jeudi 30 mai 2019

Learn How To Make Paper Beads

By Matthew Cook


Paper beading is not something that grownups were taught at summer camp but a way to repurpose old items around the house. Those who enjoy thrift store shopping will find that some awesome designs can come from handmade projects. The good news is that learning how to make paper beads is a lot faster now with electronic machines that allow the user to create tens of these in the same time it takes to create one by hand.

Although recycling and sustainable living are taught in most schools, few teachers incorporate upcycling or the repurposing of everyday objects. This is not a trend that comes around every few decades but a way of living. Since most young children are learning about budgeting basics, this could be included in a curriculum about saving money. Most people who habitually look for ways to save say that they were taught the value of money at a young age.

These days, recycled clothes do not have to look like something that came out of a trash bin or made by someone who hates to sew. There are even ways to create new clothing, toys, or decorative items that look as if they belong in a fancy store. Paper beading is one of the most popular ways to create functional crafts for the home or as gifts.

While some may wonder how these may be used outside of jewelry making, there are many projects for crafters any level. Long or wide ones can be glued together to make a coaster or create a decorative picture frame. There are also some retro home decor projects like indoor beaded curtains or holders that can organize writing utensils or other stationery.

This is also a good way to match colors that are hard to find or are out of season. By using acrylic paint on paint strips, anyone can make details in various shades of purple, orange, or even metallic colors. The nice thing about acrylic paint is that it dries faster than other mediums, is easy to mix, and very inexpensive.

One great thing about these projects is that kids can create something that is truly unique. Sometimes old gift wrapping paper or comic books are the perfect media for making friendship bracelets, earrings or pendant necklace. If there is cardstock around, paper beads can be used to make a book marker.

Metallic foil, iridescent paint or ultra high gloss coat paint can also give beads that high fashion look without the crazy price tag. Those with an entrepreneurial spirit and creativity may want to scope out crafting blogs and sites and create something that is not easy to find. Believe it or not, some people can make some nice change selling beads and patterns from the comfort of home or online.

Keeping kids amused can be a job by itself but if one shows artistic or creative talent, there are ways to nourish this without breaking the bank. Parents with idealistic kids should express interest and show praise, even if the result could look better. As children get older, they may show a developed talent that can lead to a new career or lifelong interest.




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