Make Your Own Friendship Bracelets
Making friendship bracelets is a classic bead craft that kids of all ages can enjoy. It’s a fun and creative way for kids to express their individuality and create something special for their friends. To make friendship bracelets, you’ll need some colorful beads, elastic cord, and a pair of scissors.
Start by cutting a piece of elastic cord that is long enough to fit around a child’s wrist. Tie a knot at one end of the cord to create a loop. Thread beads onto the cord, alternating colors and patterns to create a unique design.
Once all the beads are threaded onto the cord, tie a knot at the other end to secure the beads in place. Trim any excess cord, and the bracelet is ready to be worn or gifted to a friend. Kids can make multiple bracelets to share with all their friends or create matching sets for themselves and their besties.
Create a Beaded Keychain
Keychains are a practical and fun craft to make with beads. Kids can create personalized keychains for themselves or as gifts for family and friends. To make a beaded keychain, you’ll need a large bead with a hole in the middle, a small jump ring, a keychain ring, and some colorful beads.
Start by threading the keychain ring onto the jump ring. Next, thread the large center bead onto the jump ring, followed by the smaller beads. Kids can choose any combination of colors and patterns for their design.
Once all the beads are threaded onto the jump ring, close the jump ring to secure the beads in place. The keychain is now ready to attach to a set of keys or a backpack. Kids can make multiple keychains to match different accessories and show off their creativity.
Design a Beaded Bookmark
Encourage reading and creativity by making beaded bookmarks with kids. This craft is not only fun but also practical, as it helps kids keep track of their progress in their favorite books. To make a beaded bookmark, you’ll need some colorful beads, elastic cord, and a bookmark template.
Start by cutting a piece of elastic cord that is slightly longer than the desired length of the bookmark. Thread beads onto the cord, creating a unique pattern or design. Once all the beads are threaded, tie a knot at each end of the cord to secure the beads in place.
To add the bookmark template, fold a piece of sturdy cardstock in half. Place the elastic cord between the folded cardstock, making sure the beaded section hangs out. Glue the cardstock together to secure the bookmark template and trim any excess cord.
Kids can make multiple beaded bookmarks to keep or give to friends and family. The bookmarks can be customized with different colors and bead patterns to match the recipient’s preferences.
Use Beads to Make a Wind Chime
Turn beads into a beautiful wind chime that can bring joy to any outdoor space. Making a beaded wind chime is a more involved craft, making it suitable for older kids or with adult supervision. To make a beaded wind chime, you’ll need a metal hoop, fishing line, colorful beads, and a large bell.
Start by cutting several lengths of fishing line, each one slightly longer than the other. Thread beads onto the fishing lines, leaving enough space at the top to secure it to the metal hoop. Repeat this process with all the fishing lines and beads.
Once all the beaded lines are ready, tie them to the metal hoop, spacing them out evenly around the circle. Attach a large bell to the center of the hoop using another piece of fishing line. Hang the wind chime in an outdoor area where it can catch the wind and create beautiful sounds.
Personalize the wind chime by choosing beads in specific colors or patterns that reflect the child’s personality or the theme of the outdoor space.
Make a Beaded Picture Frame
Transform a plain picture frame into a work of art with colorful beads. This craft allows kids to practice their fine motor skills while creating a unique decoration for their bedroom or a special gift for a loved one. To make a beaded picture frame, you’ll need a plain wooden or plastic frame, craft glue, colorful beads, and a paintbrush.
Start by applying a thin layer of craft glue to a small section of the frame. Place beads onto the glue, creating a pattern or design. Continue adding glue and beads to different sections of the frame until it is fully covered with beads.
Allow the glue to dry completely before handling the picture frame. Kids can use different bead sizes, shapes, and colors to create a truly personalized and eye-catching design.
Once the glue is dry, you can add a photo to the frame and display it proudly on a shelf or wall. The beaded picture frame can also make a thoughtful gift for grandparents or other family members.
