Friday 31 August 2018

How To Make Interesting Paper Beads

By Brenda Howard


Making your own jewelry is really great, and your whole family will enjoy in this interesting activity. Once you start with it, you will probably realize it is highly addictive, and it doesn't require special investments. And, you are free to use all types of materials. Being creative has many good qualities, and can even be therapeutic. Not to mention the fact that you can make really great things.

To start with, almost all materials you can imagine can actually be used for making beautiful and creative jewelry. So, why not make some beautiful paper beads. It sounds strange, but these little things are extremely simple and easy to make, and they are highly attractive, inexpensive and funny. All types of wallpapers, napkins, paper bags and magazines can be used for this purpose.

Of course, you have to gather some papers, wallpapers, magazines, napkins or similar things you will use. You will also need craft knife, scissors, cutting mat, glue, brushes, varnish and sticks. When it comes to sticks, bamboo barbecue sticks or knitting needles will be perfect for this, although, there are some special sticks made for this purpose as well.

The basic design is triangle shaped paper rolled over the stick. The base of the triangle is actually the width of the finished bead, while its length dictates the thickness. It means that, if you cut longer triangle and roll it over the stick, the bead will be thicker. The ratio 1:10 make nice little beads, but it's best to experiment for a while.

First, you have to apply some glue on the inner side of the triangle. Now you may start rolling it. Some people apply the glue on the whole triangle, while others prefer applying small portions on several different places while they are rolling. In any case, you should cover the last few centimeters of the triangle with glue.

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.

The most interesting beads are made using recycled paper bags and similar materials. They have vintage appearance you will positively adore. Silky wallpapers are great for making beautifully designed pieces, and you could also try combining them with actual silk. Chinese Washi and Chiyogami leaves are designed for making beautiful pieces, but also quite expensive, but, why not.

Maybe you would like to use your imagination even more productively. In this case, decorate these triangles before rolling them, using water colors, nail polishes, glitters or whatever. In this case, remember that only the edges will be visible in the end, so paint accordingly. Combine different materials, put them all together and enjoy in your newly discovered creativity.




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