What Is a Rave Bracelet?
- Rave bracelets, kandi, are usually brightly colored. They are made with elements of neon, glow-in-the-dark and clear colors. Since each is handmade as an expression of identity, the varieties in color are numerous. Some people prefer making patterns. You will see rainbow-themed kandi, with progressing shades of the rainbow repeated throughout the design. You will see bracelets with specific alternating colors and types. For instance, you might see a rave bracelet with the repetition of a solid red color, followed by frosty blue, followed by glow-in-the-dark green.
- Pony beads are the foundation of kandi. Some bracelets are made entirely of pony beads. They are sold in bulk bags, allowing you to make dozens of personalized bracelets with each bag. Pony beads are typically donut-shaped and come in glittery, neon, primary and darker tones. They are glow-in-the-dark, frosted and clear. Glow-in-the-dark beads allow your bracelet to be seen in the darkness of the party. You can also get pony beads in special shapes like hearts and stars, which are quite popular in the rave scene.
- Pony beads are the starting point to a rave bracelet, but plastic charms are infrequent additions. A bracelet might include such adornments as plastic bears, skulls, cats, penguins, happy faces or decorative beads. Charms of popular cartoon characters are sometimes attached to the bracelet. This part of the bracelet is an opportunity for expression and to let other ravers know your personal interests. For example, if you like superheroes, attach a character charm to your bracelet. The contents of your kandi might spur conversations with strangers.
- Letters are another option for a plain pony bead bracelet. Kandi often includes individual letter beads that spell out words. A raver with a nickname sometimes sports it on a bracelet. Some bracelets have emotions, feelings and actions displayed on them in letters. Some words you might see on a rave bracelet include "Love," "Happiness," "Energy," "Dance" and "PLUR," the rave mantra meaning peace, love, unity and respect. As with the charms and the entire bracelet-making process, the words formed on the bracelets are an opportunity for self-expression.