Did you make paper beads as a kid? I loved cutting up magazines to make my own beads. I was thinking back on it recently, and decided I wanted to re-visit the classic craft. I have a book that I wrecked the binding on that won’t hold its pages anymore, so I’ve been repurposing it for crafts, little by little. I thought it would be fun to turn a book I love into one of my other loves: handmade jewelry. With a bit of Mod Podge, I took paper and made my own beads!
I know, they don’t look like much. Yet. But beads always become something better!
What you will need to make paper beads:
- Paper and scissors
- Mod Podge and brush
- Bamboo skewer
You can experiment with the shape and size you cut your papers. I made mine the length of a book page (what is that, like 8 inches? I think?) and 3/4 inch wide. (Well, I tried 1-1/2 inches first but it wasn’t fat enough.) But test this out for yourself, and see what you like!
They’re simple to make. Brush it with a bit of Mod Podge. Not right at the widest point, but about an inch or so in. You want to focus your Mod Podge toward the narrower end of the triangle.
Now, wrap your triangle round the bamboo skewer. Start it at the widest part. Roll it up, and it will start to take on an oval shape. It’s okay if the Mod Podge starts squeezing out – we’re going to coat it thoroughly at the end anyway.
When it’s all rolled, give it a final coat of Mod Podge to seal it up. Slide it off the skewer, and allow it to dry. Overnight works well!
Using different colors and different lengths of paper will give you different looks – but this is the basic technique you will use. It’s super easy – I used to make these when I was 8 – so feel free to get your kids involved!
When you’re done, you can string them into basic jewelry. Or…
…you can stay tuned to see how I turned them into this wire-wrapped bracelet. ;)
I’ll be sharing that in the next few days! But I’ll give you a chance to make up some beads of your own, first. Have fun!
This is such a cool idea! I love how you’re repurposing an old book into something new. Can’t wait to see how the wire-wrapped bracelet turns out!
What I like most about this article is the combination of detailed instructions and encouragement for creativity. The author goes beyond just instructions and suggests many ways to turn paper beads into unique jewelry.
I wonder how long these papers can last with water?
Love the wrapped bead! I’ve been busy making 5mm “Pandora-style” beads for a few weeks, but this makes me want to switch things up!
I used to LOVE making those beads when I was a kid….I usually used old magazines or gum wrappers!
why bother with messy Modge Podge when a glue stick slapped on the very end works just as well; then some quick varnish afterwards. Voila.
I was just at a local ladies craft group and someone shared this. I am 55 years old and had never seen this before! Chalk it up to my Air Force Brat childhood of moving so much. I am so happy to see it now and absolutely adore your bracelet!