How to Make Scrap Paper Beads for a Fun Bracelet

I am all about saving scraps from crafting, just ask my mom. I’ve been doing it for years and at this point, I’ve accumulated a large amount of small pieces of fabric, yarns, and paper. Yes, I do save old scraps of paper and there is a good reason to! Paper scraps can make up fun projects and are easy to source. I’ve been wanting to use up my paper scrap supply and try something new while I’m at it. The answer, paper beads.

Paper beads are simple to make and really only require a few materials that most crafters already have in their homes.

You Will Need:

• Paper of your choice—I used old wallpaper and paper from an old notebook
• Scissors
• Mod Podge
• Paintbrush
• Skewer or something to wrap the paper around to form the bead

When selecting the paper for this project, make sure it isn’t too thin. I wouldn’t use tissue paper for example, but it doesn’t take long to figure out what works and doesn’t with this project so try what you want! I think old newspapers, magazines, and scrapbook paper work well for making paper beads. You can also paint the paper before cutting it. I tried this for some of my beads.

For the bracelet, I wanted to keep this project as simple as possible, so I used some scraps of nice ribbon/string that I had hiding in my stash. You can make a stretch bracelet, or even attach clasps. It’s up to you!

Related: Tips for Making Fabulous Fiber Beads

How to Make Paper Beads

I first cut my paper into triangular strips. I recommend using a ruler if you want your beads to be pretty identical in shape and size. Once they were cut, I wrapped a small amount of the paper onto my skewer to begin rolling before dabbing on some Mod Podge. The Mod Podge will help hold the paper together. I found that rolling the paper slowly and away from me helped keep the beads neat. I did struggle to keep the rolls tight, but that could have been the paper that I was using.

Once the paper is rolled onto the skewer, I recommend adding a bit more of the Mod Podge to keep the pointed end from coming up. I also recommend painting the bead with the Mod Podge to ensure that it stays in its shape. My beads did not take long to dry, but make sure they are before moving on to crafting your bracelet.

Making a Paper Bead Bracelet

Constructing the bracelet is a breeze depending on what method you choose. I simply strung my beads onto a string and put knots around them so the beads wouldn’t move around. You can also add spare beads for sparkle. I chose to keep my bracelet simple.

Related: 5 Types of Eco-Friendly Beads

This is a fun craft to try thanks to its customizability. It’s easy and does not require a complex set of skills to make. Beginners and experts alike can use paper beads in upcoming projects or create a bracelet in no time at all. I hope you are able to make use of your extra paper supply like I was with this project.