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Design Your Own Beautiful Paper Beads

By Brenda Howard


If you are already experienced in making your jewelry, maybe you could consider making it using some other materials. Some you already have in your home, and they can be put in a good use. The good thing about all this is that it might become a great hobby for all your family members as well. This activity is fulfilling, creative and highly addictive, so, everybody loves it.

You can use all types of materials, including clay, plastic, glass or stone, or even paper. The last one is really interesting, because it can also be considered as recycling. You probably have all sorts of magazines, paper bags and similar things you can use for making beautiful paper beads. So, here are some ideas you might use to start with.

Once you find the material you want to use, you will also need a pair of scissors, maybe a craft knife, varnish, glue, soft brushes for applying glue and varnish, ruler and, of course, some type of a mat you will cut on. As a rolling base, you may use knitting needles, bamboo sticks, or even special sticks designed especially for this purpose, it's up to you.

The basic principle is to cut one long triangle and roll it around the stick. The base of the triangle will be the width of your finished bead, and the longer the triangle is, the thicker your bead will be. Experiment with different lengths first, to get the idea. Once you choose the proper shape, start with your work.

First, apply some glue on the inner side. Some put glue on the entire length, some apply only on the end part, but it is probably the best option to apply glue on a few places during your rolling. The final few centimeters should be covered with glue in any case, to make the bead firm.

Once you get the general idea with your first few triangles, you may also experiment with slightly different shapes. The beads don't have to be symmetrical, and everything is allowed. Try rolling up two overlapping triangles together, just to see what can be made this way. After that, simply let the bead dry, and apply several coats of varnish on it. More coats make thicker, firmer and shinier beads.

Using recycled paper bags is something you just shouldn't miss. These vintage looking beads are especially attractive. There are no limits, you could also use wallpapers, decorative packages, grocery bags, whatever you like. In fact, there are a few types of special Chinese papers designed for this, such as Chiyogami and Washi.

Of course, you could be even more creative, and design your own material. For example, you could use water colors or nail polish or anything you can think of. Just remember you should apply color only on outer edges of your triangle, because only those parts will be finally visible. You could also use colorful napkins, and, in this case, get really amazing designs simply and easily. In any case, you will certainly enjoy in this lovely activity.




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