Hot melt glue gun can provide strong adhesion when fixing some specially designed parts. It is best to choose a neutral color similar to the silicone tube for the glue stick to avoid affecting the overall appearance.
Specific production process
Design concept stage
Before making it, first sketch out the general appearance of the keychain in your mind or on paper. Determine the length of the silicone tube, the arrangement order and number of silicone beads, and whether to add other decorative elements. For example, you can design a simple silicone tube beaded style, or you can knot and bend the silicone tube to form a unique shape. The neutral style focuses on simplicity and atmosphere, and avoids overly complex elements when designing.
Cutting the silicone tube
Pick up the prepared pure color neutral silicone tube and cut it with scissors according to the conceived length. Generally speaking, the length of the entire silicone string is more suitable between 15 and 25 cm, but the specific length can be adjusted according to personal preference and usage needs. Pay attention to uniform force when cutting to avoid burrs or unevenness on the edge of the silicone tube. If you are worried about uneven cutting, you can mark the silicone tube first, and then cut along the mark.
Bead arrangement and stringing
Bead selection: Arrange the selected silicone beads in the designed order. You can combine beads of different colors and shapes, but be careful to maintain the overall neutral style. For example, alternate black round beads with gray square beads, or use all white oval beads to create a simple and layered effect.
Stringing beads: Pass one end of the cut silicone tube through the connecting ring, and then string the beads one by one on the silicone tube with tweezers or fingers. During the stringing process, pay attention to the spacing between the beads, which can be adjusted according to personal preference. If you want a tighter effect, the spacing between the beads can be smaller; if you want a looser and more natural effect, the spacing between the beads can be larger.
Special shape production (optional)
Knotting shape: Knotting at the appropriate position on the silicone tube can increase the three-dimensional sense and fun of the keychain. When tying a knot, first bend the silicone tube into the desired shape, then cross-wrap the silicone tube with your fingers to form a knot. If you are worried that the knot will loosen, you can use a hot melt glue gun to apply a little glue around the knot to fix it.
Bending shape: Heat the silicone tube (you can use a hair dryer or soak it in hot water) to soften it and bend it into a specific shape, such as S-shaped, wavy, etc. After bending, put the silicone tube in cold water to cool and shape it. This shape can add a unique artistic feel to the keychain.
Install the keychain ring
When all the beads are strung on the silicone tube and the special shape (if any) is also made, you can install the keychain ring. Gently pass one end of the keychain ring through the connecting ring, and then force the keychain ring to close. If the keychain ring is made of metal, you may need to use some tools (such as pliers) to assist in closing to ensure that the keychain ring does not fall off easily.
Check and perfect steps
After the production is completed, carefully check the various parts of the keychain. Check whether the beads are firmly strung, whether the silicone tube has any broken or uneven places, and whether the keychain ring is installed correctly. If you find any minor problems, such as loose beads, you can re-string them or use glue to reinforce them; if the silicone tube is uneven, you can trim it slightly with scissors.
Such a pure color neutral silicone keychain full of personality and simple style is completed. You can hang it on your bag or keys, and it will become a unique landscape in your daily life. Moreover, through this DIY production, you have also exercised your hands-on ability and creativity. You might as well try some different designs and color combinations to make more unique keychains!