Materials
- Different kinds of paper – scrap paper, plain paper, old wrapping paper, leaflets/magazine
- Pens/paint (optional – to decorate plain paper beads)
- Scissors
- PVA glue
- Paint brushes
- Chopstick/skewers
- String
Before you start
Collect a range of different kinds of paper that can be used and bring it to your session. Encourage your group to do the same. When your session starts, lay all that you’ve collected out for your group to choose from. Prepare enough scissors for everyone in your group.
It may be helpful to watch this video before the session, to have an idea of what you’re doing and what to bring:
What to do
Use the video above to get to grips with the instructions or watch together with your group. Get your group to choose what kind of paper they want to use for their beads. They can choose a few different options. If the 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. Whilst your group is waiting, they can pick out some string to use to tie them together later. You could also play some short games. If they are not dry by the end of your session, you can wrap them in a plastic bag and let them dry at home. Make sure to send your group off with some string, or tell them to pick some up later!
Once the beads are dry, they will be hard and ready to be strung onto wool, string or wire to make a bracelet, necklace or ring.
Get creative and make other things with your beads too such as hanging designs for your home, meeting venue or camp decorations.
Group members could gift someone with your handmade paper jewellery, sell them at a pea fair or individuals can keep to wear themselves.
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.