Pewter Bracelet Guide

Pewter Bracelet Guide – Reindeer Leather, Pewter Wire & Nordic Craftsmanship

Pewter bracelets are a distinctive craft from northern Scandinavia, combining braided pewter wire with soft leather and details made from natural materials. At Arctic Collection, this craft has been part of our family tradition since 1981.

In this guide, you can learn more about the history of pewter bracelets, the materials we use, how our bracelets are made, and what to consider when choosing a design and size.

What Is a Pewter Bracelet?

A pewter bracelet is traditionally made by braiding fine strands of pewter wire into different patterns and sewing the braid onto leather. The combination of silver-coloured pewter wire and soft leather gives the bracelet its distinctive appearance.

The craft has a long tradition in northern Scandinavia and today comes in many different styles – from narrow, simple braids to wider and more detailed designs.

At Arctic Collection, we combine traditional materials and techniques with our own designs inspired by the nature and way of life in the North.

A Family Tradition Since 1981

The story of our pewter bracelets began in 1981, when Birgitta made her first bracelet. What started as an interest in traditional craftsmanship gradually developed, and the knowledge was later passed on within the family.

In 2005, the next generation, Frida and Jiri, began working with the pewter bracelets. Since then, the techniques, knowledge of the materials and our approach to the craft have continued to develop.

Today, pewter bracelets are at the heart of Arctic Collection, with a wide range of designs, widths and colours.

How Our Pewter Bracelets Are Made

Making a pewter bracelet involves several stages. The pewter wire is braided by hand into different patterns and then carefully sewn onto the leather. The bracelet is shaped and finished with a leather loop and button.

Much of the work is done by hand, so small variations are a natural part of the craftsmanship and make each bracelet individual.

Natural Materials with Individual Character

Materials vary between our different designs, but reindeer leather, pewter wire and reindeer antler are recurring elements throughout the collection.

Vegetable-Tanned Reindeer Leather

Many of our designs are made using soft, vegetable-tanned reindeer leather. The leather is supple and becomes softer with wear.

As leather is a natural material, its texture and colour may vary slightly from one bracelet to another.

Hand-Braided Pewter Wire with Silver

The pewter wire used in our bracelets is alloyed with 4% silver. The wire is braided by hand into different patterns depending on the design.

Some designs also combine pewter wire with genuine sterling silver beads or other details.

Genuine Reindeer Antler Buttons

Many of our pewter bracelets are finished with a genuine reindeer antler button. As reindeer antler is a natural material, every button has its own colour, texture and character.

Inspired by the Nature of Arctic Sweden

The mountains, forests, snow, Northern Lights, coastline and dramatic changing seasons of Arctic Sweden are a constant source of inspiration for our collections.

You can see this reflected in names such as Frost, Snow, Aurora, Tundra, Taiga and Polaris.

Our aim is not simply to recreate what already exists, but to allow the traditional craft to evolve through new braiding techniques, colours and designs while retaining a timeless character.

How Do I Choose a Pewter Bracelet?

Start by considering the width and style you prefer.

A narrow bracelet has a more subtle look and is easy to combine with other bracelets and jewellery. Our wider designs have a stronger presence and often become more of a statement piece on the wrist.

You can also choose between different colours of reindeer leather and different braiding styles. Some designs are classic and minimalist, while others feature sterling silver beads or more intricate braiding.

How Do I Choose the Right Size?

Measure your wrist snugly where you would like to wear the bracelet and normally add approximately 1.5 cm.

For example, if your wrist measures 17 cm, a bracelet measuring approximately 18.5 cm will usually be a good fit.

For wider designs, you may prefer to add a few extra millimetres for comfort.

The leather loop is not included in the stated bracelet length.

Pewter Bracelets for Women and Men

Our pewter bracelets are essentially unisex. The design, width, colour and type of braid are what give each bracelet its individual character.

Some people prefer narrow, detailed designs, while others prefer wider bracelets with more leather and bolder braiding.

Rather than focusing on whether a bracelet is categorised for women or men, we recommend choosing the design and style that appeals to you.

How Do I Care for a Pewter Bracelet?

Reindeer leather is a natural material and is best kept relatively dry. We therefore recommend removing your bracelet before showering, bathing or using a sauna, and avoiding prolonged contact with water.

Over time, the leather will become softer and develop a natural patina. This is part of the natural ageing process of a handmade bracelet made from genuine leather.

Arctic Collection in Gammelstad, Arctic Sweden

Arctic Collection is based in Gammelstad Church Town, just outside Luleå in Arctic Sweden.

Gammelstad Church Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Sweden's largest and best-preserved church town. This is where you will find our shop and workshop.

If you are visiting Gammelstad, Luleå or Swedish Lapland, you are very welcome to visit us, discover our pewter bracelets in person, try different designs and find the right size.

Discover Our Pewter Bracelets

Today, Arctic Collection offers a wide selection of pewter bracelets – from classic designs made with reindeer leather and pewter wire to contemporary braids featuring sterling silver and other details.

Each design has its own character, but the entire collection shares the same foundations: craftsmanship, natural materials and inspiration from the North.