How I got started making paper bead jewelry

When people find out I make beads out of paper, they often ask me how I got started. A valid question!

I originally started making paper beads because I felt like I was tossing too many catalogues into the recycle bin, without ever knowing if they were actually being recycled. I figured there had to be SOMETHING I could learn how to make with the paper, so I did some quick Googling and stumbled onto paper beads. It took me a few tries to get the hang of it, but I quickly realized that as tedious as the process is, I really enjoy it!

The process starts with a magazine, catalogue, paper calendar, poster, or a similar paper product. I cut the pages out, then cut each page into triangular strips. Once the strips are cut, I'll take a single strip and roll it on a toothpick to shape it. I coat it with Mod Podge, an adhesive, and stick the toothpick in a foam block so it will stand up and not touch anything while it dries. I allow the beads to dry for a day or two before coating them with polycrylic. Both the Mod Podge and the polycrylic are applied using a very small paintbrush, so the process can take a while! The polycrylic will dry a few days as well, before I apply a second coat. The polycrylic makes the beads sturdy and shiny! Once the second coat is dry, I'll remove the beads from the toothpicks and put them in a storage case until I'm ready to make necklaces or earrings. It's a long process, but the result is worth it! 

You can view my jewelry @rebellepower on Instagram or shop www.rebellepower.com. 

Thanks for stopping by!

Hannah