Making Paper Beads

Beads are one of the oldest forms of jewellery.  Paper beads are easy to make and can be made to any shape or size you want.

Cut sufficient pieces (long thin triangles or strips) of paper to make the number of beads needed for your project.  This can be worked out easily. For a bracelet measure the wrist and add about 1cm. Cut a piece of paper this length. Lay the paper on the table and place the wide end of each bead strip against it.

Roll each paper strip firmly from it’s wide end onto a small wooden stick or used matchstick, then glue the narrow end in place, using a cocktail stick and PVA glue. Slide off the stick and leave to dry.

Beads may simply be varnished, especially when using coloured paper, or painted. Nail varnish makes a good, glossy finish on plain paper or embossed paper.  Many different types of paper can be used for bead making, experiment to find what you like. Thread the beads onto thin elastic, thread or fishing line, or use with head pins in the same way as any other bead.  For durability use two or more coats of varnish, nail varnish or gloss paint.

Different lengths and shapes of paper make different types and sizes of bead. Experiment with lots of different shapes and sizes.

Other papers to try: magazines & comics, pictures from unwanted books, envelopes, labels from food cans, newspapers and junk mail. Shiny paper like that used for catalogues can be used, but may need stronger glue. Instead of the matchsticks beads can be rolled on knitting needles.