Making paper beads is a great way to make something beautiful and unique out of scrap paper that might otherwise be thrown away (or recycled). What can you make from your paper beads?
What to do
Gather your paper, this can be plain paper, scrap paper, old wrapping paper or leaflets/magazine. If your paper is plain you may want to colour it with pens/paint.
cut your paper into strips. If you want to make your beads different sizes you could make your strips different lengths and widths
Cover the strip in glue from a few centimetres from the bottom. Give the paper a good covering in glue.
Next roll the paper up with your chopstick or skewer
Once you have rolled the paper up slip it off the skewer and repeat until you have enough for your creation.
Leave the beads to dry for a couple of hours. They will be hard and ready to be strung onto wool, string or wire to make a bracelet, necklace or ring.
You could get creative and make other things with your beads too such as hanging designs for your home.
Watch this instruction video to help you make your paper beads
You could gift someone with your handmade paper jewellery or you could wear it yourself.
Share with us what you make, if you share pictures on social media use #DreamBigAtHome
Take it Further
If you enjoyed making paper beads and making the most out of materials that may otherwise be thrown away you could try making Junk Marble Runs to see how else you can impress your household and friends with your recycled creations.
