PROGRAM IN A BOX
TITLE: Paper Bead Jewelry
PROGRAM CATEGORY: Craft
AGES: Teens
LENGTH OF EVENT: 1 hour +
CREATED BY:
ACTIVITY SUMMARY: Teens will make paper beads from discarded
comic books and use them to create jewelry.
MATERIAL LIST:
Non- consumables (included in box):
Comic books
Embroidery floss
Elmer’s glue
Darning needles
Rulers
Pens
Small handheld fans
Tooth picks
Consumables (you supply):
Paint brushes
Jewelry clasps
Earring posts
Assorted beads-optional
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Cut long triangles out of the comic book
pages. Choose colors that you like. The
base of the triangle will be the width of the
bead and the longer the triangle is, the
fatter the bead will become. Try starting
with a 1 inch base. Make them all the same
size or go for a variety.
2. Apply a thin strip of glue over the wrong side of the paper, or the
side you want on the inside of the bead.
3. Starting at the wide end, roll the triangle around itself using a
rounded toothpick.
4. Paint a light layer of glue over the
bead to seal the outside layer of the
rolled paper.
5. Gently slide the bead off the toothpick and allow to dry.
Keep beads on a smooth surface and do not allow them to touch. They
will stick together! Depending on how long you have, you may speed
the drying process along using the small fans. During the drying time
you could have a snack break, listen to music and look through books
to get jewelry ideas.
6. String the beads on embroidery floss using a darning needle. Use
many beads for necklaces or a few for bracelets and earrings.
7. Use the clasps and/or posts to finish the jewelry pieces. After you
tie off the string, you should cut off any excess. You may also want to
apply a small amount of glue to secure the knots.
*Allow your new jewelry to dry completely before wearing and
remember, it’s made out of paper so don’t expose to water!
*Sample jewelry included.