Display strap with 12 steel bells

The cost of restoring steel "jingle" bells always exceeds the intrinsic value of these bells. Steel bells were inexpensive when new, and rust and age-related wear do not improve their value as a collectible. But the sentimental value of these bells can still make restoration worthwhile.

The owner asked me to put her 12 jingle bells on a "pony" style display strap. A pony strap has bells are arranged in two columns, and this configuration can be more appealing way to arrange bells for display in the home. 

The dark brown strap is 19" long including the top buckled fastening and about 4 1/2" wide. The top ring adds another 3" to the overall length. The ring and buckle are solid brass, lightly darkened to blend better with the bell and leather colors. I fastened the bells onto their new strap with aluminum blind ("pop") rivets with the owner's permission.

This particular item is a custom, one-of-a-kind project made for a past client. Items in this Custom Projects section are for information only; they are not available for regular sale.