Upcycle Old Bike Tires Into Belts

DIY Upcycled Bicycle Tire Belts Intro

In honor of Earth Day, I thought I’d share one of my favorite projects with you guys.  I upcycled some old bike tires by turning them into belts.  Unfortunately, I did this a while ago, so I can’t remember where I got the original info from.  I do know that I researched quite a bit and pulled from multiple sources.

Anyway, it’s not all that hard…and the belts are actually pretty cool.  It’s kind of a neat way for an ADHDer (or anyone, really) to celebrate Earth Day.

So, here goes…in eight easy steps.

DIY Upcycled Bicycle Tire Belts Banner

Step 1: Locate an old tire and wash it with soap and water.

DIY Upcycled Bicycle Tire Belts Step 1

Consider the size of your belt loops and the tread when you pick the tire.

 

Step 2: Use another belt as a guide to determine your belt length.

DIY Upcycled Bicycle Tire Belts Step 2

Add 2.5 – 3 inches to the total length, so you can attach the buckle.

 

Step 3: Cut tire to desired length and then trim it to your desired width.

DIY Upcycled Bicycle Tire Belts Step 3

Use knobs as a guide for more precise cutting.

 

Step 4: Punch a hole in the belt and then thread the buckle through.

DIY Upcycled Bicycle Tire Belts Step 4

A rotary hole punch makes this really easy.

 

Step 5: Punch 2 holes in the belt and insert a rivet into each.

DIY Upcycled Bicycle Tire Belts Step 5

Place the holes close to the actual buckle.

 

Step 6: Set the rivets (one at a time) to secure the buckle to the belt.

DIY Upcycled Bicycle Tire Belts Step 6

Use a hammer with the rivet setter if you don’t have a mallet.

 

Step 7: Lay the “guide” belt on the tire belt.  Use a hammer and nail to mark your sizing holes.

DIY Upcycled Bicycle Tire Belts Step 7

A permanent marker works, depending on the tire. Use trial and error.

 

Step 8: Punch holes in the belt to accommodate a variety of sizes.

DIY Upcycled Bicycle Tire Belts Step 8

Again – a rotary hole punch makes this really easy.

 

Final Product: Your belt(s) is(are) ready to wear!

DIY Upcycled Bicycle Tire Belts Example

 

Seriously, guys, I was pretty excited about how these turned out…and I’ve gotten a lot of compliments when wearing them.  Happy Earth Day, guys!

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