Making Paper Beads
There are only so many things you can do with paper, right? What about making beads? You can make cute and simple beads using small scraps of paper. This is perfect for the scrapbookers out there who always seem to have little bits and pieces left over. It’s so simple that you can even make these beads with your kids. Craft up some cute beads in red and white for a Valentine’s necklace or make some in pastels for a Spring theme.
You will need paper, a ruler, scissors, and straws. Use regular drinking straws for larger beads to string through yarn or ribbon. If you plan to use thin wire or string, such as fishing line, you can use the small straws used for stirring coffee. You will also need glue, and if you would like a clear varnish to coat the beads in once they are finished.
Start with your scrap paper. Cut small rectangles 1/2 inch wide by 2 inches long. For more variation you could cut a long triangle rather than a rectangle. This can give the bead a more intresting shape. Experiment with various cuts to see what you will get.
Paint a thin layer of the glue on the back of the paper. Roll the paper around itself on the straw. You can do this several time to crate many beads at once. Let the glue dry completely, then cut away the straw from both ends of the bead. The straw should only be inside the paper beads with none sticking out on either side. If you like you can paint on a coat of clear varnish to help seal the paper beads and make them last longer.
This is a very simple craft that can b done with most children from preschool up. As long as the child can cut, glue, and wrap paper they can easily make these beads. This would be a great craft project to do at a birthday party. Of course paper beads arn’t just for kids. You can make one of a kind earrings, beautiful necklaces, or funky bracelets from paper beads.
paper, beads, paper beads, craft
February 6th, 2008 at 3:15 pm
Great tips. Now I know what to do with my paper “leftovers”
I just need to find clear varnish ^^
February 19th, 2008 at 7:02 pm
What a great use for all those bits and pieces of leftover paper! thanks!