If you’ve just come home from a festival and want to save your wristband as a keepsake, you’re probably wondering how to remove it without reaching for the scissors. Whether it’s for sentimental value or you’re trying to avoid accidentally cutting your wrist, here’s how to safely take off a festival wristband without using scissors.
Why you might want to keep your wristband intact
Festival wristbands are more than just entry passes – they’re little mementos of unforgettable weekends filled with music, fun and freedom. Some people collect them, some turn them into DIY art, and others just like to wear them a little longer to hang onto the memories. Removing them carefully means you can keep yours as a souvenir.
1. The plastic bag method
One of the most popular ways to remove a wristband – especially those with sliding barrel clasps – is with a plastic bag. Here’s how:
What you need:
- A small plastic bag (like a sandwich bag)
- A bit of patience!
Steps:
- Slide your hand into the plastic bag so the bag is covering your wrist and the band.
- Use your other hand to grip the clasp and pull it gently while twisting – the plastic bag reduces friction and helps the band slide more easily.
- Keep sliding the clasp until the band loosens enough to slide off your wrist.
This works best on cloth wristbands with a barrel-type tightening mechanism.
2. The twist and slide technique
Some festival wristbands can be carefully worked off without any tools:
- Start by rotating the wristband around your wrist a few times to loosen it slightly.
- Pull the skin on your hand tight (making your wrist as small as possible).
- Slowly and gently start to wiggle the wristband off. It might take a few minutes – don’t rush it.
This only works if the band wasn’t tightened too snugly in the first place.
3. The bobby pin hack
If your wristband has a small locking clasp, a bobby pin might do the trick:
- Slide the bobby pin into the clasp to try and lift the locking teeth inside.
- While keeping pressure on the teeth with the pin, gently pull the band in the opposite direction.
- This may take some practice and a gentle touch – don’t force it!
Be careful not to damage the band or poke yourself during this method.
What if it won’t budge?
Some wristbands are designed to be tamper-proof, meaning they won’t come off without being cut. If you’ve tried everything and it still won’t budge, consider carefully cutting the cord underneath the clasp (rather than the band itself) so you can keep most of the wristband intact for display.
Fun ideas for your old wristbands
Once you’ve removed your festival wristband, here are a few ways to give it new life:
- Add it to a memory box or shadow frame.
- Sew it onto a tote bag, jacket or denim shorts.
- Create a keyring or friendship bracelet-style accessory.
If you love festivals as much as I do, check out my post on 5 essential UK festival experiences on my bucket list – you might find your next adventure there.
