Paper beadmaking

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Save paper with interesting prints or colors and turn them into paper bead necklaces and bracelets. Best of all, this project doesn’t cost a dime.

Instructions:

1. Gather together some paper scraps to work with (you could evenuse this issue of Chicago Parent when you’re done with it).
2. Cut long triangles from the paper scraps, measuring about ½ to1½ inches wide and 6 to 9 inches long. If you want the beads to beuniform in size, use a ruler to measure the edges and cut straightlines (but it is also nice to have beads in a variety of sizes, soprecision is not necessary).To make the cutting easier for youngerchildren, make a template and trace it onto the paper so they cancut the triangles out with child-safe scissors.
3. Once you have cut out a good selection of paper triangles,cover the back side of a triangle with glue. Be sure to cover theentire triangle with the glue so it adheres securely. A glue stickworks best for this job.
4. Place a regular size drinking straw or wooden dowel on thetriangle’s short side and wrap the paper completely around itself.If using a straw, trim it at both ends of the rolled paper to formyour bead. If using a wooden dowel, remove it from the inside ofthe bead before the glue begins to stick to it.
5. Continue the rolling process until you have enough beads foryour project. Let the beads dry completely and secure any edgesthat may have come unglued. String the finished beads onto yarn,string or clear wire to make bracelets or necklaces.

Possible variations: Once you have the basic steps
down, you can get creative. Vary the sizes of your triangles to
make beads of different sizes. Make your own custom beads by
decorating the paper with stamps or other original artwork. Mix
store-bought beads in with your paper beads to create some visual
interest. For a more professional look, cover your paper beads with
paper glaze or Mod Podge to create a hard, glossy finish and make
them more durable (follow the directions on these products to
achieve the right results). Paper beads can also be used to make
items such as garlands to decorate a Christmas tree.

Materials:

• Assortment of paper scraps (wrapping paper, junk mail,wallpaper, colored craft paper, magazine pictures,
• newspapers, etc.)
• Pencils
• Ruler
• Scissors (younger children should use child-safe scissors)
• Glue sticks
• Drinking straws or wooden dowels
• String, yarn or clear wire
• Optional: paper glaze, Mod Podge, store-bought beads, artsupplies for decorating the craft paper